Anxiety increases sexual arousal

Authors

David H. Barlow, State University of New York AlbanyFollow
David K. Sakheim, State University of New York Albany
J. Gayle Beck, State University of New York AlbanyFollow

Abstract

12 21-30 yr old males who were trained to expect tolerance-level electric shocks viewed an erotic film under 3 counterbalanced conditions. In 1 condition, Ss viewed the erotic film in conjunction with a signal light indicating threat of shock. A 2nd light indicated threat of shock if Ss did not achieve an erection of a certain size. A 3rd light indicated no shock. Both anxiety-inducing shock-threat conditions increased penile size response over and above the no-shock-threat condition. Furthermore, shock threat contingent on size of erection produced more arousal than noncontingent-shock threat. (22 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1983 American Psychological Association.

Publication Title

Journal of Abnormal Psychology

Recommended Citation

Barlow, D., Sakheim, D., & Beck, J. (1983). Anxiety increases sexual arousal. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 92 (1), 49-54. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-843X.92.1.49