Problem:
To become a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist, you must pass a national licensure exam. Each course you take prepares you to successfully pass this exam. Below is an example of a question related to human sexuality that could show up in some form on your exam in the future. For this discussion thread, read through the question as if you are taking the exam and notice your first answer you would give. Then, notice the correct answer and the rationale for the answer. In the discussion thread, comment on what this experience was like for you, and how the material you are learning in this course can help prepare for you for the exam.
Question: A couple in their 40s is seeking therapy to save their marriage. Recently, the husband has lost interest in sex and has been unable to maintain an erection. His wife complains that he has been irritable and angry for months. She is convinced that he no longer finds her attractive and that he is having an affair. She is tearful and anxious. They both report that they have been fighting a lot. Recently, the husband had a medical check-up and was reported to be in good health except for his long-standing hypertension. As a precautionary measure, his doctor increased his drug dosage. Regarding the husband's erectile dysfunction, you would: Need Assignment Help?
Select one:
- Refer them back to the husband's doctor.
- Assign them behavioral tasks such as sensate focus.
- Teach the couple active listening and "I" messages.
- Inform them that drugs for hypertension can cause erectile dysfunction and refer the husband back to his doctor.
Answer A is correct: Because of the increase in medication, a referral to the prescribing doctor is prudent. The husband's physician would determine if there is an organic basis for his failure to maintain an erection. This choice is premature, since a referral to a doctor would have to occur first (B). While marital therapy seems appropriate for this couple, you would need to rule out an organic problem before turning your attention to the psychological issues (C). Informing them about drugs is out of your scope of practice; his doctor should handle this issue (D).
The correct answer is: Refer them back to the husband's doctor.