Sensate focus: a critical literature review

Abstract

ABSTRACTMasters and Johnson's Sensate Focus techniques have informed the sex therapy field for over four decades. However, two problems continue to plague the understanding and application of these techniques. First, clear and detailed information about the underlying concepts, original intent, and specific implementation associated with Sensate Focus has been limited primarily to private presentations within professional gatherings. Controversies and difficulties with interpretations among the general sexological community have resulted. Second, the application of Sensate Focus to diverse populations, and efficacy research on these interventions, has been limited. In addition to surveying the literature, this article addresses the primary confusions about the original concepts and technical applications of Sensate Focus. It also reviews the efficacy of this approach with populations other than the physically able-bodied, well-educated, heterosexual couples investigated by Masters and Johnson. Finally, this article concludes with an emphasis on the need for additional, detailed research and publication on the conceptual intention, practical application, and efficacy results of Sensate Focus across different population groups. This research would especially benefit sexually marginalized populations whose needs are not adequately addressed in current sexological literature and practice.