Behavioral Treatment for a Female Engaging in Autoerotic Asphyxiation
- ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Denise M. Martz Ph.D., Professor and Assistant Chair (Creator)
- Institution
- Appalachian State University (ASU )
- Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Abstract: Once thought to be a phenomenon only practiced by men, autoerotic asphyxiation,
a form of sexual masochism that is life-threatening, has been documented in women.
This case study presents a 22-year-old college female with comorbid depression and
avoidant personality disorder complaining of the use of autoerotic asphyxiation during
masturbation. This female was a virgin and reported that asphyxiation by use of a ligature
had always been used since puberty during masturbation and was necessary for her to
obtain orgasm. This behavior was conceptualized within an obsessive-compulsive cycle.
Covert systematic desensitization using her written sexual fantasy across 10 psychotherapy
sessions was able to neutralize the power of the fantasy to elicit orgasm. Subsequent behavioral deterrents and experimentation with a vibrator enabled this female to reach orgasm
without engaging in asphyxiation. Following this success, psychotherapy continued to
focus on managing her depression and avoidance tendencies.
Behavioral Treatment for a Female Engaging in Autoerotic Asphyxiation
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Created on 1/17/2012
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Martz, D. (2003). Behavioral treatment for a female engaging in autoerotic asphyxiation. Clinical Case Studies, 2(3): 236-242. (July 2003) Published by Sage (ISSN: 1534-6501). doi:10.1177/1534650103002003006
- Language: English
- Date: 2003