Understanding Desire & Arousal After Cancer

Brakes (Inhibitors)

  • Worries about being able to get aroused
  • Things must be “just right” to get aroused
  • Uncertainties about how my partner feels about me
  • Worried about taking too long to become aroused
  • Feeling too shy or reserved about sexual intimacy

Accelerators (Excitors)

  • Observing partner doing something illustrating their competence/talents, increases arousal
  • Thinking about someone I find sexually attractive, or fantasizing about sex
  • Particular scents can be evocative
  • Thinking about sex when bored

Explanation of Dual Control Model: Brakes & Accelerators

(from Sexual Temperament Questionnaire, Nagoski)

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