Marital/family developmental theory as a context for understanding and treating inhibited sexual desire.

In this article, the author offers a theoretically based, heuristic model for understanding the etiology and maintenance of inhibited sexual desire (ISD) within the context of a developing relationship system. Empirical studies of premarital relationship formation, progression and maintenance form the basis of this discussion. The interplay of intrapersonal and interactional dynamics is highlighted. Emphasis is placed upon understanding ISD according to social exchange formulations of premarital and marital behavior. Particular attention is given to the interactants' nonverbalized rules and implicitly held expectations for the sexual exchange process. Guidelines for assessment are offered and implications for intervention are drawn.