Psychosocial aspects of andrologic disease.
This article reviews the research relating to the psychosocial aspects of andrologic disease, focusing on infertility, hypospadias, and erectile dysfunction because these diseases draw out the key areas of psychosocial interest. This is the case with the development of men who have andrologic disease and the problems they face developing relationships. Psychosocial issues are often about the perceptions that men and women have regarding androgenic disorders rather than the disorder itself. Psychological problems include anxiety, depression, and social phobias. In more serious cases, psychological problems can affect masculinity, selfhood, and identity. Clinical psychologists and other psychotherapists can offer some assistance regarding these perceptions, but where there are problems relating to personality and coping styles, these may be more difficult to overcome. More research is required to understand the specific psychosocial consequences of androgenic disorders.
Hunt
Nigel
N
Institute of Work, Health, and Organisations, University of Nottingham, University Boulevard, Nottingham, NG7 2RQ, United Kingdom. nigel.hunt@nottingham.ac.uk
McHale
Sue
S
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D003376:Counseling; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007021:Hypospadias / Q000523:psychology*; D007248:Infertility, Male / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D012917:Social Adjustment; D013315:Stress, Psychological