Sensate Focus Training
Sensate Focus Training - Related Videos
11:32
Perspectives on Sensation and Perception
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2023
Source: Laboratory of Jonathan Flombaum—Johns Hopkins University The study of sensation—how signals are transduced from sensory organs, like the eyes—and perception—how the brain interprets these messages—has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, when great strides were made in understanding the properties of light and how they relate to the visual system. Importantly, such sensory and perceptual processes determine what we see, feel, taste, and hear in our surroundings. However, many...
08:39
Operant Sensation Seeking in the Mouse
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Cited by 27 •
2010
In this protocol we describe a method of operant learning using sensory stimuli as a reinforcer in the mouse. It requires no prior training or food restriction, and it allows the study of motivated behavior without the use of a pharmacological or natural reinforcer such as food.
06:33
Method for Simultaneous fMRI/EEG Data Collection during a Focused Attention Suggestion for Differential Thermal Sensation
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Cited by 4 •
2014
We present a protocol for concurrent collection of EEG/fMRI data, and synchronized MR clock signal recording. We demonstrate this method using a unique paradigm whereby subjects receive ‘cold glove’ instructions during scanning, and EEG/fMRI data are recorded along with hand temperature measurements both before and after hypnotic induction.
07:54
Design, Fabrication, and Administration of the Hand Active Sensation Test (HASTe)
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Cited by 1 •
2015
The Hand Active Sensation Test (HASTe) is a valid and reliable measure of haptic performance, which has been used successfully to identify impaired haptic touch in individuals with stroke. The purpose of this paper is to describe the design, fabrication and administration of the HASTe.
01:21
Sensation
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2024
Sensory receptors are specialized neurons that respond to specific types of external stimuli, initiating the process known as sensation. This occurs when sensory input, such as light entering the eye, is detected by these receptors, causing chemical changes in the cells of the retina. These cells then convert the sensory stimulus into action potentials that are transmitted to the central nervous system, a process termed transduction. Absolute thresholds can quantify the sensitivity of sensory...
FAQs
The central mechanism is attentional refocusing: partners concentrate on physical sensations rather than monitoring whether arousal, erection, orgasm, or intercourse will occur. Removing that performance task can make touch less evaluative and more exploratory. In clinical work, this shift helps identify how anxiety and self-monitoring affect comfort and sexual response while giving partners a shared experience to discuss.
Temporarily removing intercourse and performance goals reduces pressure to produce a particular sexual outcome. This creates room for partners to notice comfort, anxiety, and bodily responses without treating each encounter as a test. The approach therefore addresses the evaluative context surrounding sexual difficulties, rather than focusing only on whether a specific function occurs.
Gradual progression allows intimate contact to expand as anxiety decreases and confidence develops. Beginning with less demanding forms of touch establishes a manageable starting point, while later stages can introduce greater intimacy. This stepwise structure helps partners evaluate their responses at each stage and prevents the entire process from becoming tied to one high-pressure sexual goal.
Because partners attend closely to sensation and comfort, the exercises create opportunities to communicate about what feels acceptable and how each person is responding. The shared structure can make discussion more collaborative than performance-focused. In medicine and sex therapy, this communication component complements attention to body awareness and helps partners participate actively in addressing sexual concerns.
A typical sequence begins with guided, nonsexual touching while partners avoid intercourse and performance expectations. As the partners become more comfortable, the exercises progress toward more intimate contact. Clinicians may pair this sequence with education and communication exercises, using the partners’ experiences at each stage to guide discussion and evaluate changes in comfort or sexual function.
Clinicians may use the technique when sexual concerns include arousal difficulties, pain, orgasm problems, or performance anxiety. Its structured exercises offer a practical way to address the relational and attentional context of these concerns. It can be used alongside education and communication exercises, rather than serving as the only component of care.
The process provides information about changes in body awareness, comfort, anxiety, confidence, communication, and sexual function. Clinicians can consider how responses shift as contact becomes more intimate and performance pressure is reduced. These observations help clarify whether difficulties are linked to the sensory experience, the interaction between partners, or expectations surrounding sexual performance.