Communication in Couples

Introduction

The topic I will address in this video is sometimes seen as controversial. However, this perception often arises more from poor moral interpretation than from its intrinsic relevance. Our focus today will be comprehensive, entertaining, and moderate in graphic terms, although I can't overlook that its effectiveness lies in the precision with which its methods are applied. As healthcare professionals, we are obligated to be direct and precise, but we also consider that certain topics can be misinterpreted; therefore, we will exercise special care in communication.

The Importance of Communication in the Couple.

Couple relationships form the basis of our family lives, and communication is essential for their long-term success. Unfortunately, when there are deficiencies in communication, problems arise that affect not only the couple but also the family as a whole. Experts in the field have developed specific protocols, a series of ordered tasks, to mitigate these problems.

Sensory Focus: An Approach to Intimacy.

One of these techniques is "sensory focus," devised by renowned sexologists William Masters and Virginia Johnson. This method aims to improve intimacy and communication in the couple and is divided into three phases.

Phase 1: Basic Connection

Imagine that we are in a theater. By focusing our attention on the scene, we temporarily forget our daily concerns. Similarly, the first phase of sensory focus invites us to focus on touching less tense areas of our bodies, discovering new sensations, and improving communication in the process.

Phase 2: Advanced Connection

After feeling comfortable with the initial phase, we move on to the second, which includes more delicate areas but always within the paradigm of exploration and communication.

Phase 3: Deep Connection

The last phase allows us to incorporate everything we have learned into an experience that strengthens the emotional and physical bond between the couple. Here, the goal remains communication and exploration, not necessarily reaching a specific culmination.

Efficiency and Discipline.

The effectiveness of these methods is directly proportional to the discipline with which they are practiced and the follow-up that a therapist carries out in each consultation.

Differentiated Problems and Treatments

It is important to differentiate between functional problems, which are more of a psychological nature and are usually treatable with these techniques, and organic problems which require a more specialized medical approach.

Conclusion.

Sensory focus is a highly effective way to improve intimacy and communication in the couple. It is a tool that, when used properly and with the guidance of a professional, can offer significant results.

More in detail:

"Sensory focus" is a technique developed by sexologists William Masters and Virginia Johnson, famous for their research in the field of human sexuality. This method is designed to improve sexual intimacy and address certain sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or anorgasmia. It is generally divided into two types or phases: Sensory Focus Type 1 and Sensory Focus Type 2.

Sensory Focus Type 1

In this phase, the idea is to focus entirely on tactile sensations without the pressure of performing a specific sexual activity like penetration. Typically, a couple takes turns caressing each other's entire body, avoiding the genital and breast areas. This allows each person to become more familiar with their body and their partner's body, which can help alleviate anxiety and improve communication about what each finds pleasurable.

Sensory Focus Type 2

In the second phase, caresses extend to the genital and breast areas. The intent remains the same: to focus on sensations rather than achieving a specific goal like orgasm. However, in this phase, more direct sexual stimulation is allowed. Again, this serves to reduce anxiety associated with sexual performance and can help the couple better understand what type of touch and stimulation they find most satisfying.

The sensory focus method is often used as part of broader sexual therapy and can be especially useful for people experiencing sexual problems related to anxiety or lack of effective communication.

It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or qualified sexual therapist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.