Desire: Information for men with a cancer history

Brakes (Inhibitors)

  • Worries about being able to get aroused, performance anxiety
  • Things must be “just right” to get aroused
  • Uncertainties about how my partner feels about me
  • Worried about taking too long to become aroused

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
  • Emotional safety, comfort, privacy

Explanation of Dual Control Model: Brakes & Accelerators

(from Sexual Temperament Questionnaire, Nagoski)