Eros under patriarchy: A study of Basson’s ‘sexual response model’

Abstract

ABSTRACT Basson’s ‘sexual response model’ may have been developed to more accurately represent women’s sexual interests and behaviour – to challenge previous sexual desire models based on men’s sexuality – but in sex therapy practice, it appears to sanction men’s right to define and govern heterosexual interactions. Close readings of Basson’s case studies show how, instead of helping men better understand and adapt to women’s sexual needs, the sexual response model’s therapeutic goal consists of helping women better understand and adapt to men’s sexual needs.