The tensions within the marriage increased, and finally the breaking point was reached. One night Harold’s wife sought sexual intercourse with him when he was emotionally drained and deeply concerned by his sexual failure. The encounter was a disaster. Harold failed to achieve an erection. His wife tried to comfort him and to convince him it was only because he was tired, but on the next occasion he failed again. His anxiety about his sexual performance increased each time he failed to get an erection. Each failure aggravated his anxiety about failing.
Tom avoids his wife’s sexual advances, finding excuses because he is afraid he will fail once again. After a period of rejection, she decides that she too will become sexually celibate. It is too traumatic to be rejected.
All communication between the couple ceases. They avoid physical contact, and avoid verbal expressions of affection. They have become isolated, unhappy, and anxious. And Tom is increasingly anxious about his impotence. It is to be hoped that at this point he will seek help.
*245/16/1*
