The role of visual imagery in the retention of information from sentences.

We conducted two experiments to evaluate a multiple-code model for sentence memory that posits both propositional and visual representational systems. Both sentences involved recognition memory. The results of Experiment 1 indicated that subjects' recognition memory for concrete sentences was superior to their recognition memory for abstract sentences. Instructions to use visual imagery to enhance recognition performance yielded no effects. Experiment 2 tested the prediction that interference by a visual task would differentially affect recognition memory for concrete sentences. Results showed the interference task to have had a detrimental effect on recognition memory for both concrete and abstract sentences. Overall, the evidence provided partial support for both a multiple-code model and a semantic integration model of sentence memory.

Treatment of secondary orgasmic dysfunction: an outcome study.

This study investigated the differential effectiveness of various treatment formats for 55 couples in which the woman reported secondary orgasmic dysfunction (defined as the inability of the woman to reach orgasm during intercourse, with or without clitoral stimulation, more than 50% of the time for the last 5 months). Couples received two 2-hr sessions of sexual reeducation and were then assigned into one of four treatment conditions (a communication skills format, a sexual skills format, one of two combination formats) or into one of two control conditions (an attention-comparison control condition which consisted of didactic presentations, or a waiting-list control condition). Treatment was conducted by one of two female clinical psychologists in groups of between four to six couples. No significant differences were found between the different treatment conditions at the posttest or at the 6-month follow-up. Statistical comparisons conducted between the combined treatment and combined control conditions showed that the couples who received treatment reported significantly less overall sexual dissatisfaction and significantly greater sexual harmony at the posttest; however, these differences became nonsignificant at the follow-up. In comparison with the women in the control conditions, a significantly greater number of women who received treatment reached or exceeded the project's 50% criterion for coital orgasmic functioning at the posttest; however, these differences became nonsignificant at the follow-up. Couples who reported less relationship adjustment prior to treatment showed greater overall gains in coital orgasmic frequency than couples who reported better relationship adjustment.

The effects of sex education on women with secondary orgasmic dysfunction.

This study evaluated the effects of sex education on 48 couples in which the women reported secondary orgasmic dysfunction. None of the males had a problem with premature ejaculation or with erectile dysfunction. Couples received two, two-hour sessions of sex education during a one-week period. From measures administered before and after treatment, the women reported significantly increased orgasmic frequency and decreased sexual anxiety. The males reported a significant increase in the duration of intercourse and in oral-genital sexual stimulation. None of the subject characteristics significantly predicted overall change. The findings underscored the important role of sex education in facilitating positive changes in a woman's orgasmic frequency and in a sexual relationship. Future research should assess the relative meaningfulness of the various components of the sex education package.