Home > Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders > Erectile dysfunction

Definition

Erectile dysfunction (ED) may be defined as the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual intercourse. The word "consistent" is included in the definition because most men experience transient episodes of ED that are temporary and usually associated with fatigue, anger, depression or other stressful emotions. The use of the formerly used term "impotence" has been virtually abandoned because of its inherent stigmaof weakness and lack of power.

Erectile dysfunction can occur as part of several mental disorders recognized by the mental health professional's manual, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,often shortened to the...