Alcoholism in remission and sexual functioning

This study, in collaboration with Timothy O'Farrell, Ph.D., examines the changes in sexual functioning that occur in male alcoholics during their treatment for alcoholism with their supportive, intimate partner. For example, it is unclear exactly how alcoholism impacts erectile functioning, and whether erectile functioning would be expected to improve as alcoholics get better (drink less). We are especially interested in this study as a possible additional motivating factor in alcoholism treatment. That is, if their sexual lives and sexual relationships with their partners are likely to improve during their treatment for alcoholism, this may increase their motivation to adhere to and complete alcoholism treatment programs.

Labial thermistor validity: New evidence supporting an old measure

This study, in collaboration with Julia Heiman, Ph.D., tests important measurement properties of the labial thermistor. This instrument is used to measure changes in the temperature of labia in women and may be a better measure of sexual arousal than a widely used instrument called the vaginal photoplethysmograph.

Sexual orientation and cognitive processing

A person’s sexual orientation affects the way that they process cues that provide information about potential partners. It is unclear how quickly and automatically this occurs. The study uses a reaction time task to provide information about how information about attraction is accessed and may affect sexual preferences.

Neuropsychological indices of approach motivation

Problems like depression often are characterized, in part, by a lack of motivation to engage in daily activities of living, such as showering or attending social events. Yet, it is very difficult to study motivation broadly in the laboratory. This study is testing a psychophysiological model of motivation that also may provide a continuous measure of sexual motivation that does not rely on participants’ self-reports.

The effects of drinking and sexual arousal on decision making

Previous research suggests that sexual arousal may explain the apparent link between alcohol consumption and sexual risk-taking. This laboratory study tests these ideas using acute alcohol administration and studying two novel laboratory analogues of sexual risk-taking.

Wavelet analysis in biosignal processing.

One of the many challenges of using the vaginal photoplethysmograph are the many artifacts typically present in the vaginal pulse amplitude signal. Wavelet analysis offers a method for improving artifact detection and reduction. This is a joint project with ISU engineering.