Aspects of the infantile psychosexual development are described concerning
the discovering of the genitalia,the constitution of the body-image and the
gender-role. Freud's theory of female sexual development is reviewed in th
e light of modem theories of femininity. A classification of sexual dysfunc
tions is presented. The psychodynamics of men and women with sexual dysfunc
tions and Kernbergs theory of sexuality in partnership are described. Final
ly the lack of interest in sexual dysfunction in psychoanalysis is delineat
ed and the importance of treating sexual symptoms white considering underly
ing conflicts is pointed out.