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Prepuce restoration seekers: Psychiatric aspects

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Abstract

A new subgroup of patients within the homosexual community has been identified who are characterized by preoccupation with their absent foreskins. They associate their circumcised status with a sense of incompleteness, anger over a lack of choice, and their sense of masculinity. Four patients who sought surgical reconstruction are reported. None were Jewish or psychotic. All tolerated surgery well. Preliminary etiologic hypotheses are advanced, emphasizing psychodynamic and imprinting possibilities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 78284, San Antonio, Texas, USA

    Paul C. Mohl M.D. & Kathy A. Sheley Ph.D.

  2. Psychosomatic Consultation/Liaison Section, Psychiatry Service, Audie Murphy Veterans Administration Medical Center, 78284, San Antonio, Texas, USA

    Paul C. Mohl M.D.

  3. Department of Behavioral Science, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, 73190, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA

    Russel Adams Ph.D.

  4. Department of Surgery and Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 78284, San Antonio, Texas, USA

    Donald M. Greer M.D.

  5. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 78284, San Antonio, Texas, USA

    Kathy A. Sheley Ph.D.

Authors
  1. Paul C. Mohl M.D.
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  2. Russel Adams Ph.D.
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  3. Donald M. Greer M.D.
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  4. Kathy A. Sheley Ph.D.
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Mohl, P.C., Adams, R., Greer, D.M. et al. Prepuce restoration seekers: Psychiatric aspects. Arch Sex Behav 10, 383–393 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01565542

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01565542

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