Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

Which indicator is most informative for determining the etiology of a client's impotence?

1. The experience of pain during intercourse

2. The client's level of performance anxiety

3. The presence of nocturnal erections

4. The presence of diabetes

The correct answer is: The presence of nocturnal erections

The presence of nocturnal erections is particularly informative for determining the etiology of a client's impotence because it can help differentiate between physical and psychological causes of erectile dysfunction. Nocturnal erections indicate that the physiological mechanisms underlying sexual arousal are functioning properly; if a client has normal nocturnal erections, it suggests that there may be a psychological factor contributing to their impotence rather than a purely physiological issue. In contrast, the experience of pain during intercourse could suggest a range of issues, including medical or psychological concerns, but it does not directly indicate the physiological capability for an erection itself. Similarly, performance anxiety can impact a person's sexual performance, but it is primarily a psychological factor that, while meaningful, does not offer direct insight into physiological health. The presence of diabetes is important to consider since it can lead to erectile dysfunction, but it is more of a risk factor rather than a direct diagnostic indicator regarding the current functional ability of erections. Overall, nocturnal erections provide a clearer understanding of a person's physiological sexual health, making it a critical indicator in assessing the etiology of impotence.