The psychological literature on male sexual impotence is reviewed. Specifically, a description of and a learning theory analysis of male impotence are presented. Also, there is a review of behavior modification techniques used to treat male impotence. Such techniques include systematic desensitization using self-induced and drug-induced relaxation, relaxation in the sexual environment, and training in assertive sexual behavior. It is suggested that more research is needed to assess the relative importance of insight, re-education in sexual behavior and techniques, encouragement, and expectancy, which are often used with strict behavioral treatment methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]