Abstract
Sexual dysfunction in young people is on the rise. This trend has dramatic implications for key state interests, including fertility rates, economic growth, and overall well-being. The serious consequences associated with poor sexual health in childbearing-age citizens call for creative solutions. One such solution is Surrogate Partner Therapy (“SPT”), a highly effective form of treatment for people suffering from severe cases of psychogenic sexual dysfunction. SPT establishes a triadic relationship among the patient, a licensed mental health professional, and a trained surrogate partner who may use intimate contact to instill patients with the skills necessary to form healthy connections. However, because its unorthodox methods likely violate state anti-prostitution laws, SPT is rarely utilized. This article argues that, given SPT’s promising potential to address the rise of psychosexual ailments in young people, state governments should create a limited medical exception to their prohibitions on prostitution.