Psychology of male infertility--a literature survey.

Fifty-three articles on the psychology of male infertility published between 1948 and 1985 are reviewed with respect to theoretical backgrounds, methodological approaches and results suggesting an influence of psychological factors on male fertility. Although the data of most empirical studies are found to be incomplete and inconclusive because of conceptual deficiencies and insufficient methods, there is some evidence for stress responses negatively affecting male fertility. The variety of psychological factors presented in the literature indicates the heterogeneity of psychological involvement in male infertility. In conclusion, goals for future research on psychobiological aspects of male infertility are suggested and methodological criteria are outlined.