Sexual AddictionWhat is Sexual Addiction?
Addiction is defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) “as a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors. It is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response. Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death”.
Sex Addiction (sometimes referred to or described as nymphomania, hypersexuality, satyriasis, erotomania, compulsive sexual behavior, Don Juanism, and Don Juanitaism) is a term used to describe a person that feels a lack of control or restraint concerning their sexual thoughts, urges and behaviors. It is marked by compulsive sexual thoughts and acts alongside difficulties with intimacy. It can demonstrate itself as uncontrollable compulsions with pornography, masturbation, phone sex, cybersex, escorts, prostitutes, meaningless affairs, strip clubs, voyeurism, and exhibitionism to name a few. In some cases, it can progress to rape or pedophilia. Sex addiction is having these urges and thoughts in such a preoccupying intensity that the addict feels unable to control them and is compelled to follow through and act on these thoughts. The compulsion to act out is stronger than the fear of the inherent dangers and potential damages to the addict and the addict’s family, friends, work, moral code and finances.
The causes of sex addiction are complex and not completely understood. Theories range from a dysfunctional family life in childhood, to biochemical imbalances, to being sexually abused as a child, to the misdiagnoses of Obsessive Compulsion Disorder (OCD) as sex addiction.
The proponents of the psychological theories lean towards believing that a dysfunctional family life can leave a child feeling a lack of trust in others, and that they are unworthy of love. This lack of trust and feeling of unworthy of love can lead a person down the path of using sex as a temporary way to feel close to someone without intimacy, or to avoid intimacy altogether with pornography or masturbation.
The supporters of biochemical imbalances tend to favor studies that show antidepressants and psychotropic medications to be an effective means in treating some patients. The people who believe that sex addiction is not its own disorder, but is misdiagnosed Narcissistic Personality Disorder or Obsessive Compulsion Disorder, or Bipolar Disorder look towards the progression and nature of sex addiction and see similarities with these other disorders. The ability to manage sexual addiction can be learned, and a normal life can be lived without these struggles.
Statistics
Sexual addiction is an addiction that is not hard to develop. It would seem that people in general are fixated on sex so much so that 72 Million worldwide internet users visit adult sites per month. Also, about 12% of total websites are pornographic (4.2 Million websites). There are many other statistics relating to sexual addiction. Here are a few:
- 42.7% Of internet users view pornography
- The National Council on Sexual Addiction Compulsivity estimated that 6%-8% of Americans are sex addicts, which is 18 million – 24 million people
- More than 80% of women who have porn addiction take it offline. Women, far more than men, are likely to act out their behaviors in real life, such as having multiple partners, casual sex, or affairs
Causes of Sexual Addiction
There is no one reason as to why someone develops a sexual addiction. There are several theories but the most common ones appear to be:
- Psychological – Often associated with OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), bipolar disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, etc.
- Biological – The intoxication of the sexual release are believed to create a change in brain chemicals. The neuro-pathways to the brain’s reward center for drug abuse and sexual addiction are very common
- Social – Frequently have low self worth, insecurity, difficulty coping with painful emotions, may have been sexually abused, etc.
Unfortunately, with the explosion of pornography on the internet, sexual addiction is on the rise. Some researchers of sex addiction claim that internet sex is the “crack cocaine” for the addiction. This makes sexual addiction a difficult battle to fight with all of the sexual stimulation one could desire at the tip of their fingertips. However, help is available through the support of loved ones, a specialist trained sexual therapy and sexual addiction treatment centers.
Signs and Symptoms of Sexual Addiction
Sexual addiction, like most addictions, is one that is hidden and often the person suffering feels a great deal of shame. This person needs help, and there are various signs and symptoms that may present themselves by someone suffering from sex addiction. If these symptoms are viewed or experienced, then professional help should be contacted. Some symptoms include:
- The inability to stop, resist, or control the impulses to engage in sexual acts
- Frequently having more sex and with more partners than intended
- Needing to engage in sexual behaviors more often and over longer period of time
- Excessive amounts of energy and time spent in acquiring sex, being sexual, or recouping from sexual experience
- Obsessed with the actions or preliminary activities that are to a part of the sexual activity
- Constantly participating in the sexual behavior regardless of the negative consequences
- Unable to fulfill occupational, academic, domestic, or social obligations due to sexual behavior
- The persistent need to intensify the amount, or risk of behaviors to reach the desired outcome
- Constantly desiring and obsessed with sex
Sexual Addiction Effects
Attempting to live with a sexual addiction is extremely complicated. It is difficult to live a normal life as the addict is constantly focused and obsessed with fulfilling their sexual desires. They then give in to acting on the compulsive need to alleviate the stress and anxiety that has been built-up. The ability to recognize the physical, emotional and social effects of sex addiction can help lead to recovery sooner. Some emotional signs include:
- Shame
- Depression
- Low self-confidence
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety
- Obsessive compulsive tendencies
- Guilt
- Anger
Some of the physical effects are:
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Hepatitis B or C
Harmful social consequences:
- Sufferer becomes isolated
- Can develop substance abuse addiction
- Broken family relationships
- Legal troubles
- Loss of career
- Experience financial devastation
Sexual Addiction Treatment
Treating addiction to sex is as unique as the individual that is battling it. It is complicated and hard to manage. The person is constantly obsessed with sexual thoughts and behaviors. They become consumed with the rituals the pathological pursuit of fulfilling the sexual desires that must be performed before they can feel the release of the tension. The best treatment for sexual addiction is seeking specialized assistance from a certified counselor or sexual rehabilitation treatment center. With the proper tools, guidance and support, virtually any addiction can be overcome and you can be in control your life again.