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The Sexually Addicted Couple
Published in Len Sperry, Katherine Helm, Jon Carlson, The Disordered Couple, 2019
Sexual addiction is sexual behavior that is, in some way, out of control. While there is debate about what to call this type of behavior, one researcher suggests the use of “compulsive sexual behavior” until a more exact term is available (Cohn, 2014). Throughout this chapter, the terms sexual addiction, hypersexuality, and compulsive sexual behavior will be used to describe the subjective experiences of those who self-identify as sex addicts and the research that examines these behaviors. This chapter will provide an overview of sexual addiction and pornography followed by a representation of these issues in DSM-5 and the implications these issues have on couples’ relationships. Next, a case conceptualization will be used to explore the impact of sex and pornography addictions in couples and to offer assessment, treatment, and cultural considerations for couples dealing with these issues in counseling. Finally, a summary of treatment implications and recommendations will be offered.
Issues of Isolation and Intimacy for the HIV Infected, Sexually Addicted Gay Male in Group Psychotherapy
Published in Michael W. Ross, HIV/AIDS and Sexuality, 2012
Conflict avoidance is constantly at play and with a sex addict, this manifests through compulsive behavior. According to Carnes (1985) sex can make isolation bearable. The sexual addict is often hypercritical and judgmental showing no acceptance for personal responsibility. The sexual addiction is comprised of preoccupation, ritualization, compulsive sexual behavior and despair. Carnes (1985) believes that the sex addict must develop roots in a caring community so as to lessen the isolation and learn new ways to relate in a non-sexual manner.
Sex addiction: therapist perspectives
Published in Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 2019
Sexual addiction may be defined as sexual behaviour that is “compulsive and yet continues despite adverse consequences” (Carnes & Adams, 2013, p. 5). It is characterised by the failure to resist impulses, pleasure or release following sexual behaviour, increased tension prior to sexual activity, and a lack of control (Goodman, 1990). Understanding of this condition is however hindered by the use of multiple labels, definitions, and assessment procedures. For example, though the label sexual addiction was originally proposed and perhaps as a consequence is most widely accepted, literature refers to addiction, compulsion, dependence, impulsivity, and excessive sexual behaviour (see Gold & Heffner, 1998 for a review). Furthermore, some professional bodies deny the existence of such a condition and consider sexual addiction to be a myth or social construct. They argue that within a dominant monogamous heterosexual culture, non-relational sex and excessive sex have been pathologised and reject attempts to diagnose sexual addiction. Furthermore, for those accepting that a condition exists which should be termed sexual addiction, substantial variation occurs with regards to the conceptualisation of addiction and the degree to which treatment providers view addiction as a disease or a coping mechanism (Russell, Davies, & Hunter, 2011).
The role of bisexual-specific minority stressors in sexual compulsivity among bisexual men
Published in Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 2018
Nathan Grant Smith, Jonathan J. Mohr, Lori E. Ross
Sexual compulsivity, also termed “sexual addiction” or “compulsive sexual behavior” (Parsons et al., 2008) is characterized by excessive sexual thoughts or behaviors that lead to distress or impairment in social or occupational functioning (Black, 2000). While this pattern of excessive sexual thoughts and behaviors has been variously labeled, sexual compulsivity appears to represent a distinct clinical concept (Black, Kehrberg, Flumerfelt, & Schlosser, 1997; Raymond, Coleman, & Miner, 2003). Sexual compulsivity affects up to 6% of the population and is more common among men than women (Black, 2000). Moreover, research suggests that sexual compulsivity disproportionately affects gay and bisexual men (Baum & Fishman, 1994; Missildine, Feldstein, Punzalan, & Parsons, 2005). In addition to distress and impaired functioning, sexual compulsivity is related to increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV (Black, 2000). Indeed, gay and bisexual men with higher levels of sexual compulsivity have been found to be more likely to have sex under the influence of drugs, have more sexual partners, engage in condomless anal sex, and report intentions and temptations for engaging in condomless sex (Grov, Parsons, & Bimbi, 2010), all of which increase risk for STIs.
What’s in a Name? A Phenomenological Exploration of Hypersexuality Narratives
Published in International Journal of Sexual Health, 2022
Natasha Knack, Dave Holmes, Chad Hammond, J. Paul Fedoroff
These results have important implications for the field of hypersexuality research, theory, and intervention. The terms hypersexuality and sexual addiction helped to provide frames for the behaviors participants saw as problematic, but because many of their behaviors had origins that transcended the sexual field, these terms only took them so far. Grounded in narratives of lived experience, participants’ sexualities were presented as dynamic, socially constructed, and irreducible to “purely” sexual interests and motivations. Most participants appeared to cross at least a few themes simultaneously, especially those related to sexual guilt, shame and pressure from spouses to seek help, avoidant masturbation, and symptoms reflective of other conditions.