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Sexual addiction: designation and treatment
1Minnesota Institute of Psychiatry, St. Paul 55105-2219.
Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy
|January 1, 1992
Summary
The study examines terms for compulsive sexual behavior, concluding "sexual addiction" is most suitable. It defines sexual addiction and outlines diagnostic criteria, addressing counterarguments and treatment implications.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The existence of compulsive sexual behavior is generally accepted.
- Significant debate exists regarding the appropriate terminology for this syndrome.
- Existing terms include sexual compulsivity, sexual dependency, and sexual addiction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the principal candidate terms for compulsive sexual behavior.
- To determine the most suitable designation for the syndrome.
- To define sexual addiction and establish diagnostic criteria.
Main Methods:
- Analysis and comparison of the terms: compulsivity, dependency, and addiction.
- Definition of sexual addiction based on established addiction disorder criteria.
- Review and refutation of arguments against the concept of sexual addiction.
Main Results:
- The term "sexual addiction" is identified as the most appropriate designation.
- Clear diagnostic criteria for addictive disorder are specified.
- Arguments against the concept of sexual addiction are addressed.
Conclusions:
- Sexual addiction is proposed as the most fitting term for compulsive sexual behavior.
- Diagnostic criteria are provided to aid in identification and understanding.
- The implications of conceptualizing this behavior as an addiction for treatment are explored.
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