Sexual Addiction

The four-phase addiction cycle: preoccupation, ritualization, sexual compulsiveness, and despair can repeat itself unhindered and take over the addict's life, attacking the person's values, priorities and loved ones. Sex addiction usually accompanies other addictions and 81% of addicts were abused sexually as children.

Indication is for every 3 male sex addicts there is 1 female sex addict.

How can one determine when sexual behaviour is addictive? Signs of compulsive sexuality are when the behaviour can be described as follows:

1. It is SECRET. Anything that cannot pass public scrutiny will create the shame of a double life.
2. It is ABUSIVE to self or others. Anything that is exploitive or harmful to others, or degrades oneself, will activate the addictive system.
3. It is used to avoid or is a source of painful FEELINGS. If sexuality is used to alter moods, or results in painful mood shifts, it is clearly part of the addictive process.
4. It is EMPTY of a caring, committed relationship. Fundamental to the whole concept of addiction and recovery is the healthy dimension of human relationships.

- Dr. Patrick Carnes, Ph.D.