WHAT IS PROBLEMATIC SEXUAL BEHAVIOR? WHAT IS SEX ADDICTION?
Problematic sexual behavior (PSB) is an on-going, uncontrollable pattern of sexual thoughts and behaviors that prove problematic in a person’s life. This particular form of addiction or compulsive behavior is often misunderstood. Sensationalized or worst-case scenarios may make headlines – but are not the norm. Though “sex addiction” may be the more known name, there is a spectrum of clinical issues; to more accurately include everything under the umbrella, the term problematic sexual behavior is used. If unaddressed, PSB can progressively get worse over time.
What are the signs that sexual behavior is becoming problematic?
- Signs that sexual behavior is becoming problematic include:
- Preoccupation to the point of obsession for hours, even days.
- Loss of control over sexual urges, thoughts or behaviors.
- Negative consequences like problems at work and relationships or emotional decline.
“Sexual behavior can become problematic based on factors such as pathology, cooccurring disorders, relationship conflicts, values conflicts, and health issues,” says Richard Blankenship, LPC, NCC, CPCS, CBTS, CPSBT. “It doesn’t have to be pathological or have a diagnosis to be problematic.” Blankenship served on the Board of Directors for the Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health.
Is sex addiction about sex?
The addiction is not about sex, but about escaping some form of emotional discomfort. The behaviors are an attempt to self-medicate, become numb to escape problems or avoid intimacy. Without intervention PSB consequences (shame, guilt, broken relationships) can provoke increased behaviors. It can be chronic and progressively get worse.
Do all people that struggle controlling sexual impulses have sexual offenses too?
People diagnosed with this behavior do struggle with controlling sexual impulses, but PSB does not equate to a sexual offense. Though it is possible to be both PSB-diagnosed and a sexual offender, most people with PSB do not become sexual offenders.
Do you have to be careful labeling sexual behaviors?
“Some sexual behaviors that might have been called an addiction or problematic may not be a problem to the individual,” says Blankenship. “Even DSM diagnosis can’t be rendered if it’s not causing a problem for the individual. People who are caught up in PSB don’t realize the impact it has on others in their environment until it’s too late.”
What are some misconceptions about Problematic Sexual Behavior?
The misconception is, “Sex Addiction is primarily a problem experienced my men.” This is not true; men and women experience problematic sexual behaviors. “The misconception lies in the way society views a female who is struggling with sex addiction. Often times the lenses of society makes the rationale and she is labeled as promiscuous or a slut. This is a societal prejudice that must be addressed to provide appropriate services to all people,” says Josh Pitre, MSW, LCSW, EMDR TRAINED, CSAT, a Primary Therapist at Santé Center for Healing.
It is also a misconception to think someone with PSB cannot get better. Treatment will need to be specialized, however. Treating PSB differs from treating other types of compulsive behaviors or addictions in that the goal is not abstinence. With someone who struggles with alcoholism, the treatment can involve cutting out alcohol entirely. With PSB the goal is to change the clients’ relationship with sex, not to completely abstain.
Some additional misconceptions of PSB are outlined by Jessica Hutchinson, PHD, LPC, a Primary Therapist at Santé:
- Sexual interests can’t be changed.
- Only people who are immoral have PSB.
- Only a certain “type” of person has PSB.
- Moral failing /PSB will always lead to offending.
WHAT DO I DO IF I’M STRUGGLING WITH SEXUAL BEHAVIORS?
Santé Center for Healing offers treatment for those suffering anywhere on the problematic sexual behavior spectrum, including sex addiction. Given that many people with PSB also misuse alcohol and other drugs, Santé is expertly prepared to address the co-occurring disorders simultaneously for a great chance at achieving and maintaining long-term recovery.
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