What Is Sex Addiction?
Behaviorally: Sexual Addiction is about engaging in any of a variety of sexual behaviors with unsuccessful efforts to stop (ironically, it's root is not about "sex" at all). It usually includes a preoccupation with sexual behaviors and frequently interferes with school, family, work, or other relationships. The person may continue the behavior(s) despite knowledge of having persistent or recurrent social, financial, psychological or physical problems, or adverse consequences that are caused or made worse by the behavior. It can include feelings of increased anxiety or irritability if the person is unable to engage in the activity.
Psychologically: Sexual Addiction is about one's perception of: self-value, "ability to be loved", seeking affirmation and reassurance, pursuit of intimacy, and soothing psychological pain.
Examples of Sexually Addictive Behaviors Include , but are not limited to persistent use of:
•masturbation
•adult pornography
•teen/child pornography
•strip clubs/ sexual arcades
•prostitutes/massage parlors
•infidelities that include physical and emotional affairs
Additional Behaviors may include:
•Obsessive sexual and/or romantic fantasy
•Sexual Chat/Web Cam Imaging/Hook-Ups
•Exhibitionism
•Voyeurism
•Indecent phone calls
•Indecent liberties
•Seductive sex
•Paying or trading for sex
•Boundary violations
•Anonymous sex
•Pain exchange sex
•Same-sex relations
•Exploitive sex
Deception, shame, guilt, and secrecy are persistent realities in the addict's life...
However, Sex Addiction is Treatable!. Addicts can and do recover with appropriate treatment supported by involvement in a related therapy group and, ideally, 12 step program. Addicts can develop intimacy in a relationship unlike anything they have experienced so far.
CONTACT Ken directly at : (360) 621-9286
Call Ken for an Appointment: (360) 621-9286
e-mail: K.Seaton@msn.com
It is not simply "compulsive" behavior (OCD)...
"Compulsive" behavior is driven by fear;
"Addictive" behavior is driven by pleasure/reward.
