Sexual addiction. Is it a term used to excuse people (usually men) from actions that society does not approve of? Or is it a real disorder?
Some people believe that it’s nothing more than a lame excuse. However, I fully believe that, for some, it is a true mental health issue. There are many other addictions (alcohol, drug, gambling, etc.) that are recognized as legitimate disorders; I can’t see why sexual addiction should be dismissed as merely an excuse.
Many people showing signs of sexual addiction (compulsive masturbation, infidelity, excessive use of porn, etc.) are attempting to fill emotional voids. Perhaps they were neglected as children, and have developed these intense cravings to satisfy emotional needs that were not fulfilled in childhood. Perhaps they’ve experienced other types of abuse that have traumatized them and triggered these excessive urges.
There are a variety of possible explanations, and while not all people who exhibit unhealthy sexual actions fall under the category of ‘sexually addicted,’ it’s important for us to realize that this IS a real addiction for some.
By Robyn Goldberg & Mark Dworkin LCSW
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