Sexual Addiction, by definition, describes a person’s obsessive behavior and compulsive thought process surrounding sex. Any addiction left untreated will thoroughly dominate someone’s time making commitments like work or personal relationships difficult if not altogether impossible. Sex addicts often blame others for their consequences and deny they even have a problem. The addiction takes precedence over all aspects of a person’s life and self centered behavior that develops results in estrangement in relationships and damage to the spirit.
Sexual Addiction can result in dangerous consequences some medical/physical, some legal and some emotional. The risk taking behavior by a sex addict may start off with cyber sex and self – stimulation and through a progression end up with the use of prostitution and some cases molestation and rape. The obsession and compulsion is so great that loss of work, relationships, and imprisonment can not detour the addict from their addiction.
Sex Addicts do not necessarily become sex offenders. Left untreated some sex addicts lead a life of quiet desperation finding no satisfaction in any sexual activity and not able to form any meaning relationships. They are not capable of control over their behavior and are off consumed with guilt and shame.
Treating sexual addiction can only take place if the denial is broken. This will usually be the result of a major consequence, loss of a job, divorce, or maybe incarceration. Actual therapy will focus on changing behavior and developing an appropriate sexuality. As with an eating disorder the object of the addiction can not be totally avoided. Marital and family counseling are important to the recovery and the support of a 12 step fellowship.