The hypersexual disorder: deciphering
6 min read
Louise halimi
Depression
Anxiety
Addictions
Therapy
CBT
Sexuality
Sexual addiction, often referred to as hypersexuality or hypersexual disorder, is a contentious subject in psychiatry and psychology (Pistre and al., 2023). While not officially recognized as a distinct clinical diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), many professionals acknowledge compulsive sexual behaviors as a genuine problem affecting mental health and individuals' well-being.
Identified behaviors
Sexual addiction is characterized by excessive preoccupation and uncontrollable impulses to engage in sexual activities despite negative consequences. In 1990, psychiatrist Aviel Goodman defined it as "the increasing, especially uncontrolled, frequency of sexual behavior that persists despite potential negative consequences and personal suffering. Sex becomes an absolute priority in the subject's life, for which they are willing to sacrifice anything" (An integrated approach).
The most common sexual practices among individuals suffering from this disorder include:
- Compulsive masturbation
- Multiple sexual relationships
- Consumption of pornography via the internet, phone, strip clubs, etc.
- Engagement in paraphilias or atypical sexual behaviors: fetishism, voyeurism, sadomasochism, exhibitionism, cross-dressing, non-consensual sexual acts, sexual harassment, and relations with minors.
Consequences for the individual
Affected individuals may feel trapped by their sexual impulses, experiencing difficulties in establishing or maintaining healthy relationships.
Hypersexual behaviors can coexist with other mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or personality disorders. The complexity of these comorbid conditions often necessitates a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach for effective management.
This situation can have emotional repercussions: feelings of shame and guilt, impacts on the family sphere (neglect of the partner, divorce). Physically, it may manifest in sexually transmitted diseases (HIV).
Apart from the emotional and social repercussions mentioned, this addiction can also affect an individual's professional and financial functioning. Excessive spending associated with these behaviors can lead to serious financial difficulties (cybersex services, prostitution, phone lines, etc.).
These behaviors can also trigger the onset of other addictions such as excessive alcohol or drug consumption, leading the individual into a legal spiral, social marginalization, and ultimately culminating in suicide.
Affected population
Hypersexuality can affect individuals of any age, gender, ethnic origin, or socioeconomic background. However, studies suggest that the disorder is more common among men (Karila and al., 2014) and young adults (Benhaiem, Accro, Flammarion, 2009). This disorder can affect both singles and people in relationships, often disrupting relationships and leading...