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Criteria for Sex Addiction

 

 

  • Recurrent failure to resist sexual impulses.

 

  • More extensive/longer sexual acting out than intended.

 

  • Ongoing, but unsuccessful, efforts to stop, reduce, or control behavior.

 

  • Inordinate time spent obtaining sex, being sexual, or recovering from sexual experiences.

 

  • Feeling preoccupied with sexual behavior and/or preparatory activities.

 

  • Acting out takes significant time away from obligations: occupational, academic, domestic, or social.

 

  • Continuation of behavior despite consequences:

    Risk of VD
    Lost partner or had marital problems
    Lost rights to be with children
    Abortions/ unwanted pregnancies
    Career problems
    Risk arrest

 

  • Tolerance - More frequency or intensity of behavior is needed over time to obtain the desired result.

 

  • Deliberately limiting social, occupational, or recreational activities to keep time open for acting out.

 

  • Distress, restlessness, or irritability if unable to do behavior (withdrawal)

    Dizziness
    Body aches
    Headaches
    Sleeplessness
    Restlessness
    Anxiety
    Mood swings
    Depression

 

A minumum of 3 of the above 10 needed are needed for sex addiction to be considered present. Most sex addicts have 5 signs, while over 50% have 7.

 

Material taken from research by Patrick Carnes, Ph.D.

 

David C. Bissette, Psy.D.       Alexandria, VA       703-705-6161 

 

© 2004 David C. Bissette, Psy.D.