Humans are wired to get a great deal of pleasure from sex. If that weren't the case people would not engage in sexual activity as often and have less motivation to procreate.

In order to understand sexual addiction there must first be an understanding of addiction. A person is considered addicted to a substance or behavior if it is done compulsively despite negative consequences. The person has made a number of attempts to discontinue using a substance or not engaging in the behavior and has not been successful. Promising yourself or others that you will quit and returning to the behaviors is a sign that you may be addicted. The reason for engaging in the behavior or using the substance is also an important factor. People who engage in these compulsive behaviors or use substances in order to change or avoid feelings or avoid something that they don't want to face are at risk for addiction.

Other factors that might determine if someone is a sex addict could include engaging in the sexual behavior longer than planned and missing, or being late to, family or work related events due to engaging in sexual behaviors. If your sexual behavior is having a negative effect on your job performance or your relationships you may want to consider that you might be developing or already have a sexual addiction. Isolating from family and friends in order to engage in sexual behavior could point toward a sexual addiction.

People who masturbate compulsively could be at risk for sexual addiction. The internet makes it easy to access an incredible amount of pornography that can stimulate the pleasure centers of the brain. Many sex addicts spend many hours looking at pornography and masturbating (for some, multiple times per day). Some sex addicts engage in voyeurism or forms of exhibitionism. People who engage in multiple affairs could also have a sexual addiction.

Like other addictions, there is a cycle that exists with sex addiction. The cycle can be broken and the addiction treated. If you or someone you know identify with what has been discussed in this article, they can seek counseling with a professional that has experience treating sex addiction. There are also 12 step programs for sexual addiction (S.L.A.A. and S.A.A.). It starts with accepting that you have a problem and dealing with the issues and seeking help.

Jay Tow

Life Management & Relationship Coach, Certified Sexologist

Please visit my website: www.ALTtherapist.org