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Compulsive sexual behavior is not the result of a diminished moral capacity or a lack of fait
h. It is rooted in addiction! How do you know if you or someone you love might be a sex addict?
Diagnostic Criteria for Sex Addiction
The following criteria have been established as indicators of sex addiction.
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1.
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Loss of Control—Recurrent failure to resist sexual impulses. |
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2.
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Compulsive Behavior—More extensive/longer sexual acting out than intended. |
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3.
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Efforts to Stop—Ongoing, but unsuccessful, efforts to stop, reduce, or control behavior. |
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4.
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Loss of Time—Inordinate time spent obtaining sex, being sexual, or recovering from sexual experiences. |
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5.
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Preoccupation—Feeling preoccupied with sexual behavior and/or preparatory activities. |
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6.
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Inability to Fulfill Obligations—Acting out takes significant time away from obligations: occupational, academic, domestic, or social. |
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7.
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Continuance—Continuation of behavior despite consequences:
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a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
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Risk of VD
Lost partner or had marital problems
Lost rights to be with children
Abortions/unwanted pregnancies
Career problems
Risk arrest |
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8.
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Escalation—Tolerance - More frequency or intensity of behavior is needed over time to obtain the desired result. |
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9.
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Losses—Deliberately limiting social, occupational, or recreational activities to keep time open for acting out. |
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10.
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Withdrawal—Distress, restlessness, or irritability if unable to do behavior (withdrawal) |
A minimum of 3 of the above 10 are needed for sex addiction to be considered present. Many sex addicts have 5 signs, while over 50% have 7.
Material taken from research by Patrick Carnes, PhD
Sex Addiction Screening Test
Internet Sex Addiction Screening Test
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