Porn and Sex Addiction
Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge understands that when you or a loved one struggles with compulsive sexual behavior or pornography, you want to find the best solution for breaking free from these destructive behaviors. Please contact us to learn more about how we address these problematic behaviors in men.
Sex addiction is a highly debated topic. It isn’t classified by the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) but was recently added to the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases (ICD). For those who struggle with compulsive sexual behavior, pornography consumption may also be problematic.
“Sex addiction can manifest in a variety of ways, one of which is a pornography addiction,” says Dr. Carla Manly, a clinical psychologist and sex expert. “In essence, a pornography addiction is just one disorder under the main category of sexual addictions.”
As with any addiction, there are tell-tale signs you or someone you know may have a problem. With sex addiction, you are constantly thinking about sex and acting on those urges regardless of potential consequences. “Porn viewing, though not a substance, produces those same brain responses,” says Dr. Mike Anderson, a sex and relationship expert.
While those who struggle with compulsive sexual behavior disorder will do anything they can to fulfill their thoughts, fantasies, and urges, some seek sex with another person. In contrast, others may prefer the less personal means of pornography. Because of this difference, some view sex and porn addiction as separate disorders.
“There are some obvious similarities and areas of overlap between the two,” says Dr. Daniel Sher, a clinical psychologist. “It is even possible to struggle with both porn and sex addiction-like behaviors simultaneously. However, they are not the same thing.”
“With sex addiction, there’s a more significant interpersonal component. The person with the addiction needs to have sex with another person to satisfy their need — porn alone wouldn’t cut it. For this reason, people with sex addiction are often extroverted and eager to mingle. People who are addicted to pornography, on the other hand, are more likely to be introverted and happy to stay at home.”
Sex addiction and porn addiction share a lot of similarities. Both can severely negatively affect people’s work, social and personal lives. People with either a porn or a sex addiction cannot stop their behaviors, even though they may want to. However, both can be successfully treated with professional help through psychotherapy or counseling.
FIND HELP NOW at Great Lakes Adult & Teen Challenge
If you or a loved one suffers from sexual or pornography addiction, we want to help you now. Call us at (414) 748-4357 to learn more about our addiction treatment program that has helped many men and women overcome their addictions. We look forward to speaking with you.
