PSYCHOLOGY OF SEX: SEXUAL ADDICTION
In our sexually repressive culture, we have little concern for the well-being of women and men who have sex less often than mo people. But we have grave concerns about women and men who have sex more often than most people. Having sex very infrequently, or not at all, is called hypophilia. Having sex more often than most people is called hyperphilia. The desire for women to have sex very frequently with many different partners is called nymphomania. A similar desire in men is called satyriasis or Don Juanism.
Some mental health professionals consider nymphomania and satyriasis sexual compulsions, or sexual addictions, if the search for sex partners:
• results from an obsession that is like being in a trance and involves the development of rituals
to intensify sexual arousal
• interferes with important responsibilities and commitments, such as getting to work, home, or
school, maintaining good health, and forming nonsexual social relationships
• seems utterly hopeless to control
Recovery groups, such as Sexual Compulsives Anonymous, can be very helpful for women and men who want to control what they believe to be sexual addiction. However, accurate diagnosis and treatment for sexual addiction through psychosexual counseling may also be very important for people who are concerned that they may be addicted to sex.
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