Similar to “porn addiction”, many men come to my office having diagnosed themselves as “sex addicts”. This is often (but not always) related to their perceptions of their porn usage, but can extend to any number of partnered and solo behaviors that feel distressing or even shameful. The fact is that, while “sex addiction” is a term widely used in mainstream media, there is not enough evidence-based research to confirm that it even exists!

Furthermore, many in the sex education/counseling community see the term as sex negative because addiction treatment often promotes powerlessness and abstinence. I treat what many call “sex addiction” as “out of control sexual behavior”. This is an evidence-based approach that provides a structure for balancing sexual behavior with universal health principles and personal values.