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Sex Addiction is sometimes blown off as not a real addiction, or someone just making an excuse for cheating or doing something that society in general, deems inappropriate. Over the more recent years however, there has been a significant increase in credibility to it being an actual disorder, affecting an estimated 12 million people. Sometimes a sexual addiction, or sometimes referred to as sexual hyperactivity, depending on the type and severity can be dangerous.
There are several different types of sexual addiction that are common, and a few not so common, but that still exist. Since there are so many different types of sex addiction, it may be difficult to diagnose if you or someone you know have an actual addiction, or maybe just an overly healthy sex drive. Here are some different types, and brief descriptions of sexual addiction:
Pornography Addiction
Porn addiction is just one kind of sex addiction.
Many people use porn to spice up a relationship, but an addiction to porn may be difficult to diagnose. Some people turn to porn compulsively or obsessively. They may spend an inappropriate amount of time watching it or even watching it at inappropriate times/places, such as work or school.
Voyeurism/Exhibitionists
Sex addicts who are exhibitionists are sexually turned on by “flashing” their genitals to people, usually in public. This makes this one of the more risky types, as far as getting caught and prosecuted. Voyeurism is a common type and the addicts’ victims usually do not know that they have been victimized. The term “peeping tom” is used to describe the people whom have the addiction. The addict is usually aroused and often masturbate while watching the victim as they are engaged in intimate moments such as showering, undressing, engaged in sex, or even using the bathroom.
Paid Sex/ Sex for Trade
Although they may sound similar these two common types of sexual addictions are quite the opposite. Paying for sex, or using prostitutes is common because the addict has an endless stream of willing sexual partners. This can also include paying for phone sex, or webcam sex. Sex for trade is when the addict receives payment for sex. This “payment” received might not be limited to money, it can come in the form of services, drugs, shelter, etc.
Sadomasochism/Fetishes
Sadomasochism or S&M, is where the addict is either a sadist, who is sexually aroused by humiliating or causing pain to their partner, or a masochist, in which they gain sexual arousal by having pain inflicted upon them. Fetishes are when the presence of an object, specific body part, or behavior (real or fantasized) is part of a person’s sexual gratification.
Intrusive Sex
This involves touching someone in a sexual manner without their consent. An addict will (usually in a public place as to be able to easily escape) touch the genitals, breasts or buttocks of their victim. It can also include rubbing themselves against their victims.
Exploitative Sex
Where the person gains sexual pleasure by coercing the other person to engage in sexual activity, this can include pedophilia and rape. The aggressor gets satisfaction from the power they have over their victims.
Although there is no official way to determine if someone has a sexual addiction, if you suspect that you or someone you know may be suffering from it there are treatment options out there. You should seek help in determining whether it is an addiction, and the best treatment options. You can do this by visiting one of many websites like the reputable Addictions.com for further information.