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The addiction to sex is to have a large and uncontrollable sexual desire. Currently, the appropriate term to refer to this concept is "hypersexuality".
Hypersexuality or sex addiction consists of engaging in sexual behaviors that involve involvement in risky situations and negative consequences, such as unwanted pregnancies, contracting sexually transmitted diseases, and personal, family, financial or work problems. Sex addiction is characterized by loss of control over sexual behaviors, which can range from compulsive masturbation to cybersex. The sex addict carries out these behaviors with the aim of reducing anxiety or psychological or emotional discomfort. Sex addiction can occur in conjunction with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, substance dependence, problems with impulse control, and hyperactivity.
Is sex addiction a disorder? Hypersexuality Disorder was proposed to be included in the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), but it was not finally included due to lack of scientific evidence. Therefore, it is not currently listed as a mental or psychological disorder in the DSM-V. However, it is considered a psychological problem since it interferes in the life of those who suffer from it, producing discomfort and negative consequences.
Below, you can answer just 10 questions about your sexuality in this free psychological quiz from Psychology-Online. In this test to find out if you are addicted to sex, you will obtain the results for free and immediately to know if you present the characteristic symptoms of hypersexuality or sex addiction.
The results obtained in these tests are indicative, since the diagnosis must always be made by a professional psychologist.
Bibliography- Adès, J., & Lejoyeux, M. (2003). The new addictions: internet, sex, gambling, sports, shopping, work, money . Editorial Kairós.
- Echeburúa, E. (2012). Does sex addiction really exist? Addictions, 24 (4), 281-286.
- Sánchez, S., & Iruarrizaga, I. (2009). New dimensions, new addictions: addiction to sex on the internet . Psychosocial Intervention, 18 (3), 255-268.