Monday, February 8, 2016

Some Common Myths about Sexual Addiction

Sexual addiction is a term that is shrouded in mystery. Both sex and addiction are topics that a lot of people find uncomfortable, and avoid talking about. This has lead to a lot of misconceptions regarding sexual addiction. Because there is such little education on sexual addiction, there are quite a few myths that a lot of people think are true. This post will attempt to debunk several myths, and shed light on some common misconceptions about hypersexuality.

Myth #1 - Sex addiction is an excuse to cheat and have a lot of sex.
Some people believe that sexual addiction is a condition made up by the addict - something they use as an excuse for cheating. This could not be more false. Sexual addiction is a real problem that involves a person engaging in unhealthy or even dangerous sexual behaviors, even if they know it will have a negative impact on their lives. The brains of sex addicts tell them that they need sex, and that they cannot get by without it.

Myth #2 - Everyone who cheats is a sex addict.
While some sexual addicts may cheat on their significant others, cheating does not classify someone as a sex addict. While the compulsive sexual behaviors that come with sex addiction can include cheating, they can also involve other aspects of their life. Cheating does not make someone a sex addict, and sexual addiction does not always involve cheating.

Myth #3 - Sexual addiction only affects men.
Sexual addiction actually impacts men and women equally, but it shows up differently in each gender. It is common for men to be addicted to the physical act of sex, while a lot of female sex addicts crave the emotional aspect of sex, love, and romance. Because of the lack of education and knowledge about female sex addiction, many women go undiagnosed, and do not even realize they have a problem.

Myth #4 - Sex addiction is only about sex.
A lot of people think sexual addiction is the inability to control ones sexual urges, and the underlying cause of this addiction is the drive to have sex. This is not always the case, as sex addicts are often motivated by a lot more than the act itself. According to Dr. Joe Kort, a sex and relationship therapist, sexual addiction often stems from pain, trauma, and/or loss of control. These underlying motivators often lead to a persons engagement in unhealthy sexual behaviors, as an attempt to rectify their negative feelings and emotions.

If you have more questions about sexual addiction, or think you or someone you know is struggling with it, head over to www.freedomeveryday.org and check out our list of resources. Always remember that there's hope for healing from sexual addiction!

Reference:

"6 Common Sex Addiction Myths Debunked by the Experts," by Hayley Matthews http://www.datingadvice.com/home-page-feature/6-common-sex-addiction-myths-debunked-by-the-experts

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