Are you a sex addict? How to determine sexual addiction

Intimacy and sex are an important and healthy aspects of a relationship. They are natural ways for a couple to enjoy their physical compatibility and fully connect. This connection, however, can become problematic when one partner is a sex addict.

Though one person in the relationship may feel they’re not getting enough sex, the other partner may feel they’re getting more sex than they want. This imbalance in sexual compatibility can cause issues. Understanding the characteristics of sexual addiction is one way to determine if you’re in a relationship of sexual dysfunction.

What is a sex addict?

The term “sex addict” is normally used to describe a person with an intense sex drive. This level of sex drive goes above and beyond what may be considered normal or acceptable. When a person’s thoughts are driven and dominated by sex, it’s considered obsessive, making it a challenge to engage in a healthy physical relationship.

Common characteristics

One of the most noted characteristics of sex addicts is their preoccupation with sexual behaviors. Their perception of sex is often distorted, causing them to justify and rationalize their behavior. For this reason they may act distant or withdrawn. They may show signs of an increase in sexual activity patterns, indulge in sexual humor, or present inappropriate sexual behavior in the form of sexual advances.

A person who displays these types of characteristics on occasion will not likely be considered an addict. However, a person who regularly displays these characteristics in an obsessive manner may be a sex addict.

Common behaviors

There are several consistent behaviors that are known to be associated with addicts. A person who consistently uses pornography, compulsively masturbates, uses prostitutes, has unsafe sex, participates in phone or computer sex, indulges in multiple extramarital affairs, or practices exhibitionism may be showing behavioral signs of sexual addiction. The use of personal ads for obsessive dating, molestation, rape, and sexual harassment are also considered behavioral signs of those with sexual addiction issues.

It is important for couples to spend time discussing their sexual wants and needs. Are you in a relationship where your partner often demands sex or completely withdraws from having sex with you? Does he or she complain about the lack of sexual practices, suggest practices that you aren’t comfortable with, or complain about the lack of sex in general? If so, you may be in a relationship with a sex addict and should consider seeking help.