What's in a Name? Terminology for Designating a Syndrome of Driven Sexual Behavior

TLDR

A clinically recognized syndrome of driven sexual behavior that causes distress or impairment is acknowledged, but its appropriate designation remains debated. The article evaluates common labels—sexual compulsivity, impulsivity, and addiction—to determine the most suitable terminology for the syndrome. The authors review the terminology options, argue against objections to the addiction label, and discuss its treatment implications.

Abstract

Most clinicians and researchers would agree that a condition exists in which a person's driven sexual behavior causes either subjective distress or functional impairment. However, questions remain about how this condition should be designated. This article considers the designations that are most often employed--sexual compulsivity, sexual impulsivity, and sexual addiction--and concludes that sexual addiction is the most suitable. Arguments against the concept of sexual addiction are then reviewed and addressed. Finally, the implications of the proposed terminology for treatment are explored.