Online Sexual Problems: Assessment and Predictive Variables

Abstract

Abstract In this study of online sexual activity (OSA), a small subgroup (6.48%) of males self-identified as having online sexual problems (OSP) as a result of their online sexual behavior. There were only minor demographic differences between the OSP and the non-OSP groups. However there were a number of items that did differentiate these two groups (hours online, reasons for engaging in OSA, etc.) and these were elucidated. The research finds that most people who engage in OSA do not show evidence of problems as a result of their usage, yet at the same time there are a significant minority who do indeed report averse consequences. It is hoped that having a better understanding of the differences between these two groups will help clinicians and researchers interested in identifying variables for assessment, treatment, and prevention of OSP.