On the Brink of Paradigm Change? Evidence for Unexpected Predictive Relationships Among Sexual Addiction, Masturbation, Sexual Experimentation, and Revictimization, Child Sexual Abuse, and Adult Sexual Risk

Abstract

Our study provides evidence that the phenomenon of “sexual revictimization” should be re-conceptualized as: having sex more often—especially risky sex—simply increases the odds of encountering a partner who coerces sex. Retrospective data entered anonymously by 1502 women using computer-assisted self-interview supported the idea that repeatedly engaging in voluntary sexual behaviors despite having experienced coerced sex eventually leads to a re-occurrence before age 18. The score on the Hypersexuality and Risky Sexual Behavior Scale was the best single predictor of a participant becoming the victim of coerced sex after she reached adulthood and also the best predictor for her endorsing being sexually addicted. The most powerful predictors for the score on the Hypersexuality and Risky Sexual Behavior Scale were measures of engaging in masturbation and voluntary sex with partners before reaching age 18.