Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

Compulsive sexual behaviour (CSB) (previously known as hypersexuality, sexual addiction, and out-of- control sexual behaviour) is when an individual experiences sexual impulse or urges that are repetitive, hard to control in intensity, and results in impairment or distress in different areas of life (personal, occupational, social, or familial) (Marchetti, 2023). An important distinction is that the distress is less so measured by the potential emotional experience of shame, but rather by the intensity of the urges and whether they impede day-to-day life.

CSB typically begins to develop in late adolescence or early adulthood (during the post-secondary period). In the United States, lifetime prevalence rate ranges from 3–6% (Kuzma & Black, 2008); however, there are not enough studies conducted on this subject to ascertain the true prevalence. Additionally, the taboo nature of the topic results in less people coming forward with behaviours that may align with CSB. Individuals with CSB most often turn to masturbation, pornography, cybersex, strip clubs, and sex with various partners (anonymous or otherwise) as ways to meet their needs (Derbyshire & Grant, 2015).

Some key characteristics of CSB include:

• Frequent sexual activity and continuance despite negative effects
• Feeling as if sexual behaviour and thoughts are uncontrollable
• Distress due to health (e.g., sexually transmitted disease, unwanted pregnancy, mental health), financial, professional, and/or social consequences

It is important to note that high libido is not a definitive indicator of CSB. Having a sexual drive is akin to sleep and appetite: a natural part of life and living. Especially within post-secondary, students are entering a period where they may experiment with their sexuality and their reasons for doing so may vary.

There can be various reasons for individuals to engage in CSB and any “signs” must be assessed holistically, in relation to the individual’s unique life experiences. For example, various degrees of impulsive and increased sexual behaviours can be associated with substance use, manic episodes, medical conditions such as brain tumours, as well as medications that increase dopamine (Fong, 2006).

Individuals who struggle with CSB are also likely to be struggling with substance use, anxiety, mood, and/or obsessive-compulsive disorders (Ballester-Arnal et al., 2020). Childhood sexual abuse can also be a risk factor (Slavin et al., 2020).

Some ways for supporting students if they struggle with CSB are as follows:

• Education on consent and safe sex practices such as condom use, sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBI) screening, practices that minimize urinary tract infections and contraception options.
• Allocating a limited time to consume pornography or masturbate to minimize frequency.
• Allocating a budget if there are frequent visits to strip clubs, subscriptions to sexual websites, or accessing sex workers (whether in-person or virtual)
• Creating routines and social connections with peers, friends, and family to ensure support.
• Journalling or tracking CSB to understand its triggers, frequency, and circumstances.
• Minimizing the use of substances or alcohol.
• Psychosocial supports to provide structure, accountability, and community.

REFLECTION:

What are some ways you can show students that you are a safe and non-judgemental person to talk to about topics like sex and porn? What boundaries may you have? (In terms of extent of support, topic discussion or level of comfort.)

Resources