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Sex and the Executive: The Drama of Sexual Addiction
This article sheds light on the problems associated with sexual addition, using a lengthy case example of a businessman prone to this disorder. It asserts that, when sexual thoughts and activities completely consume a person’s life, it can be labelled as a ‘sexual addiction’. Notwithstanding the stress that these sexual addicts experience, these people seem to be unable to stop or change their particular sexual behavior patterns. It is alleged that they use their sexual activities as a form of self-medication to manage underlying emotional conflicts. Furthermore, it suggests that sex addicts may be trying to mask their insecurities by overpowering them with sex. The article also points out how their behavior can have a destructive effect on their relationships with their partners, family, and friends. In addition, it may affect their work, cause financial and legal problems (having contacted sex workers), and may even endanger their health. The article also clarifies that, if sex isn’t a shared act between two partners, it only promotes solitary auto-arousal that precludes care and intimacy. But as suggested, sex addicts seem to confuse sensuality with sexuality. To clarify the difference, it points out that sexuality per se refers to the physiological responses of sexual stimulation, while sensuality includes a real appreciation of the other person. It implies therefore that sex addicts may use their sexual highs as a substitute for a longed-for support and intimacy that they are afraid to experience. In fact, it suggests that, underneath their compulsive sexual needs, there appears to be a deep desire to be loved and to assuage feelings of loneliness. This article also includes a self-assessment test that appraises whether a person suffers from a sexual addiction. Although research about this subject tends to be rather limited, it suggests that sex addiction is much more common than most people realize, and its explanation appears to include biological, psychological and societal factors. It is pointed out that some of the theories as to why sex addiction occurs tend to be of a more neurophysiological nature whilst others are more developmental. From a neurological perspective it refers to the theory that sexual addiction may be due to abnormalities on both temporal lobes. A contrasting hypothesis that adopts a developmental point of view, is that, for these people, sex has become a way of escaping from various emotional and psychological problems which may include coping with early trauma, including sexual trauma. The article also includes a discussion of various forms of treatment. One option presented is a psychopharmacological one, suggesting that certain anti-depressant and hormonal drugs may help to reduce these people’s sexual drive. Another suggested form of treatment is that of one-on-one cognitive or psychodynamic therapy. In addition, group-oriented forms of intervention are referred to, including impatient treatment centers. In some instances (if appropriate), couple or family counseling may be the treatment of choice; a further option this article cites is a 12-step program similar to the recovery model adopted by Alcoholics Anonymous, such as Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA). This article concludes by reiterating the fact that sex and sexual reproduction are a natural and everyday part of life. However, contrary to animals, people are endowed with reasoning powers that include the ability to make independent decisions about their sexual endeavors above and beyond instinctual compulsions. In other words, Homo sapiens has a choice with respect to their sexual behavior. From a societal perspective, it also points out that sex can be a force for both the good and bad, using the drama of sex addiction as an illustrative case. Once more, the article reinforces the negative societal impact of sex addiction. Unfortunately, as is alluded to throughout the article, sex addiction is often shrouded in a conspiracy of silence, but as a relatively common disorder that has significant personal and public health ramifications, it is time to consider this addiction more seriously and implement more societal action.
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