Scientists have explained the causes of sexual addiction
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Almost half of those who suffer from sexual dependence first encounter this problem before the age of 16, according to a new study conducted by the psychotherapist Pola Hall and a team of scientists.
"The emergence of this phenomenon, we largely owe much to easy access to pornography on the Internet, as well as inadequate sex education," says lead author Dr. Holl.
Experts say that these data are confirmed by the results of the survey, which shows that 40% of teenagers were engaged in viewing pornography before the age of 12 years. At the same time, 90% admit that this fact causes them a sense of shame.
The authors of the study say that the figures presented are the result of the direct influence of two factors: insufficient awareness of adolescents about sexual relations and the availability of pornographic material on the Internet.
In addition, it was found that half of the interviewed people in childhood was subjected to ill-treatment and acts that were accompanied by violence.
This can give an explanation of why some people develop and develop sexual addiction and what exactly is behind this predilection.
Dr. Hall identifies sexual addiction in its simplest form: uncontrolled sexual behavior that can affect not only the life of the person suffering from this disorder, but also the people who surround it.
Experts emphasize the difference between male and female attitudes towards sexual addiction. For help to professionals many more men than women are drawn - 57.3% of the stronger sex and only 38.3% of women. However, whoever is dependent on sex, the consequences of this condition are disastrous. Viewing pornographic materials can provoke addiction.
Most of the dependent women explained their sexual behavior "with the desire to be desired." Men, the main reason was called the desire to get a thrill.
65% of respondents had low self-esteem and almost half had mental health problems. Almost half of respondents experienced separation from their partner because of their addiction to sex, and a quarter admitted that this disorder provokes problems in their sexual life.
When the men and women interviewed were asked what had the greatest impact on the occurrence of their sexual addiction, the majority answered that the main role was played by the availability and lack of adequate information.
"The reason is that modern adolescents have absolutely free access to pornographic materials. It would seem that an innocent hobby can lead to serious consequences and make a person dependent, "- comments Dr. Hall.
Dr. Paul Hall and her team conducted the research by participating in a survey of 350 people with problems with excessive addiction to sex.