Question 1

What is sex addiction?

Accepted Answer

Sex addiction is a compulsive pattern of sexual behavior that continues despite harmful consequences and a desire to stop. It may include preoccupation with sexual thoughts, fantasies, or behavior; loss of control; negative consequences affecting relationships, work, or well-being; escalation; and withdrawal symptoms.

Question 2

What is pornography addiction?

Accepted Answer

Pornography addiction is a compulsive pattern of pornography use that continues despite negative consequences and repeated efforts to stop. It may involve persistent preoccupation with viewing pornographic material, loss of control, negative consequences in personal life, work, or health, escalation, and withdrawal symptoms.

Question 3

Am I a sex and/or porn addict?

Accepted Answer

Determining if you are a sex or porn addict involves reflecting on several key signs, symptoms, and indicators. Key indicators include persistent, intrusive sexual thoughts or urges disrupting daily life; repeated unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop sexual behavior; continuing sexual activity despite causing distress or harm; withdrawal symptoms; escalation; and feelings of shame, guilt, or secrecy related to sexual behavior.

Question 4

If I keep trying to break through a filter on my computer in order to watch pornography, is that a form of addiction?

Accepted Answer

Warning: Using any online questionnaire or Q&A as a form of diagnosis can be risky and is often unreliable. That said, with many addictions—both behavioral and substance-related—the 'hunt' or anticipatory phase can itself be addictive. Trying to get past a filter on your computer to watch pornography may trigger strong brain responses related to craving and motivation. Research suggests that this anticipation phase can produce dopamine (the brain chemical linked to motivation and reward) levels that are as high as or possibly even higher than those experienced during the actual behavior. Because of this, compulsively trying to bypass filters might be linked to behavioral or pornography addiction. This intense craving during the 'hunt' phase is thought to contribute to why relapse and compulsive seeking are challenging aspects of recovery.

David Fried M.S.W
Addiction Specialist

Israeli SW License
תעודת רישום

#48388

Addiction

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