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Sexual Addiction: Diagnostic Problems

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Abstract

In recent years clinicians report a great deal of concern about definition, diagnostic assessment, and treatment modalities when dealing with what might be called out-of-control sexual behavior. Many terms have been used to describe the phenomenon of problematic sexual behavior. Many of these concepts overlap, some are no longer popular, and some are used interchangeably. Without clear criteria and definitions, the diagnosis is difficult, if not impossible, to assign. This paper compares problematic sexual behavior with the common heuristic explanations from the current literature, which identify the problem as a compulsive, impulsive, or addictive disorder. Accordingly, this paper will look at the current treatment models employed despite these controversies.

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  1. Widener University, Chester, PA, USA

    John R. Giugliano

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  1. John R. Giugliano
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Correspondence to John R. Giugliano.

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Giugliano, J.R. Sexual Addiction: Diagnostic Problems. Int J Ment Health Addiction 7, 283–294 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-009-9195-3

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