Classification and clinical issues relating to hypersexuality

Abstract

Multiple terms have been used to describe excessive and interfering patterns of non-paraphilic sexual behaviors including sex addiction, compulsive sexual behavior (CSB) and hypersexual disorder (HD). While a field trial was conducted to investigate the reliability and validity of the criteria for HD, the condition was not included in DSM-5, with this decision in part relating to insufficient data on the proposed condition. Currently, CSB is being considered as a diagnostic entity in the category of impulse-control disorders for ICD-11. In this presentation, we will present data relating to HD/CSB. In particular, we will discuss current issues relating to diagnosis and classification, as well as data regarding the assessment and clinical correlates of sexually relevant constructs (e.g., pornography use and craving). Data relating HD/CSB behaviors to sexual risk-taking, sexually transmitted diseases and mental health problems (including suicidality) will be presented. A strategy for addressing HD/CSB in clinical settings will be proposed and discussed.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.