Dr. Marty Klein – http://www.martyklein.com – Articles
Dr. Marty Klein is a prolific writer and concerns himself with all things sexual. In his recent article titled Why “Sexual Addiction” Is Not A Useful Diagnosis — And Why It Matters, he tackles formulation of the concept of “sexual addiction.” His conclusion is that it’s a model of human sexuality that is moralistic, arbitrary, misinformed, and narrow. Amen!
“The concept of “sex addiction” really rests on the assumption that sex is dangerous. There’s the sense that we frail humans are vulnerable to the Devil’s temptations of pornography, masturbation, and extramarital affairs, and that if we yield, we become “addicted.” Without question, being a sexual person is complex, and we are vulnerable–to our sex-negative heritage, shame about our bodies, and conflict about the exciting sexual feelings we can’t express without risking rejection. Sexuality per se, however, is not dangerous–no matter how angry or frightened people are.
Furthermore, in addition to being misguided, it’s dangerous. It distances personal responsibility for sexual choices and it leads to treatment that does not approach the insight needed for symptom reduction, where there is a need for such. 12-Step programs are GREAT for many people with a variety of addictions. Not so much for those with sexual compulsions.