Added on 23/02/10
Sex addiction has become a hot topic of discussion, after top golfer Tiger Woods confessed that he may be suffering from the condition.
The sports star apologised last week for a string of affairs that had been made public, leaving his reputation bruised, forcing him to put his golfing career on hold while he undergoes therapy.
So what counts as sex addiction? Essentially, it is exactly what you would imagine from its name: an obsession with sex that goes above the average interest.
It can be difficult for psychologists to ‘draw the line’ when it comes to identifying sex addiction. What counts as ‘normal’ when it comes to having sex? And is sex addiction a specific disorder, orto somebody who could just as easily be addicted to gambling, alcohol or drugs?
Ultimately, the definition of sex addiction is still being debated. But many psychologists agree that there is a clinical phenomenon of people becoming distressed, or running into trouble in their personal lives, as a result of too much sex. The most high profile cases include Tiger Woods, David Duchovny and Ulrika Johnson.
Sexual performance
The media furore surrounding Tiger Wood’s sex addiction continues. Yet as his problem is thrust into the spotlight, it is worth remembering that a far more common sexual dilemma, affecting millions worldwide, is the inability to have enjoyable sex.
Amongst men, sexual performance issues are remarkably common, affecting one in five. Meanwhile, many women experience Female Sexual Dysfunction: a condition wherein women lack the desire to be stimulated sexually.
Thankfully, treatments are available. Doctors and psychologists are gaining a better understanding of sexual performance problems all the time.
If there is only one admirable thing about Tiger Woods’ recent behaviour, it is arguably that he has spoken up about the problem. Taking this step can be extremely hard, but is a vital step on the route to recovery. If you are suffering from sexual performance issues, remember that you do not have to suffer in silence. Talk about the condition with a trained medical professional. |
