Posted by cubbybear on January 9, 2004, at 2:03:54
In reply to Re: sexual compulsives, posted by ian24 on January 8, 2004, at 22:21:00
I think it's great that you're brave enough to post on this subject. My opinion is that, probably everyone, to one degree or another, has some sort of an "addiction," whether it's to nicotine, alcohol, gambling, illegal drugs, sugar (like myself), or sex (like myself).
We can bat around the word "addiction" forever, as it has different connotations for different people. I define "addiction" as any strong passion or craving for anything that must be satisfied as soon as possible, followed by a rebound craving shortly after.
I realize that such a loose definition would probably encompass the world's population when you consider such favorite pastimes as watching television or playing video games.
What's really important is whether the person has been creating difficulties for him/herself in terms of finances, self-esteem, or relationships with others. If you feel compelled to spend X amount on prostitution every month but you can still live comfortably, pay your bills, and cause no emotional harm to yourself or others, then I say there's no problem.
But if you feel that you're putting yourself in a financial or emotional black hole over your addiction, then you'd best seek professional help in the form of talk therapy and/.or medication. In other words, when your craving turns into a form of enslavement that becomes crippling, it's probably time to do something about it.
I know it's easier said than done, but try not to be so brutal on yourself. Guilt and shame are the unnecessary side effects from Western culture which openly denigrates sex (for anything but procreation) as disgusting and "sinful."
poster:cubbybear
thread:297939
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040105/msgs/298451.html