Impulsive-Compulsive Sexual Behavior

Abstract

ABSTRACTImpulsive-compulsive sexual behavior is a little studied clinical phenomenon which affects ~5% to 6% of the population. In theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition-Text Revision, it is classified as an impulse control disorder not otherwise specified or a sexual disorder not otherwise specified. It may be placed in a possible new category in theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Editioncalled substance and behavioral addictions.This clinical entity is reviewed and the merit of classifying it as an addiction is assessed. Information is presented regarding its diagnostic criteria, epidemiology, types of behavior it can involve, relationship to hypersexuality, comorbidities, treatment, and etiology. The data regarding this disorder and its overlap with chemical addiction is limited. If the two disorders are to be grouped together, further data are needed.