Epidemiology, Prevalence, and Natural History of Compulsive Sexual Behavior

Compulsive sexual behavior (CSB) is characterized by inappropriate or excessive sexual cognitions or behaviors that lead to subjective distress or impairment in one or more life domains. The disorder has an estimated prevalence of 3% to 6% in the US adult population. CSB typically begins in late adolescence or early adulthood, is thought to be chronic or episodic, and mainly affects men. The disorder includes pathological and conventional forms of sexual behavior. Associated substance use, mood, anxiety, and personality disorders are common. Other impulse control disorders are frequent as well, and there may be an association with ADHD. CSB can lead to medical complications including genital trauma or sexually transmitted diseases. Childhood sexual abuse may be an important risk factor.