Female Sexual Compulsivity: a New Syndrome

Sexual compulsivity has been described as a disorder only since the early 1980s, although it is as old as history and as devastating as other compulsive behaviors that alter moods. Published studies on compulsive sexual behavior first involved white, heterosexual men. Although the scope has since broadened, little has been written about women who have this disorder. This article discusses women's sexual behavior, cultural views, and family of origin issues that contribute to the development of sexual compulsivity. Treatment strategies specific to recovery for women are suggested, followed by cases showing the specific ways that women express their disordered sexuality.