• We use sexual thoughts and behaviors as our primary coping methods.
  
• We use sexual arousal as our drug of choice.
  
• We have a pattern of compulsive, out of control sexual behaviors; Behavior that is either illegal, illicit, or believed to be “bad”
  
• We experience harmful consequences to ourselves and others due to our sexual behaviors.
  
• We lack emotional intimacy.
  
• We are preoccupied with sex and sexual fantasies.
  
• We progress to more out-of-control behaviors as our tolerance increases.
  
• We may have periods of control or strict abstinence.
  
• We may control our behaviors while continuing our sexual obsessions.
  
• We experience mood shifts around our sexual acting out: such as anger, fear, guilt, remorse.
  
• We often experience depression and suicidal ideations.
  
• We have a hierarchy of acting out behaviors such as affairs, masturbation, seduction/cruising.
  
• We have a family history of sexual shame and/or addiction.
  
• We are often victims of childhood sexual, physical and/or emotional abuse.
  
• We ritualize our sexual behaviors.
  
• We feel extreme shame about sex.
  
• We lack a healthy sexual identity.
  
• We associate excitement and risk with sex.
  
• We have sexualized needs for affection
  
  

ADDICTIVE SEXUALITY:

• Feels shameful, is illicit, stolen or exploitative.
  
• Compromises values.
  
• Draws on fear for excitement.
  
• Re-enacts childhood abuses.
  
• Creates a world of delusion.
  
• Is self-destructive and dangerous.
  
• Uses conquest and power.
  
• Serves to medicate and kill pain.
  
• Is dishonest.
  
• Has secretive, double life.
  
• Is driven, compulsive.
  
• Has no boundaries.