A Phenomenological Examination of Sexual Addiction and Social Isolation Comorbidity

Sexual addiction is viewed by mental health professionals as an unspecified sexual problem; however, for individuals and families, it forms a comorbid pattern of sexual addiction and social isolation. Previous research shows a correlation between sexual addiction and social isolation, especially to sexual addiction on the Internet. However, there remains an important gap in the current literature regarding the relationship between the coexistence of sexual addiction and social isolation from the addict's perspective, especially when it comes to addiction theory or why a person remains sexually addicted. Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to examine sexual addicts' perceptions of relationships between sexual addiction and social isolation. The study included an examination of whether sexual addiction and social isolation influence each other as the addiction pattern develops through phases of relapse and recovery. Eight male participants, self identified as sexual addicts, and recruited from the Sexually Compulsives Anonymous (SCA) Internet group, were interviewed. A semi structured interview was utilized with prompts and semi directed questions, and results were coded according to themes. Results show that sexually addicted males continue the addictive cycle, despite believing their Internet sexual addiction is destructive, with negative personal, social, and emotional consequences to their own real life personal relationships. Sexually addicted Internet users are more likely to be self centered males who maintain their sexual relationships online and remain socially isolated. The results enhance social change initiatives through an improved understanding of sexual addiction and social isolation for individuals, couples, and families, potentially helping others improve treatment methods for sexual addiction.