2024-01-10 07:30:00
Introductory reminder: what does hypersexuality (or nymphomania) mean?
According to the definition given by the CNRTL (National Center for Textual and Lexical Resources), nymphomania is defined as a “ pathological exacerbation sexual needs in women due to physical or psychological causes and resulting in disordered behavior” (31). The clinical literature describes uncontrollable sexual behavior, either as a compulsive, impulsive or addictive disorder (source 2). “However, the term nymphomania is no longer used at all today. We will rather talk regarding a hypersexual personality disorder to describe excessive sexual behavior. Not to be confused with sex addiction,” insists Corine Rodrigue, sex therapist.
Hypersexuality and sex addiction, what are the differences?
“Sexual addiction is often considered a behavioral addiction, characterized by a compulsive and recurrent need for sexual activity despite negative consequences. On the other hand, hypersexuality disorder is more associated with excessive and uncontrollable sexual behavior,” explains the sex therapist.
In short: the two share similarities but will be approached differently in the field of psychology and psychiatry. The main difference lies in the way in which these two conditions are conceptualized. “Sexual addiction will often be treated through the lens of behavioral addictions, using approaches similar to those for treating other addictions such as alcohol or drug addiction. On the other hand, hypersexual personality disorder will be considered in a broader context of impulse regulation disorders,” explains Corine Rodrigue. We will come back to this at the end of the article.
How to recognize an “obsessed” person?
Among other things, fixation on sexual subjects, inappropriate comments or even insistent behavior can be signs of hypersexuality.
How do you know if you suffer from hypersexuality (nymphomania)? Thematic test
You may have hypersexual personality disorder if you answer yes to most of the following questions:
“Reactionary” aspect: do you want to make love once more immediately following a first encounter?
“You may be suffering from a hypersexual personality disorder if you feel the immediate need to restart sexual activity following having completed one,” notes the sex therapist. For some, wanting more will mean making love six to seven times a day, while for others it will only be one or two times, it all depends on the person.
Impulsive behaviors related to sexuality might indicate a disorder. Corine Rodrigue, sex therapist.
“Motivation” aspect: do you have the habit of making love to escape certain problems?
“You might suffer from hypersexuality if you have the habit of frequently using sex (masturbation, penetrative sex, etc.) as a means of escape or to deal with emotional problems,” continues Corine Rodrigue. This might, for example, translate into: you are angry and are you going to masturbate to release this “anger”. “ The constant search for sex to alleviate negative emotions may be an indicator of this disorder,” she says.
“Sensation” aspect: you don’t experience any pleasure during sexual intercourse?
If the answer is yes, you may well be prone to hypersexuality. Although this will depend on each individual: “The absence of desire during sexual intercourse, but the immediate need for sexual satisfaction at other times, may be a sign of hypersexual personality disorder. A dissociation between emotional desire and purely sexual desire during relationships may be an aspect to explore,” explains Corine Rodrigue.
“Behavioral” aspect: do you have, for example, a compulsive need to view pornographic material in order to masturbate?
“If, despite personal suffering and negative relational consequences, you persist in engaging in compulsive sexual behaviors, this might suggest a disorder. The real worry might manifest itself when a compulsive need arises, a necessity of systematically using pornographic material (film, podcast, magazine, etc.) during each masturbation session, for example” raises the couples therapist. Consuming this type of content several times a day is therefore an indicator to be taken seriously, especially when it is accompanied by suffering, embarrassment or a feeling of shame.
However, be careful not to confuse watching a pornographic film from time to time to “warm up” with the imminent need to do so to masturbate and “unload”.
Relationship aspect: do you have to interrupt a daily task to give in to “sexual obsession”?
Are you at work and can’t stop watching pornographic content or have the irrepressible urge to go to the bathroom to masturbate? These indicators are perhaps also a sign of hypersexuality. Accumulate several new partners per week or engaging in risky sexual activities may be a behavior associated with this disorder and might also be a reason to consult a professional (sex therapist, sexologist, psychologist, etc.).
Warning: the questions given above are of course given for information purposes only and do not in any way replace the advice of a professional. The latter will also be able to offer you more comprehensive tests such as the “Sexual Addiction Test” (source 3).
Hypersexuality disorder: why take it seriously?
Due to the consequences caused on the person themselves (discomfort, suffering, shame, drop in self-esteem, etc.) and on their relationship, if there is one (infidelity, feeling of betrayal, lack of trust …), hypersexuality must be taken seriously and lead to consulting a professional as quickly as possible. “It is crucial to emphasize that hypersexual personality disorder is a form of sexual addiction. If these signs are detected and cause significant distress, it is strongly recommended to consult a professional for an in-depth assessment and appropriate support,” continues the sex therapist. She adds: “Management of this disorder requires long-term follow-up, as the impacts can persist over time. Thus, it is important to find strategies to deal with the challenges associated with this disorder. Regular consultation with a professional can help develop these strategies and to ensure appropriate support throughout the care process. » Following cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), joining a support group, practicing an activity such as theater or even sometimes taking medication might also possibly help control these impulses.
Reminder: if you suspect hypersexual personality disorder in your partner, do not hesitate to talk to him regarding it to suggest that he consult a therapist, with or without your presence.
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