Evaluating Links Between Complusive Sexual Behaviour Disorder, Substance Use, and Behavioural Addictions

The recent inclusion of Compulsive Sexual Behaviour Disorder (CSBD) in the ICD-11 has spurred a cascade of new research into out-of-control sexual behaviours. However, much remains to be discovered regarding the appropriate classification of CSBD and its relationships with other disorders. The present work seeks to understand more fully one such set of relationships: namely, the relationships between CSBD and other addictive disorders.

 

In March, 2022, a weighted, nationally representative sample of adults (N = 2,500) in the United States was collected. Alongside a variety of measures of compulsive sexual behavior and problematic pornography use, we will assessed substance use problems (using the NIDA-ASSIST-2), gambling disorder symptoms (using the PGSI), and gaming disorder symptoms (using the IGDT-10).

 

Using a variety of statistical methods, the present work examined how symptoms of CSBD and PPU will relate to a variety of other addictive behaviours at the population level. By extending this research to a weighted, nationally representative sample, we are able to test the degree to which CSBD relates to a variety of recognized addictions.

 

The results of the present work will allow us to draw inferences about the total clinical profile of CSBD. Though controversies regarding the nature of CSBD (i.e., impulse control disorder vs. addictive disorder) are likely to continue for the foreseeable future, understanding how CSBD relates to other recognized addictions will provide greater insights into appropriate ways to understand CSBD both in research and in practice.

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This work is funded by the Kindbridge Research Institute and the International Center for Responsible Gaming through grants awarded to Joshua Grubbs, Ph.D. and Shane Kraus, Ph.D.