(024) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often used in the treatment for Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD). However, no review of the evidence on the clinical efficacy of CBT for CSBD has been conducted. Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) is characterized by a lack of control over sexual impulses, thought, phantasies and urges and may have serious negative consequences of a person well-being, families, and functioning in work and education (Kraus et al., 2018). The prevalence of CSBD in the general population ranges from 3% to 6% (Derbyshire & Grant, 2015) with a near 4:1 ratio of male to female (Kuzma & Black, 2008). Due to the negative consequences of CSBD people often seek professional help. Objective To provide a systematic review of published studies on the efficacy of CBT for Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder. Methods The material for the analysis was obtained by searching 4 internet databases: Scopus, PubMed, ResearchGate and the Cochrane Library. Articles describing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and their efficiency in reducing symptoms of CSBD were required. The search in the selected databased using the keywords identified in 203 records. Screening of abstract excluded 174 records and 29 records were assessed for eligibility. Four studies fulfilled the criteria for eligibility and were included in the study (see table 1). The selection process and reasons for exclusion of studies are shown in the Prisma flowchart (see Figure 1). Results 4 original research articles were included to the review (Hallberg et al., 2017; Hallberg et al., 2019; Hallberg et al., 2020; Nwokeoma et al., 2019). Articles were devoted to the analysis of the efficiency of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in reducing symptoms of hypersexual behavior. Studies show that CBT led to a significant reduction in hypersexual as well as symptoms of CSBD. Both RCT and non-controlled studies showed decrease in symptoms of CSBD after CBT. RCTs showed significant intermediate effects between treatment groups and control groups. Means (s.d.) on pre- and post-treatment scores of selected measures from included RCTs are shown in table (see table 2). Result indicate that CBT is a promising treatment for CSBD. However, studies included in the current review suffer from several methodological bias. Conclusions CBT show promise as treatment of CSBD. However, future studies should evaluate the treatment program with a larger sample in randomized controlled procedures and investigate the long-term effects; include women and comprise dismantling analysis of the constituting interventions. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Clinic for Sexology and Psychotherapy