A Current Understanding of the Behavioral Neuroscience of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder and Problematic Pornography Use

Abstract

In the recently released eleventh edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) was for the first time included and classified as an impulse control disorder. The present report aims at summarizing the empirical results concerning the neurobiological underpinnings of CSBD, including problematic pornography use. Insight into mechanistic factors underlying CSBD may promote the development of more effective therapeutic interventions for people affected. Recent neurobiological studies have revealed that compulsive sexual behaviors are associated with altered processing of sexual material and differences in brain structure and function. Although few neurobiological studies of CSBD have been conducted to date, existing data suggest neurobiological abnormalities share communalities with other additions such as substance use and gambling disorders. Thus, existing data suggest that its classification may be better suited as a behavioral addiction rather than an impulse-control disorder.