Conceptualization of Hypersexual Disorder with the Behavioral-Cognitive Inhibition Theory

Nenad Paunović,Jonas Hallberg

doi:10.4236/psych.2014.52024

Abstract

Hypersexual disorder is conceptualized with the behavioral-cognitive inhibition (BCI) theory. The current article focuses on the following aspects: (a) triggers of dysfunctional sexual behaviors and fantasies, (b) dysfunctional beliefs of excessive sexual behaviors and fantasies, (c) negative interpretations of triggers of sexual behaviors and fantasies, (d) excessive sexual behaviors and fantasies as avoidance behaviors, (e) consequences of excessive sexual behaviors and fantasies vs. healthy coping strategies, (f) sexual behaviors as inhibitors of distressing memories associated with negative beliefs, (g) sexual fantasies and other valued memories as inhibitors of dysfunctional memories associated with negative beliefs, and (h) behavioral activation of valued activities as inhibitors of sexual behaviors and distressing memories. Some important issues are discussed.

Highlights

The aim of this article is to conceptualize hypersexual disorder, in accordance with the proposed criteria for the DSM-V, with the behavioral-cognitive inhibition theory
The behavioral-cognitive inhibition theory was first introduced in order to conceptualize posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychopathology disorders (Paunovic, 2010b)
Sexual behaviors can likewise function as inhibitors to distressing non-sexual related memories associated with negative beliefs. In this context sexual behaviours may have a positive function insofar as they may therapeutically inhibit distressing memories associated with negative beliefs

Summary

Introduction

The aim of this article is to conceptualize hypersexual disorder, in accordance with the proposed criteria for the DSM-V, with the behavioral-cognitive inhibition theory. The current conceptualization has been developed by taking into consideration (a) important factors in current conceptualizations and treatments of hypersexual-related disorders (Adams & Robinson, 2001; Gilliland, South, Carpenter, & Hardy, 2011; Giugliano, 2006; Hardy, Ruchty, Hull, & Hyde, 2010; Howard, 2007; Kingston & Firestone, 2008; Klontz, Garos, & Klontz, 2005; Putnam, 2000; Robinson, 1999; Samenov, 2011; Yoder, Virden, & Amin, 2011), and (b) the authors clinical experience with hypersexual disorders in the context of a current research project The aim of this project is to develop an effective cognitive-behavioral treatment for hypersexual disorder. External non-sexual-related triggers include (a) individuals, situations or events that elicit negative emotions, (b) current distress, stress or crisis, or (c) stimuli that elicit positive emotions and sexual feelings or interest

Sexual behavior triggers

Consequences

Discussion