DSM-IV Axis I Psychopathology in Males with Non-Paraphilic Hypersexual Disorder

Abstract

Non-paraphilic hypersexual disorder, also described as sexual addiction/compulsivity, is associated with significant, adverse, social, and public health consequences. Despite differences in their appellative designation, this condition is commonly associated with psychiatric Axis I (and Axis II) comorbidities. The extant and recent clinical and research describing concurrent Axis I diagnoses is reviewed. Despite methodological differences in assessment, hypersexual disorder shares a high degree of Axis I comorbidity with both unipolar and bipolar mood disorders, anxiety disorders, especially generalized and social anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder—inattentive subtype, and psychoactive substance-abuse disorders. The aforementioned Axis I disorders, like hypersexual disorder, also share early age of onset and association with other sensation-seeking and risk-taking behaviors.