Shame and sex addiction: through a cinematic lens
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Date
2014
Authors
Lee, Bonnie K.
Moore, Madison
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
SciTechnol
Abstract
Sex addiction has been a topic of debate. With the new DSM-V
(2013) category of Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
that now includes gambling disorder, other excessive behaviors
including sex are poised to capture increasing attention. Depiction
and clinical case studies of the progression and features of sex
addiction are limited in the research literature due to ethics of
confidentiality and the taboo nature of the topic. This article puts
a human face to the question of sex addiction through the use of
cinema as a ‘cultural text’ with the film Shame (2011). A framework
for addiction comprising of the 3C’s: (1) craving; (2) loss of control;
and (3) negative consequences, is used to analyze the protagonist’s
behavior. Parallels to alcohol and gambling disorders are drawn.
Momentous shifts in society’s sexual environment and norms that
currently re-shape sexual behaviors are highlighted. The article
points to avenues of research and its urgency to society and its
individuals. Clear neurobiological and behavioral markers to define
sex addiction can reduce shame and alleviate the suffering of those
afflicted through appropriate treatment. A fortified understanding
of sex addiction has significant individual, family and social
implications.
Description
Sherpa Romeo blue journal
Keywords
Sex addiction , Shame , Craving , Loss of control , Negative consequences
Citation
Lee, B., & Moore, M. (2014). Shame and sex addiction: through a cinematic lens. Journal of Addictive Behaviors, Therapy & Rehabilitation, 3, 1-6. http://dx.doi.org/10.4172/2324-9005.1000116