24 Apr How Sex Addiction Manifest in Young Adults
Many characteristics of sex addiction include impulse control issues, obsessive thoughts and risky behaviour. In young adults, this is especially prevalent due to the way the brain develops into adulthood. The frontal lobe or the ‘mature’ part of the brain is responsible for rationalizing, controlling impulses and assessing responses to emotional situations. As the frontal lobe is not yet fully developed, it is much harder for young adults to control these urges and puts them at a higher risk of sexual disorders.
As adults, we are able to look at a situation and have foresight into the consequences of our behaviour. Sure, an adult with developed sexual addiction struggles to resist these urges but, more often than not, they are aware of the negative consequences their behaviour is causing, but are compelled to do it anyway. A young adult who is suffering from a sexual disorder may not only have difficulty resisting their urges, but may also fail to comprehend the consequences of their actions. This puts them at an even higher risk of partaking in risky sexual encounters and potentially dangerous, life threatening situations. This can result in feelings of shame, guilt and intense negative emotions which can further escalate the sex addiction.
Young adults are exposed to a very sexualised world. With the rise of internet pornography and the ability to access almost any adult content they can think of; teens and young adults have been thrust into an adult world. They are constantly surrounded by sexualised images by the media and celebrities and it is this constant flow of stimuli that creates an environment where sex addiction and other sexual disorders can thrive.
Young adults showing signs of sexual addictions and disorders should seek help and guidance from an experienced therapist. Ongoing counselling is the most effective way to overcome sex addiction. To get help, contact us today.