We are more than used to using the word “nymphomaniac” when we refer to that exclusively female psychological disorder in which the woman has a very active libido and an unstoppable obsession with sex. But, what is the exact word to define this problem in men? What is the name of the disorder in which having sex becomes an obsession for men?
The term is “satiromania” or “satiriasis” which is composed of the word satyr (cheerful and mischievous male creatures that in Greek mythology were often associated with sexual appetite) and the suffix -manía (which means passion).
Most of the times, the cause of the appearance of this disorder is unknown but other pathologies such as bipolar disorder or excessive consumption of alcohol or drugs can lead to a sexual behavior disorder.
To define the obsessive and uncontrollable desire for sex, currently the term hypersexuality is used more accurately, without distinction for men or women.
Compulsive sexual behavior is a condition in which an individual cannot have any control over their sexual behavior. Persistent sexual thoughts interfere with your ability to work, have relationships, and complete your daily activities.
Some people refer to compulsive sexual behavior as sexual addiction but, as we have seen, hypersexuality makes this concept better defined.
The addict is not satisfied with himself; They have no control over their actions despite the fact that their behavior forces them to suffer from reduced motivation as a result. As with all addictions, a sex addict, as time goes by, will need more and more stimuli to quell his need, even if this pleasure only lasts a moment and then shortly he will return to a self-destructive cycle in search of new ones. goals that will quench your discomfort.
The World Health Organization (WHO) included compulsive sexual behavior in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) and defines it as an impulse disorder “characterized by a persistent pattern of inability to control intense and repetitive sexual urges. or repetitive sexual urges. “
What characteristics indicate compulsive sexual behavior such as hypersexuality?
– Repetitive sexual activities that become a central focus of the person’s life, to the point of neglecting health and personal care or other interests, activities and responsibilities
-Numerous unsuccessful efforts to significantly reduce repetitive sexual behavior.
-Continuous repetitive sexual behavior despite adverse consequences or getting little or no satisfaction from it.
– Pattern of inability to control strong sexual urges or urges and resulting repetitive sexual behavior for a prolonged period, for example 6 months
– Persistent behaviors that cause marked distress or significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational and occupational function, as well as in other important areas.
If we can understand that gamblers or alcoholics should avoid games or alcohol, we could also understand that people addicted to sex or compulsive eaters (bulimics) cannot get rid of that addiction completely, because sex and food are necessary in the adequate amounts.
