Risk factors

Compulsive sexual behavior can occur in both men and women, though it may be more common in men. It can also affect anyone, regardless of sexual orientation. Factors that may increase risk of compulsive sexual behavior include:

• Ease of access to sexual content. Advances in technology and social media allow access to increasingly intensive sexual imagery and information.
• Privacy. Secrecy and privacy of compulsive sexual activities tend to allow these problems to worsen over time.

Also, an increased risk of compulsive sexual behavior may occur in people who have:

• Alcohol or drug abuse problems
• Another mental health condition, such as a mood disorder (such as depression or anxiety), or a gambling addiction
• Family conflicts or family members with problems such as addiction
• A history of physical or sexual abuse