Compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) and problematic pornography use (PPU): A comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and expert-informed narrative review with suggested future directions

Ince, Campbell and Antons, Stephanie and Ashton, Sarah and Borgogna, Nicholas C. and Brand, Matthias and Briken, Peer and Castro-Calvo, Jesus and Chen, Lijun and Coleman, Eli and Efrati, Yaniv and Fernandez, David P. and Fuss, Johannes and Gleason, Neil and Gola, Mateusz and Jennings, Todd L. and Kowalewska, Ewelina and Kraus, Shane W. and Lewczuk, Karol and Grubbs, Joshua B. and Lew-Starowicz, Michal and Love, Todd and Mestre-Bach, Gemma and Potenza, Marc N. and Rahm-Knigge, Ryan L. and De Tubino Scanavino, Marco and Stark, Rudolf and Demetrovics, Zsolt and Bothe, Beata (2026) Compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) and problematic pornography use (PPU): A comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and expert-informed narrative review with suggested future directions. JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL ADDICTIONS, 15 (1). pp. 32-98. ISSN 2062-5871

Preview

Text 2006-article-p32.pdf Download (3MB) | Preview

Abstract

Background and aims The nature and classification of dysregulated sexual behaviors remain widely debated. Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) and Problematic Pornography Use (PPU) are the two most commonly studied constructs in this area, each carrying significant implications for mental health, interpersonal functioning, and broader well-being. Although scientific output on these topics has expanded rapidly in the past decade, recent reviews have tended to focus on specific subthemes, single constructs, or narrow disciplinary perspectives. Accordingly, this review provides an updated and interdisciplinary overview of empirical and theoretical knowledge. Methods In this narrative review, we summarize current knowledge regarding CSBD and PPU, with contributions from diverse experts across multiple disciplines (e.g., psychology, psychiatry, sexology, addiction science, neuroscience). We provide research and clinical perspectives to ensure a comprehensive and balanced discussion. Results We extensively summarize eleven key areas, namely historical context, conceptualization and symptomatology, assessment and measurement, epidemiology, co-occurring disorders, etiology, potential negative consequences, intervention, treatment, and policy considerations. Additionally, we consider underrepresented populations and contexts, including adolescents, LGBTQ+ (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, and other diverse identities) individuals, women, and cultural factors. The review concludes with a critical discussion of prevailing controversies, methodological challenges, and key directions for future research. Discussion and Conclusions By providing a comprehensive and integrative overview, this work aims to advance scientific discourse, promote interdisciplinary collaborations, inform clinical practice, and support public health initiatives in the field of CSBD and PPU.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item