In summary, although a paucity of empirical data are available from which to draw definitive conclusions about the efficacy of treatments for paraphilias and paraphilia-related disorders, the scientific rigor of such studies has definitely improved in the past decade. Much of the effort to establish effective, empirical research-based treatment for paraphilias has been coordinated by the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers (ATSA; 10700 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, Suite #26, Beaverton, OR 97005-3035; http://www.atsa.com). Current treatment research in the field is available in Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment, published by the ATSA, and Journal of Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity, published by the National Council on Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity (NCSAC; 1090 Northchase Parkway SE, Suite #200, S. Marietta, GA 30067-6402; http://www.ncsac.org).

Men as well as women with paraphilias and paraphilia-related disorders remain a stigmatized population, analogous to the social ostracism previously experienced by substance abusers. Despite their association with sexual aggression and victimization, sexual disorders are also conditions associated with developmental vulnerability, psychiatric comorbidity, and punitive social judgment. It is currently nearly impossible for men and women with hypersexual disorders to “come out of the closet” and be regarded sympathetically. Perhaps continued research and effective treatments will one day help destigmatize these serious but understudied conditions and diminish the burden of shame currently associated with disinhibited hypersexual behaviors.

References