The Routledge International Handbook of Sexual Compulsivity and Clinical Sexology

The Routledge International Handbook of Sexual Compulsivity and Clinical Sexology is a cutting-edge and comprehensive guide to understanding compulsive sexual behaviours (CSBs) in-depth in the twenty-first century.

Drawing on classic conceptualisations as well as the most recent research, the handbook evaluates and critiques undue pathologisation of diverse sexual behaviours, as well as identifying areas of concern for thorough assessment and treatment. It centres on the knowledge of clinical sexology and includes discussions around the diagnostic criteria of CSB disorder by the ICD-11 (WHO), filling the gaps in the literature with up-to-date scientific knowledge. It promotes multiple therapeutic modalities for treatment and considers perspectives from populations who have historically been harmed by pseudo-diagnosis, such as LGBTQ+ people and sex workers. All this takes place within a sex-positive lens, with robust ethical consideration, as well as curiosity and cultural humility. This handbook is a significant contribution to the literature on sexual compulsivity research and clinical practice, particularly in including diverse populations, erotic orientations, sexual minorities, and effective therapeutic methods. Topics include debating sex addiction versus CSBs, pornography-related distress, CSBs and trauma, kink-informed therapy, and more. The handbook includes crucial contributions in the field from an international team of specialist clinicians. It follows the great tradition of sexology in its sex-positive philosophy, innovative thinking, and respect for social justice.

This handbook is essential to psychologists, psychotherapists, sexologists, sex therapists, and psychiatrists. It will be useful for individual practitioners, students, and researchers in clinical sexology worldwide.