Sex addiction, also known as hypersexual disorder, is a behavioral condition characterized by an overwhelming and compulsive desire for sexual activity that interferes with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Individuals struggling with sex addiction often experience a loss of control over their sexual behaviors, leading to repeated and excessive engagement in sexual activities, such as pornography use, frequent casual sex, or compulsive masturbation. This condition can cause significant emotional distress, anxiety, and even physical harm.

Sexual betrayal trauma occurs when an individual experiences emotional and psychological harm as a result of sexual infidelity, abuse, or violation of trust in a close relationship. This type of trauma can arise from discovering a partner’s affair, sexual manipulation, or being exposed to unwanted sexual behavior, leading to profound feelings of hurt, shame, and mistrust. Symptoms of sexual betrayal trauma may include anxiety, depression, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), flashbacks, and difficulty in forming or maintaining healthy relationships.

Formal sexual disclosures refer to the intentional sharing of personal sexual experiences, history, or behaviors with a partner and therapist in a structured, deliberate manner. This process is often a crucial step in building trust and openness within relationships, particularly when addressing issues like infidelity, sexual trauma, or sexual health. Formal sexual disclosures are typically part of therapy or counseling sessions, where individuals disclose sensitive information in a safe and supportive environment to promote healing, understanding, and emotional growth.