Internet sex addiction is a new breed that is different from internet addiction as well as hypersexual disorder. Both of these disorders have components that relate to internet sex addiction, but is different in its specificity of the maladaptive behavior of utilizing internet sites to satisfy a hypersexualized need that interferes with daily activities and mood (Griffiths, 2011). These activities can complement offline activities or be a complete substitute for offline sexual behavior.
Internet sex addiction is being looked at for DSM-VI, and the American Psychiatric Association is using the elements of hypersexual disorder as a guideline, listed below (APA, 2013).
Pattern of behavior involving intense preoccupation with sexual fantasies, urges, and activities, leading to adverse consequences and clinically significant distress
Multiple unsuccessful attempts to control or diminish time spent in engaging sexual fantasies/behaviors
Symptoms last at least six months
Most identified addicts of internet sexual behavior are men (78%), and are classified as “cybersex compulsive,” utilizing the internet for sexual behavior for more than 20 hours per week (Griffiths, 2011).
These internet sex addicts also experience heightened tolerance for sexual gratification and symptoms of withdrawal such as restlessness, irritability, and poor job performance (Lambert, 2013). The neurotransmitter dopamine has been linked to cybersex addiction in a similar way as substance abuse.