Evaluation and Treatment of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder and Co-Morbid Addictive Disorders: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This review aimed to synthesize recent literature on the comorbidity between compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) and addictive disorders, including substance use disorders (SUD) and behavioral addictions (BA). It sought to examine assessment practices, clinical profiles, treatment strategies, and transdiagnostic mechanisms to inform integrated interventions. Recent Findings: CSBD frequently co-occurs with SUD, though less research has emerged on the co-existence with BA. Compulsive sexual behavior often occurs as a maladaptive coping strategy for emotional distress and shared transdiagnostic factors—such as emotion regulation difficulties, impulsivity, and specific personality traits—underlie these comorbidities. Clinical assessments are heterogeneous and evidence for integrated treatment in dual diagnosis remains scarce, though interventions targeting emotion regulation and impulsivity emerged as useful strategies. Summary: The literature reveals substantial gaps in standardized assessment and integrated treatment for CSBD with comorbid addictive disorders. Findings underscore the need for multidisciplinary, transdiagnostic care frameworks and further research on shared mechanisms. Future studies should evaluate combined psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions to improve clinical outcomes and guide public mental health strategies.