A new study, published in PLOS One, looked at the neural characteristics of sex addicts. The researchers looked at the neural correlates of sexual cues in individuals with and without compulsive sexual behaviors. This research was novel in that it helped shed light on the neurology of addiction, rather than the psychology alone.

Ratings of sexual desire and liking were obtained from the study participants. Relative to healthy volunteers, subjects with compulsive sexual behaviors had a greater desire but similar liking scores in response to the sexually explicit videos. Exposure to sexually explicit cues in those with compulsive sexual behaviors was associated with activation of the dorsal anterior cingulate, ventral striatum, and amygdala.

According to Fox News, the researchers found that in people with sex addiction, or compulsive sexual behavior, pornographic images trigger brain activity similar to brain activity triggered by drugs in drug addicts. The brain regions stimulated are also hyperactivated in drug addicts when they are given drug stimuli. This study helps lend credibility to the argument that sex addiction is a disorder.

Since sex addiction is not included in the DSM-V, the main guide for psychology professionals, it is not known how many people truly suffer from the condition. Estimates of the prevalence of compulsive sexual behavior place three to five percent of the U.S. population within this disorder. The study authors note that the condition can lead to severe consequences for patients, as many of the men involved in the study had lost their jobs, were seeking therapy, and had suicidal ideations. This study may help change the way they are treated.