Exploring sex addiction risk among neurodiverse adults

Abstract

This study examined sex addiction risk among adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using the Bergen-Yale Sex Addiction Scale. The research employed a cross-sectional methodology with 94 participants (48 ADHD-only, 24 ASD-only, 22 comorbid ADHD+ASD). Results revealed varied risk levels: 3.19% showed no risk, 26.60% low risk, 48.94% moderate risk, and 21.28% high risk. The elevated prevalence of moderate-to-high risk (70.22%) likely exceeds previous estimates due to methodological factors, including self-selection bias and self-reported diagnoses. Component analysis indicated that urges (craving) and preoccupation (salience) were most frequently endorsed, whereas conflict (negative consequences) and loss of control were least reported. Demographic analyses identified gender as a significant factor, with males reporting higher risk than females (p < .01). Relationship status significantly influenced risk scores (p < .001), with single, casually dating individuals showing the highest risk. Additionally, psychiatric medication use correlated with lower risk scores (p < .01). These findings suggest that sex addiction represents a trans-diagnostic vulnerability in neurodiverse adults, manifesting through similar mechanisms regardless of diagnosis. This research contributes to understanding neurodiversity and sexuality by challenging simplistic associations between specific neurodevelopmental conditions and sex addiction risk. The results support a neurodiversity-affirming approach that distinguishes between variant expressions of sexuality and patterns causing genuine distress.