The difficulty here it that so much of the compulsion is internal. It therefore requires that an individual be honest with him/herself and fight off the tendency toward denial. An individual who can do this has the potential to deal with sexual compulsion before it reaches an addictive state; many people cannot. The following are guidelines for self-evaluating compulsive behavior:

1. Sexual behavior is used to change one's mood rather than to express intimate affection.

2. The sexual behavior has to be kept behavior creates pain or problems for the individual or others. Degrading oneself or exploiting others is a symptom of sexual addiction.

3. The behavior has to be kept secret. Behavior that cannot be shared with another individual indicates guilt and shame and lead to a double life.

4. The relationships involved are devoid of genuine concern or commitment. This is because the addict uses sex to avoid genuine relationship.

Fundamental to the whole concept of addiction and recovery is the healthy dimension of human relationships.  The addict runs a great risk by being sexual outside of a committed relationship.

These are warning signs. They indicate escalating sexual compulsiveness. They are only helpful to the individual who is willing to be painfully honest with him/herself.