A Pilot Randomized Control of the Efficacy of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Depression and Hypersexual Behaviors in Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder

ABSTRACT This study was aimed to examine the efficacy of Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on depression and compulsive sexual behaviors in patients suffering from Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD). This was a randomized controlled trial in which 20 participants with sex addiction were assigned either to CBT treatment (n = 10) or a control group (n = 10). The study comprised of three phases including baseline, intervention, and 1 month follow up. Hypersexual behavior inventory (HBI.) and Beck depression inventory (BDI) were administered on both groups to gather the data. Participants who received CBT showed a significant decline in hypersexual behaviors and depressive symptoms following the intervention and the effect was maintained in the follow up phase compared to control group. CBT can be suggested as an effective intervention in controlling hypersexual behaviors and depression in Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder.