Sex on the Internet: Observations and implications for Internet sex addiction

Some academics claim that social pathologies referred to as technological addictions are beginning to surface in cyber-space. One related area that deserves further examination is the concept of sex addiction and its relationship with excessive Internet usage. This article therefore overviews (a) sex-related uses of the Internet, (b) the concept of "Internet addiction" in relation to excessive sexual behavior, (c) cybersex and cyber-relationships, (d) cyber-relationship typologies, (e) the claims made for Internet sex addiction, and (f) the empirical data relating to Internet sex addiction. It is concluded that Internet sex is a new medium of expression where factors such as perceived anonymity and disinhibition may increase participation. It is also argued that although the amount of empirical data is small, Internet sex addiction exists.