

The Problematic Sexual Behavior Framework (with Bill Herring)
May 5, 2025
Bill Herring, a seasoned psychotherapist and creator of the Problematic Sexual Behavior Framework, dives deep into the nuances of sexual behavior and addiction. He challenges traditional labels like 'sex addict' and discusses the complexities of identifying these behaviors. Herring introduces the concept of Integrity Abuse Disorder, emphasizing the importance of foundational frameworks for understanding sexual patterns. Throughout the conversation, he advocates for personal choice and responsibility in navigating sexual health, urging a shift towards a more compassionate approach to these sensitive topics.
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Sex Addiction Label Limitations
- Some men with sexual behavior problems don't fit the sex addiction label because their behavior is driven by character issues.
- The old sex addiction model sometimes forces people into a narrow definition that doesn't capture their multidimensional struggles.
Shame Skews Addiction Diagnosis
- Shame and secrecy heavily influence sex addiction screenings and may cause false positives.
- Not all who experience shame and secrecy fit the sex addiction model, highlighting confirmation bias risks.
Porn Distorts Sexual Expectations
- Pornography and true sexual intimacy are completely different experiences.
- Watching porn is like learning baseball from highlights: it can't teach real intimacy or relational skills.