Psychotherapist and Clinical Sexologist, Dr. Joe Kort, discusses sex and porn addiction in the gay community. Topics include defining addiction, compulsion vs. addiction, struggles with intimacy, treatment methods, and supporting oneself. The podcast explores societal pressures, emotional connections, and navigating porn addiction and recovery. Dr. Kort emphasizes the importance of addressing shame, trauma, and fostering healthier relationships with porn consumption.
Focus on understanding underlying reasons for compulsive behaviors instead of labeling them as addiction.
Integrating self-awareness, exploring past experiences, and embracing self-compassion can enhance intimacy and address compulsive sexual behaviors effectively.
Deep dives
Understanding Sex Addiction and the Myth Surrounding It
The term 'sex addiction' is often culturally created and lacks scientific validation according to Dr. Court. He emphasizes educating individuals on the true nature of sexual problems and addiction, rejecting the notion of sex addiction. Dr. Court suggests focusing on the individual's experience, understanding the underlying reasons behind compulsive behaviors, and promoting self-compassion instead of labeling behaviors as addiction.
Differentiating Between Addiction and Compulsion
Dr. Court highlights the distinction between addiction and compulsion, expressing support for using the term 'sexual compulsion' over 'sex addiction.' He emphasizes that compulsion involves behaviors done against one's will and without conscious control. By understanding the individual's experience and avoiding blanket addiction labels, a more nuanced approach to addressing out-of-control sexual behaviors can be achieved.
Intimacy Literacy and Exploring Emotional Avoidance
The importance of intimacy literacy is discussed, focusing on understanding attachment styles and emotional avoidance. Dr. Court and the host delve into the impact of trauma, interpersonal relationships, and attachment disorders on intimacy. They emphasize self-awareness, exploring past experiences, and integrating shadow aspects of the self to enhance intimacy.
Promoting Self-Compassion and Reshaping Perspectives on Porn Literacy and Intimacy
Dr. Court advocates for self-compassion and dismantling shame associated with watching porn, emphasizing that it can be a form of self-care. The concept of porn literacy is introduced, encouraging intentional engagement with porn to understand its underlying meanings. Reflecting on intimacy literacy, the importance of self-exploration, shadow work, and creating safe spaces for genuine connections within the gay community is highlighted.
In this episode Matt interviews Psychotherapist and Clinical Sexologist, Dr. Joe Kort about Sex and Porn Addiction. Dr. Kort shares his 36 years of clinical experience working with sex addiction and compulsive sexual behaviors. In this episode we unpacked the following questions:
How do you define addiction?
What is the difference between compulsion and addiction?
How come you stopped labeling it sex addiction and now refer to compulsivity instead?
Why do gay men tend to struggle with sex and porn compulsivity?
What are your thoughts on gay men and intimacy disorders?
How does sex and porn compulsions impact one’s ability to develop intimacy?
What is a common course of treatment you would used to treat sex and porn compulsions?
What is one thing someone struggling with sex and porn compulsions can do to support themselves?