Abstract
Objectives
Compulsive sexual behavior (CSB) is overrepresented among adults with substance use disorders (SUD), yet there is no empirically supported CSB treatment for this population. Cross-sectional and single case designs supported dispositional mindfulness as a potential CSB intervention target. However, the relations between CSB and each of the five dispositional mindfulness facets remain unknown.
Methods
Extending prior research to inform intervention efforts, we reviewed medical records for 1993 adults (77.6% male) in residential treatment for SUD to examine gender differences in the relations between dispositional mindfulness facets (acting with awareness, observation of experience, describing with words, nonjudging of inner experience, and nonreactivity to inner experience) and five CSB indicators (loss of control, relationship disturbance, preoccupation, affect disturbance, and internet problems).
Results
For men, path analyses revealed that acting with awareness, nonjudging of inner experience, describing with words, nonreactivity to inner experience, alcohol/drug use and problems, and depression and anxiety symptoms related to CSB (p range .00–.04). For women, acting with awareness, nonjudging of inner experience, alcohol/drug use and problems, and depression symptoms related to several CSB indicators (p range .00–.04).
Conclusions
Mindfulness-based CSB interventions should evaluate the benefit of increasing intentional responses towards present-moment experiences among adults with SUD. Targeting alcohol/drug misuse, negative affect, and judgment towards thoughts and emotions may be beneficial.