Support Utilization by Partners of Self-Identified Sex Addicts

Abstract

This online survey examined the support resources used by partners of sex addicts. Partners (N = 92) answered questions about which sources of support they found most useful, relationship functioning, and demographic and background variables. Partners rated therapists, spirituality, support groups, and friends as most useful; and the mate, their children, and their other family members as least useful. Participants indicated that they used intrapersonal religious/spiritual activities (e.g., prayer and meditation) more than interpersonal religious/spiritual activities (e.g., religious services and support groups). Older partners sought more religious/spiritual support, and more educated partners rated therapy as more useful. Rating the mate as useful was most strongly associated with positive relationship outcomes. The authors conclude with recommendations for working with partners of sex addicts.