The Lived Experiences of Evangelical Christian Men Who Self-Identify as Sexual Addicts: An Existential-Phenomenological Study

Abstract

This existential-phenomenological investigation examines the lived experiences of evangelical Christian men who self-identify as sexual addicts. Individual interviews and follow-up individual interviews of six self-identified evangelical male sexual addicts were analyzed. The results of the study indicate that the male evangelical self-identified sexual addict lives through compartmentalized worlds. Only through the forced convergence of these spaces due to exposure along with the risk of extreme consequences do self-identified evangelical men surrender to change. After surrendering to change, these men willingly grasp the concept of sexual addiction, an identity that gives them a sense of relief. A growing dependence on a recovery program emerges along with a necessary and renewed reliance, appreciation, and understanding of God. The findings of this investigation illuminate the need for counselors to recognize the inextricable link between evangelicals and their relationship with God.