Disease Model of Addiction

Is this sin or is it an addiction? That’s one of the most frequently asked questions about sexual addiction. Our answer is “Yes!” Sexual addiction is both.

At Bethesda Workshops, we unequivocally identify inappropriate sexual and relationship behaviors as sin. We don’t sugarcoat that reality. At the same time, we believe the “sin model” as it’s normally understood is inadequate to describe this problem and its solution.

Sexual addiction is a multi-faceted problem with physical, mental, emotional and relational components as well as a spiritual aspect. Sex addiction begins with the choice to commit some kind of sexual sin. Over time, though, as the behavior is repeated, it can cross the line from sexual sin to the point of addiction.

An addiction is the use of any substance or engagement in any behavior that is obsessive, compulsive, and continues despite adverse consequences. The apostle Paul well describes addiction (though probably unintentionally) when he writes in Romans 7, “I don’t understand what I do. The good that I want to do, I don’t do; and the evil I don’t want to do, I keep on doing. What a wretched one I am!” (paraphrased). Compulsive behavior requires a plan that is multifaceted and efforts to stop apart from a robust plan will fail. While spiritual disciplines are the foundation for all healing,  sexual addiction recovery requires treatment of the mind and body as well in addition to the soul. Research and informed clinical thought view addiction, including sexual addiction, as a neurobiological disease.

When we use the disease model, we in no way absolve individuals of responsibility for their sin and their healing. We simply mean that there are many components to sexual addiction, and it’s necessary to tackle them all through wide-ranging tactics.