Discussion: sexual exploitation and out-of-control sexual behaviors

Out-of-control sexual behaviors are sexual health problems in which one lacks the ability to control their sexual urges, thoughts, or behaviors. These behaviors may lead to sexual exploitation or the act(s) of nonconsensual abuse or exploitation of another person sexually. As a counselor, we may work with clients who experience out-of-control sexual behaviors as well as clients who are survivors of sexual exploitation. In this week’s discussion board post, we will explore the role of rehabilitation among both populations.

Josef

Josef is a 27-year-old man. He has been married to his wife for 4 years. They have a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old, and his wife is pregnant. Josef has always had a higher sex drive than his past girlfriends and his current wife. In the past, he was able to masturbate regularly to porn to meet his desires. Josef has always been sexually aroused by younger women with small breasts and long hair. When Josef first met his wife, she had small breasts and long hair, but her hair has gotten shorter over the years and her breasts have gotten larger, especially with her current pregnancy. His wife’s sexual desire has also decreased drastically with each child and Josef began to seek sexual attention elsewhere. He went to some local bars and had occasional hook-ups with women in the bars and sometimes was invited to parties where he would meet women for one-night stands. He met Sophie at a local party and was instantly drawn to her appearance of long hair and small breasts. They began meeting every day and soon began having sex every day. He continued to meet women at bars and other parties some evenings, telling his wife he was working late.

Imagine Josef has come to counseling. Josef’s wife has “forced” Josef to go with her to couples counseling because, as she shared to their couples counselor, “Josef is cheating on me. I caught him texting a picture of his penis to some woman!” The couples counselor referred Josef to work with you individually. Josef is bright red and does not maintain eye contact. Knowing what you know about Josef, respond to the following:

• Share your emotional reaction if you were to work with Josef as his counselor. What emotions come up for you?
• Share your position on the degree/extent to which Josef may find a balance of healthy sexual behavior.