The Double Standard of Stigma: Gender and Compulsive Sexual Behaviour

There is strong evidence suggesting that addiction is highly stigmatized. However, less research has examined stigma associated with compulsive sexual behavior (CSB; i.e. sex addiction), and findings yield mixed results. Further, few studies have explored the role of gender in stigma associated with CSB, particularly within the context of problem pornography use (PPU). Therefore, we examined stigma associated with CSB – specifically PPU – compared to other addictions and mental health conditions, and determined if gender had an effect. Participants (N = 750, 53% women) were randomly assigned to read one of several vignettes each depicting a different addictive behavior (CSB, gambling, alcohol), mental health condition (depression) or health condition (cancer). There were two gendered versions (man vs. woman) of each vignette. Participants answered a series of questions to assess various types of stigma (e.g. general attitudes, affective reactions, social distance) associated with each condition. Results suggested that CSB was often more stigmatized than other conditions. Stigma toward men with CSB was greater than toward women with CSB. These findings suggest that gender may play a role in how individuals with CSB are perceived. Understanding stigma associated with CSB is essential given the associated negative consequences, including barriers to seeking treatment.