Addiction comes in many forms.
Typically, when we say “addiction” we think of alcohol, drugs or maybe gambling. But we can have addictions to shopping, eating, not eating, reading, television, gaming, Facebook, checking emails, surfing the internet, magazines, exercise, pornography, sports, scrap-booking or sex. Anything that grabs our attention, pulls us into a place of needing it, and dictates our thoughts or actions has created an addiction. The ‘something’ we feel we must have; we can’t go without, shapes our lives and the lives of those we live with.
For decades I was shaped by the patterns of living with someone addicted to sex.
Over the following weeks, I will share what I learned through my experiences. I hope to help and encourage anyone feeling despair over your circumstances–either because you live with an addict or battle with addiction in some area. Most of us do to some extent at some point of our life. Recognizing patterns and symptoms can alert us to get the help we need. Honestly evaluating our particular situation is the first step in breaking free from the bondage of addiction.
While many patterns relate universally to any addiction (and some by themselves simply show a lack of growth in character or maturity), I’m relating the following patterns primarily with sexual addictions. Someone who is addicted to sex probably:
- Needs to be in control. The women in his fantasies do exactly what he wants and enjoy his power; therefore, he expects everyone in his life to submit to his desires. Sex makes him feel powerful and in control. He may use anger or violence to control his family, and may not acknowledge their needs or feelings since he has no control over those areas.
- Lacks respect for women. The degradation of women due pornography and prostitution causes the focus of a woman’s value to be on her ability to perform sexually or contribute materially. This can be particularly devastating for women choosing to stay home to raise children. That job consumes her time and energy without financial profit, and can leave her feeling worthless, especially if she can’t fulfill her husband’s sexual fantasies.
- Is self-absorbed. In a healthy relationship, each person desires to meet the needs of their spouse whenever possible, but an addict focuses entirely on meeting the desires of self regardless of how valid or pressing others’ situations may be. Family needs may be ignored. Someone addicted to sex can fulfill their needs almost anytime, anywhere because much of the stimulation and satisfaction comes from mental images. This constant, instant gratification makes it nearly impossible to put another person’s needs first.
- Uses manipulation. In order to get his way or keep his behavior hidden, the addict will often use whatever means necessary no matter what it costs. He may be kind and understanding one minute, making promises or begging forgiveness, then angry and violent the next. He may use guilt, self-pity or even whining to manipulate his family. In her book, The Dance of Anger, Dr. Harriet Lerner states, “If women are constantly made to feel guilty, they remain ‘in their place’ and are ineffective.”
To be continued…
It may be a grueling process to redefine who you are apart from the impact of these patterns, or to allow yourself to be extricated from a life of addiction, but there is hope.
Have you experienced any of these patterns either as an addict or living with one?It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.
Galatians 5:1
If you need help or would like prayer, please feel free to comment below or send me a private message at laurabennet14@gmail.com
Laura Bennet - Author 
Laura Bravo for addressing this subject head on and in such an intelligent way…yes I can relate from my own addiction and fantasy life….
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Thank you for your comment, Miriam. And thank you for your honesty too!
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First off I would like to say awesome blog! I had a quick question that I’d like to ask if you don’t mind.
I was curious to find out how you center yourself and
clear your thoughts prior to writing. I have had a tough time clearing my mind in getting my thoughts out.
I truly do enjoy writing however it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes are generally wasted just trying to figure out how to begin.
Any recommendations or hints? Many thanks!
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Thanks for checking out my blog! I’m so glad it was helpful. Truthfully, I pray. I’m always asking God what he wants to say through me. And I believe our experiences are meant to help and encourage others so I try to be as open and honest as I can about what I’ve struggled with. Sometimes, on a practical note I have to convince myself simply to write and not worry about what comes out. I’ve blogged about that in some of my Confessions of a Writer posts. Maybe you’d find those helpful.
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Thank you.
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Have you ever thought about creating an ebook or guest authoring on other websites?
I have a blog based upon on the same subjects you
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Yes, I would be open to that. Your site address doesn’t work so you would have to send me your email.
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Great post however , I was wanting to know if you could write a litte more on
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Thank you for reading. I’m glad you found it helpful. I will be posting more on this in coming weeks. Illness has prevented me from regular posts for a number of months, but it’s great to have input as to what people find helpful. Thanks!
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