ABSTRACT
Researchers have suggested shame is a complex emotion experienced as a painful, self-focused affect and is distinct from guilt. Additionally, research on the role of shame in sexually addictive behaviours has generally focused on individualswho exhibit ‘traditional’ forms of sexual addiction (such as men with a history of sexual abuse or attachment issues). However, very little is known about the role of shame in ‘contemporary’ sexual addictions with the increasing developments in technology. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of the empirical studies that have investigated the role of shame in sexual addiction and/or hypersexuality in adults.
