Episode Details

In this episode, Beth interviews Dr. Jeff Eckert, a psychologist who specializes in mens issues and sex addiction. Topics included the following: 

Paralleling sex addictions with other addictions, whether used to numb or activate, like a drug or other substance.

The neuroscience of sex addiction and the void in relational intimacy. 

Many sex addicts report feeling shocked and ashamed of what they’ve looked at or done. 

Dr. Eckert says many sex addicts have experienced a Relational void in their past. They yearn for connection, yet don’t know how to get it healthily, so they seek a fix through pornography or other unhealthy sexual behaviors because they want to avoid vulnerability. They seek control, they want to be the director and play it safe and avoid complexities. He shares John Mayer’s story with Sex addiction. Often the goal is to feel powerful and in control, reducing the threat of rejection and abandonment. 

Dr. Eckert also shares a bit about his own approach to discussing sexuality with children and adolescents. He recommends starting early and having multiple ongoing conversations. 

Resources: 

Wired for Intimacy by William Struthers

False Intimacy by Dr. Harry Schaumberg  

To learn more about Dr. Jeff Eckert, go to Roots Counseling Center

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