Normal versus abnormal sexual behavior in adolescents

Over the past two decades, the internet has allowed instant access to a wide variety of content, including sexual content that portrays a variety of sexual activities such as masturbation, oral sex, vaginal and anal intercourse, and group sex. During the normal sexual developmental phase (usually between the ages of 9 and 16 years), one of the most common sexual activities is consumption of pornography, either intentional or accidental exposure. In the United Kingdom, 53% of adolescents aged 11 to 16 years have seen online pornography at least once, and the vast majority have viewed pornography before the age of 14. In the United States, 20% to 30% of children aged 10 to 12 years have reported some exposure to pornography.

In most cases, consumption of pornography does not promote the development of mental health disorders and reflects a normal exploration of sexuality. However, in 10% to 18% of all adolescents, consumption of pornography reflects compulsive sexual behavior. The disorder is characterized by extensive pornography use and masturbation, use of paid sexual services, risky sexual behaviors, and an intense preoccupation with sex. These behaviors often lead to impaired social or occupational functioning, distress, and negative affect.

How can we identify compulsive sexual behavior among adolescents? And, what are the best practices to treat compulsive sexual behavior?