Patrick Carnes, one of the nation's leading experts on addiction has developed the S.A.F.E. Formula that is suggested as a guideline. Signs of compulsive sexuality are when the behavior can be described as follows:

• It is a Secret. Anything that cannot pass public scrutiny will create the shame of a double life.

• It is Abusive to self or others. Anything that is exploitive or harmful to others or degrades oneself will activate the addictive system.

• It is used to avoid or is a source of painful Feelings. If sexuality is used to alter moods or results in painful mood shifts, it is clearly part of the addictive process.

• It is Empty of a caring, committed relationship. Fundamental to the whole concept of addiction and recovery is the healthy dimension of human relationships. The addict runs a great risk by being sexual outside of a committed relationship.