Is Harvey Weinstein a sex addict? Here’s what REALLY happens at a sex addiction clinic
HARVEY Weinstein has reportedly finished seven days of treatment after entering rehab for sex addiction.
We discuss whether or not its possible that the Hollywood producer has been battling with dependency...
What is sex addiction?
Relationship counselling service describe sex addiction as “as any sexual activity that feels out of control”.
Defined in this way sexual activity can cover practices like viewing pornography, masturbation, visiting prostitutes, excessive sexual fantasies or anonymous sex.
Signs of dependency can be increasing secrecy, isolation, moodiness and avoidance of couple, family and social responsibilities.
Other characteristics include compulsively jumping from relationship to relationship, getting caught up in fantasies and using sex to manipulate others.
Does Harvey Weinstein have a sex addiction?
Following accusations of sexual assault, alleges that Harvey Weinstein flew to Europe to check into rehab for sex addiction.
While this is yet to be confirmed, it has been reported that the movie mogul spent seven days in the facility before leaving.
, Professor of Behavioural Addiction, spoke to The Sun Online about this possibility.
The psychology expert, who works at Nottingham Trent University, believes that high profile celebs use sex addiction as an excuse for their infidelity.
He said: "In my view high profile celebrities use 'sex addiction' as an excuse for being sexually sexually unfaithful to their partners (e.g., Tiger Woods, Michael Douglas, David Duchovny, Russell Brand). Harvey Weinstein appears to fall into this group.
"Saying that you have a sex addiction is used to justify the individual’s serial infidelity. This is what we psychologists refer to as a ‘functional attribution’.
"For instance, the golfer Tiger Woods claimed an addiction to sex after his wife found out that he had many sexual relationships during their marriage.
"If his wife had never found out, I doubt whether Woods would have claimed he was addicted to sex.
"I would argue that many celebrities (like Weinstein) are in a position where they were bombarded with sexual advances from other individuals and succumbed or did the bombarding themselves (like Weinstein)."
What is the latest on the Harvey Weinstein allegations?
On October 5, The New York Times published an article about Harvey Weinstein's sexual misconduct revealing settlements with at least eight women.
The movie mogul then issues a statement admitting he has "caused a lot of pain" apologising for his actions.
He's fired by the board of the Hollywood business he launched - The Weinstein Company - with "immediate effect."
His growing list of accusers include Angelina Jolie, Asia Argento, Gwyneth Paltrow, Mira Sorvino and Ashley Judd.
The New Yorker claims three women have accused him of rape, allegations he “unequivocally denies”.
British wife Georgina Chapman announces she is leaving him saying: "My heart breaks for all the women who have suffered tremendous pain."
Weinstein reportedly heads for treatment for sex addiction and behavioural issues at a European clinic.
The Oscar winner's film credits include Pulp Fiction, Good Will Hunting and Django Unchained, Gangs of New York and Shakespeare in Love.
The FBI has now reportedly opened a probe into the claims against the movie mogul, amid suggestions he might flee the country like Roman Polanski.
Mylene Klass is the latest A-lister to accuse the producer of inappropriate conduct.
She told The Sun, Weinstein attempted to offer her a sex contract, but she told him to "f*** off".
Kate Beckinsale revealed how the producer targeted her in London, when she was just 17.
What happens at sex addiction clinics?
At sex addiction rehabilitation centres, they use a variety of different methods to manage emotional issues.
Dealing with mental problems such as depression, anxiety and trauma can sometimes help to overcome deep-rooted problems in relationships.
Patients' experiences in sex addiction clinics varies on a case-to-case basis.
While some are focused on therapy and counselling, others are prescribed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
For more information about getting help, it's advisable to visit your local GP for advice.
Specialist clinics, including at , also have information and advice available on their websites.
