13. CAUGHT IN THE WEB: CYBERSEX AND ITS IMPACT ON INDIVIDUALS AND THEIR INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS

Abstract

With the current meteoric expansion in computer technology phonographic magazines and videos are fast being replaced by virtual intimacy and sex on the Internet. The affordability, accessibility and anonymity of the net offer a pseudo-intimacy less threatening and demanding than real life intimacy. The illusion of being in control, of constructing the relationship of your dreams can become quite addictive. This presentation will draw on current research and clinical data to illustrate how clients caught in the web find the compulsive behaviour patterns that emanate extremely destructive. With the passage of time such behaviour patterns can have a negative impact on an individual's psychological health, social relationships, work performance and most significantly, intimate relationships. The latter is a new factor contributing to distress in and the breakdown of couple relationships. The presentation highlights several 'warning signs' of a downward spiral and offers clinicians therapeutic strategies for working with couples caught up in this potential maelstrom. The computer hailed as a communication marvel, which was to facilitate 'connection', is fast becoming an instrument of 'disconnection' for those who are naïve enough to ignore its darker side.