Is there a relationship between sex abuse and alcohol and/or drug abuse?
A. Alcohol and drug abuse does not cause one to become involved sexually with a child. On the other hand, if one is already vulnerable because of an attraction to youngsters and then takes an intoxicating substance which will impair judgment and lower inhibitions, it’s like throwing gasoline on a fire. Q. Can stress turn one to abuse? A. Yes. We talk about the triggers that heighten the urges that people experience, and just as an alcoholic may drink to feel better when under stress, someone who has sexual difficulties may turn to sex to feel good during stress or depression or even boredom. Part of the treatment is to teach people about these triggers — either internal states, such as stress or boredom, or external situations, such as spending time in the presence of youngsters — which can heighten urges. Q. Do sex abusers feel guilty? A. Many sex abusers feel guilty once they begin to appreciate the harm that they’ve caused. When people have strong cravings and satisfying those cra
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