But things don't end there. That's because the brain also plays a big role in romance and sexual arousal. It has stimulant properties like cocaine and amphetamine. Levels of the chemical appear to rise with feelings of infatuation which, in turn, boosts euphoria and excitement. For the same reason that everyone who drinks a beer isn't an alcoholic and everyone who ever popped a pill or smoked a joint isn't an addict.
Sexuality is shaped to a great extent by learning, particularly within the family.
In fact, therapists say the family plays a key role in the development of sexual compulsion. Many sex addicts report some form of abuse or neglect as children and frequently see themselves as diminished or damaged in the process. Their parents, often sex addicts themselves, may attempt to compensate by raising their children with inflexible attitudes about sexuality. The cycle can repeat itself into adulthood. Sexual compulsion is often accompanied by complex, competing feelings of arousal and shame, excitation and embarrassment.