The Out of Control Sexual Behavior (OCSB) model teaches clients how to express themselves sexually while being in alignment with their values. It allows clients the freedom to determine their own vision Sexual Health. This vision is guided by a set of sexual ethics called the principles of Sexual Health.

These six principles are based on the Pan American and World Health Organizations definition of Sexual Health, which extends beyond the absence of disease and unwanted pregnancy to include a human right to sexual expression and pleasure. 

The six principles of Sexual Health have been distilled and integrated into the treatment of problematic sexual behavior by the creators of the OCSB model, Doug Braun-Harvey and Michael Vigorito.

Consent:

This is the fundamental principle of Sexual Health. Consent can be either implicit or explicit. Simply defined in this context, it means all parties are agreeing to move ahead with the sexual engagement. Consent can be given or taken away at any time for any reason.

Non-exploitation:

Only behaviors free of exploitation fit within the ethics of Sexual Health. Leveraging one’s power and control over another person in order to access sexual gratification is an example of exploitation. 

Deception, or withholding information, is also an example of this, as it creates a dynamic where two partners are not equal in their understanding, and therefore not equal in decision making power.

Honesty:

This principle entails honoring of the implicit or explicit relationship agreements, and the ability to engage in discussion truthfully when agreements are broken. Honesty is often a difficult choice.

Protection Against HIV, STI, and Unwanted Pregnancy:

This principle is about minimizing risk to health that could be a part of partnered sexual activity. Honoring this Sexual Health principle includes knowing your STI status, taking measures to prevent the spread of infection, and use of contraception.

Shared Values:

Each of us determines and carries a set of personal values with regard to relationships, sexual expression and behaviors. Integrity in a relationship is not possible without an alignment in values. Honoring this principle means knowing your own values and respecting the values of others.

Pleasure:

Experiencing pleasure contributes to our sense of happiness and wellbeing. We are wired to seek it. The Sexual Health approach makes space for the merits of pleasure and also calls to recognize pleasure as a motivator for sexual behavior.

Achieving Sexual Health ultimately comes down to the balancing of sexual pleasure with the rest of the Sexual Health principles. 

The Sexual Health treatment approach offers a framework for addressing the imbalance between pleasure and safety. If you would like to strive for this balance, help is available. 

What is your Vision of your Sexual Health?

About Nika, MSW, LICSW

Nika Gannon, LICSW is a sex and intimacy therapist, specializing in treatment of Problematic Sexual Behavior and attachment focused therapy. She works with individuals and couples in Washington state.