Research Proposal for Couples Counseling Problem

Sexual addiction is currently not recognized by the DSM-V as an addiction, and therefore some discrepancy among counselors about how to approach this issue exists, particularly when it comes to couples counseling. Research indicates, however, that sexual addiction is on the rise and that counselors require advanced training in this area to know how to treat it effectively and help couples address this issue that may be negatively impacting their relationship (Gilbert, 2014; Griffiths & Dhuffar, 2014; Karila et al., 2014; Rosenberg, Carnes & O’Connor, 2014; Phillips, Hajela & Hilton, 2015; Kraus, Voon & Potenza, 2016). In order to better understand how to help counselors address the issue of sexual addiction in couples counseling, there needs to be more research on how counselors themselves view this issue and whether or not they recognize it as something that serves as an obstacle for healthy relationships for couples.

Research Question

The research question posed by this study is: Are current couples counselors effectively trained and prepared to counseling for sexual addiction in the course of their couples counseling sessions or is there a dearth of preparation, skilled approach, and training for professional counselors...

This qualitative study will be useful in deepening the understanding currently held on this issue and may facilitate in helping professional counselors to address a topic currently not specifically addressed by the DSM-V.
Need for the Study

The need for this type of study with this type of design is evident in the fact that many researchers have identified sexual addiction as a problem but yet in the professional counseling sphere, which is guided by the DSM-V in terms of identifying mental health issues that require treatment, there is not much guidance in the way of helping patients or couples for whom sexual addiction is an issue. Understanding where professional counselors are on this issue and whether they need more training will ultimately be of use both to the field of counseling and to patients who may require help in this area.

Defining Concepts and Variables

Sexual addiction—a person who is not able to control sexual impulses. It is expected that not every counselor will…