The Difference Between Healthy and Unhealthy Sex
Learning how to distinguish healthy sex from other forms of sex can empower you to bring Healthy Sex more into your own life.
The chart below outlines how healthy sexuality differs from abusive sex and addictive sex.
| Sexual Abuse and Addiction | Healthy Sex |
|
Sex is uncontrollable energy
|
Sex is controllable energy |
| Sex is an obligation | Sex is a choice |
| Sex is addictive | Sex is a natural drive |
| Sex is hurtful | Sex is nurturing, healing |
| Sex is a condition for love or devoid of love | Sex is an expression of love |
| Sex is "doing to" someone | Sex is sharing with someone; sex is part of who I am |
| Sex is void of communication | Sex requires communication |
| Sex is secretive | Sex is private |
| Sex is exploitative | Sex is respectful |
| Sex is deceitful | Sex is honest |
| Sex benefits one person | Sex is mutual |
| Sex is emotionally distant | Sex is intimate |
| Sex is irresponsible | Sex is responsible |
| Sex is unsafe | Sex is safe |
| Sex has no limits | Sex has boundaries |
| Sex is power over someone | Sex is empowering |
| Sex requires a double life | Sex enhances who you really are |
| Sex compromises your values | Sex reflects your values |
| Sex feels shameful | Sex enhances self-esteem |
APA Reference
Staff, H.
(2021, December 21). The Difference Between Healthy and Unhealthy Sex, HealthyPlace. Retrieved
on 2024, November 21 from https://www.healthyplace.com/sex/good-sex/the-difference-between-healthy-and-unhealthy-sex
Last Updated: March 25, 2022
