In which decade was sexual addiction first discussed in a clinical context?

Sexual addiction began to be discussed in a clinical context during the 1980s when professionals in the field of mental health started to recognize the compulsive nature of sexual behaviors that resulted in personal and relational distress. The concept gained traction as various therapists and researchers began to outline characteristics of sexual addiction, drawing parallels to other behavioral addictions. This was also the period when the term "sexual addiction" started appearing in clinical literature, paving the way for more in-depth study and treatment approaches. The recognition of sexual addiction during this decade marked a significant shift in understanding and addressing compulsive sexual behavior within therapeutic frameworks.