Our Focus
The American Foundation for Addiction Research (AFAR) envisions a world where sex addiction is universally acknowledged, understood, and accepted as a mental health disorder. Through pioneering research, public education, and persistent advocacy, we strive to create a world where individuals, families, and communities can experience freedom from the disease of sex addiction.
Our Focus and History
Since its inception in 1991, AFAR has been dedicated to research and advocacy concerning sex and porn addiction. Our focus is encompassed by three broad areas
Our Three Pillars:
- WAdvocate for the Sex Addiction/Betrayal Trauma Community: Champion a Sex Addiction Diagnosis to be included in the DSM. Develop effective public relations campaigns to increase awareness and reduce stigma.
- WSupport and Fund Research: Support the publication of scientific journal articles based on pioneering AFAR funded sex addiction genome-wide association study (GWAS). Identify and support research that will further the understanding and treatment of sex addiction and betrayal trauma.
- WProvide Public Education: Construct a comprehensive, easily accessible database showcasing all research backed by AFAR. Establish a user-friendly database cataloging scientific journal articles pertaining to sex addiction and betrayal trauma
Sex Addiction is a catastrophic threat to our children now and for future generations to come.
We’ve targeted sex and porn addictions because of their explosive growth and destructive potential. In fact, sexual addiction is growing exponentially among young people. Addiction rates are increasing in our children faster than any other age group due to the access, anonymity and affordability of the internet.
History
Founded by Patrick Carnes, PhD, AFAR fosters innovations in scientific research, understanding and dissemination of knowledge about addiction disorders. AFAR advances the field of addiction medicine in neuroscience and brain chemistry, substance abuse and process addictions, such as gambling and sex. Dr. Carnes, a pioneer in the field of sexual addiction has made innovations in sexual compulsivity, trauma and outcome measurement through scientific research, treatment and education. He founded AFAR to fund research that influences public policy in addiction.
An author of more than two dozen books on sexual addiction and trauma, Dr. Carnes created the Sexual Addiction Screening Test – which is the gold standard in assessment and treatment. A partnership between AFAR and University of Southern Mississippi made this research possible. Since 2012 AFAR’s research has focused on sexual addiction. More than 40 scientific articles have been written based upon this work.
Research Projects
AFAR creates lasting solutions for all addictions.
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