Validation of a brief sex addiction screening instrument (PATHOS) and prediction of sex addiction in the Iranian population

Sex addiction is a major psychiatric disorder in which a person is compelled to participate
in sexual activities despite negative consequences. This study was conducted to localize a brief sex
addiction screening instrument (PATHOS) for use in the Iranian population and to determine variables
predictive of sex addiction in the general Iranian population.
Methods: In this study, we evaluated the psychometric properties of PATHOS in a sample of 443 Iranians
in 2018. Data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (Factor 10.8.04 software). Simple and
multiple linear regression analyses were used to investigate construct validity and variables predictive
of addiction.
Results: Exploratory factor analysis identified two factors in this dichotomous questionnaire and reported
the questionnaire’s test-retest reliability in the target population. Prognostic variables for sexual addiction
in the Iranian population were determined to be female gender, higher education, viewing pornographic
videos, having multiple sex partners, having difficulty interacting in sex, and history of masturbation.
Conclusion: The Persian version of the brief sex addiction screening instrument (PATHOS) has sufficient
reliability and validity in the Iranian population. The predictive variables of sex addiction are indicative of
the presence of risk of this disorder in Iranian samples and more studies are needed in order to enable
prevention and treatment.