Post-Traumatic Stress & Trauma Index–Revised (PTST-R):

Understanding Trauma in the Context of Sex Addiction and Compulsive Sexual Behavior

The Post-Traumatic Stress & Trauma Index–Revised (PTST-R) is a specialized clinical assessment tool designed to help individuals and clinicians identify trauma histories that may be contributing to sex addiction, compulsive sexual behaviors, and pornography dependence. Trauma—whether acute, chronic, developmental, or relational—often plays a significant role in shaping how a person copes, self-soothes, and relates to intimacy. The PTST-R provides a structured way to examine how past experiences may be influencing present-day patterns.

Purpose of the PTST-R in Sexual Addiction Treatment

For many individuals who struggle with compulsive sexual behavior or long-standing pornography use, trauma is not always obvious or consciously recognized. The PTST-R helps uncover:

• Early attachment wounds that shape adult intimacy and trust

• Adverse childhood experiences that create vulnerabilities to addiction

• Events involving shame, betrayal, or fear that impact sexual development

• Patterns of emotional dysregulation that drive compulsive behavior

• Triggers linked to past experiences that influence current relational and sexual functioning

By mapping out trauma histories, the PTST-R helps determine not only what happened, but how those experiences continue to influence thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships today.

How Eliminating Porn Uses the PTST-R

As part of the Eliminating Porn™ assessment process, clients complete the PTST-R to develop a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological factors that interact with their pornography use or compulsive behaviors. This assessment is not about labeling or pathologizing—it is about clarity.

Eliminating Porn uses the PTST-R to:

• Identify unresolved trauma that may fuel addictive cycles

• Highlight patterns of avoidance, self-blame, or emotional numbing

• Clarify the connection between past wounds and present struggles

• Create a personalized roadmap for treatment, healing, and long-term recovery

This approach ensures that clients do not simply “white-knuckle sobriety,” but instead build the emotional and relational capacity needed for true, sustainable change.

Interpretation by Maxim Arbuzov, LICSW – Porn Addiction Specialist

The results of the PTST-R are interpreted by Maxim Arbuzov, LICSW, a specialist in men’s mental health, sexual compulsivity, pornography addiction, and trauma-informed care. Maxim blends clinical training, experience, and a strengths-based male-centered approach to help clients understand:

• Why certain sexual behaviors feel compulsive or out of control

• How trauma and shame may be underlying urges, fantasies, or avoidance

• What emotional experiences need healing to restore healthy intimacy

• Which coping strategies can effectively replace addictive patterns

• Where past experiences continue to shape present identity and behavior

By reviewing the PTST-R with each client, Maxim provides a clear, compassionate explanation of how trauma may be operating in their life. This process helps men feel understood rather than blamed, and empowers them with practical steps for emotional regulation, relational repair, and long-term recovery from pornography and compulsive sexual behavior.