Understanding the Sexual Dependency Inventory (SDI) and SDI–No Minors

The Sexual Dependency Method (SDM) is an assessment-based therapeutic approach designed to help individuals understand the full landscape of their sexual behaviors, patterns, triggers, and underlying emotional drivers. It is rooted in addiction theory, trauma-informed care, and psychosexual health. The core premise of SDM is that problematic or compulsive sexual behavior does not occur in isolation—it develops from a complex interaction of early experiences, conditioning, stress responses, attachment patterns, and dysfunctional coping strategies. The SDM provides clinicians with a structured way to identify these factors, link them to present behaviors, and develop targeted treatment plans for long-term recovery.

At the heart of the Sexual Dependency Method are standardized assessment tools, most notably the Sexual Dependency Inventory (SDI). Developed by Dr. Patrick Carnes and colleagues, the SDI helps clients map out their sexual history, current behaviors, relational patterns, and core beliefs. By organizing this information into clinically meaningful categories, the SDI guides therapists in identifying themes such as secrecy, shame, compulsivity, trauma reenactment, arousal templates, and patterns of escalation. This allows both the client and clinician to see the broader picture behind the behavior and to create an effective, individualized treatment plan.

Difference Between the SDI and the SDI (No Minors)

While both assessments follow the same structure and therapeutic purpose, the key distinction lies in how each tool addresses sexual behaviors involving individuals under the age of 18.

SDI (Standard Version)

The standard Sexual Dependency Inventory (SDI) includes all categories of sexual behaviors, including those involving minors. This version is used only when clinically necessary and appropriate—typically in forensic contexts, mandated treatment, or when clients disclose or suspect involvement in behaviors that fall into legally or ethically sensitive categories. Because of the inclusion of questions involving minors, this version is tightly restricted and administered under strict professional protocols.

SDI (No Minors)

The SDI–No Minors version excludes all items related to sexual behaviors involving minors. It is the standard version used with the vast majority of clients in outpatient therapy, treating problematic pornography use, compulsive sexual behavior, or intimacy-related concerns. Clinicians use SDI–No Minors when:

• The client’s history does not include behaviors involving minors.

• The therapeutic focus is on adult sexual behavior, addiction patterns, relational functioning, trauma history, or attachment dynamics.

• The clinician is conducting assessment for personal growth, recovery planning, or general psychotherapy rather than forensic evaluation.

This version ensures that clients are not exposed to unnecessary or irrelevant questions, and it keeps the clinical focus on issues that align with the client’s goals and therapeutic needs.

Why the Distinction Matters

The separation between SDI and SDI–No Minors is intentional and clinically important. It protects clients, ensures ethical assessment practices, maintains legal boundaries, and allows therapists to focus on what is most relevant to treatment. Both tools support the broader Sexual Dependency Method by giving therapists clear, structured insight into the client’s sexual behavior patterns—without pathologizing sexuality and while prioritizing safety, accuracy, and client-centered care.