The Need for This Ministry
If you find yourself wondering why a ministry such as Ultimate Escape has been developed, please continue reading.
Sexual addiction is the fastest growing addiction in our country (Ferree, 2001, Winter). More than half of the individuals participating in a recent large survey reported using online sexual activity as a distraction from their daily routine (Cooper, Delmonico, Griffin-Shelley, & Mathy, 2004). It is reported that as many as two-thirds of Christian men have struggled with pornography (Laaser, 2002). One out of every six women, including Christians, struggles with an addiction to pornography ( TCW, 2003).
Among people who develop sexual addictions, addictive sexual behaviors typically began at age 10 for males and at age 9 for females (Carnes, 1991). The largest consumers of internet pornography are those in the 12-17 age group ( Ropelato, 2005). 53% of adolescent males report having been masturbated and 49% report having received oral sex (Peterson, 2000).
Starting around age 10 adolescent social life involves online flirting and various cybersex activity (Turkle, 1995).
Addiction to pornography and masturbation is becoming common in America . Contrary to popular belief, getting married does not cure the problem (Johnson, 2001).
Unfortunately there is a huge need for this ministry! The issue of addictive sexual behaviors among the general adolescent population receives almost no attention. Ultimate Escape hopes to help change this!
