Some sex addicts have been victims of physical, emotional or sexual abuse and have unresolved issues about the abuse(s). Some have unresolved conflicts about their sexual identity or goals in life. Any kind of unresolved external or internal conflict can agitate the addict. It is this agitation that becomes part of this particular pain agent’s unresolved conflict. The sense that “I don’t have that skill mastered yet,” or “I don’t feel good about myself because of that” can trigger the addict into the addiction cycle. These unresolved conflicts agitate the addict which is the beginning process for the cycle of addiction. An example of a trigger point for this unresolved conflict might be growing up in a physically abusive home and having unresolved issues around the abuse. When the addict has unresolved conflict, they act out as a way to avoid, minimize or medicate this conflict. This can show up in their personal or professional life. For example, the addict may have an argument or misunderstanding with someone at the office and act out as a way to make themselves feel better due to their unresolved conflict.