Originally Posted by
andrewv
Psychological Analysis:
1. Emotional Dependency & Attachment Substitution
There are clear markers of parasocial or pseudo-intimate attachment—a one-sided emotional investment toward sex workers and the brothel community that substitutes for real emotional connection.
The “comfort” he describes functions as an emotional refuge, likely filling unmet needs for acceptance, belonging, and validation.
2. Compulsive or Addictive Sexual Behaviour
The frequency, duration, and financial outlay suggest possible compulsive use of commercial sex:
Recurrent high spending despite negative consequences.
Preoccupation with maintaining involvement.
Escalation in time commitment (multi-day bookings).
Intense distress when access is disrupted.
These are hallmarks of behavioural addiction, not purely transactional use.
3. Defended Vulnerability and Cognitive Dissonance
His insistence that he’s “not in love” and “not crazy” reflects defensive rationalisation—protecting against the painful recognition of emotional dependency or rejection.
The language (“I just help out out of kindness”) masks a need for significance and reciprocal care that he cannot admit within the transactional framework of a brothel.
4. Rejection Sensitivity & Narcissistic Injury
When the owner abruptly cuts him off, he experiences it as a betrayal of loyalty and worth. The subsequent indignation (“After all I’ve done for them!”) indicates narcissistic wounding—a collapse of self-esteem tied to perceived unfair treatment.
5. Possible Underlying Factors
Patterns suggest:
Loneliness and low relational self-efficacy (difficulty forming mutual, non-transactional bonds).
Possible depressive or dysthymic traits, masked by activity and “helpfulness.”
Compensatory behaviour through control, spending, and “being needed.”
Summary
This punter exhibits traits of loneliness, dependency, and compulsive sexual behaviour masked as altruism. He appears emotionally invested in transactional environments that provide temporary acceptance. The abrupt rejection by the brothel has destabilised his sense of belonging, revealing underlying emotional vulnerability. Therapeutic intervention is advised to address attachment repair, emotional dependency, and self-worth regulation.