There have been several discussions and debates lately regarding the usage of pornography and porn addiction. While some countries have sought to ban it altogether, others have limited or restricted its access. A few others do not restrict porn as long as it is legally produced. We will not discuss the legalities in this article, as that is out of our purview.
However, an increasing number of people have succumbed to several myths and disinformation about pornography usage. An entire group of social influencers makes quite a lot of money preaching about the ill effects of pornography and masturbation.
Masturbation is a healthy and safe expression of one’s sexuality and causes no health-related impact. Regular ejaculation is correlated with a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer.
With masturbation off the table, let us discuss the problematic usage of pornography, which many call “porn addiction.”
Is pornography addiction an actual diagnosis?
There are no universally accepted diagnostic criteria for porn addiction. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the only diagnostic criterion resembling porn addiction is “behavioral addiction.” But that includes only pathological gambling. At the moment, psychiatrists believe there isn’t enough evidence to have porn addiction as a diagnosis.
Similarly, the International Classification of Disorders (ICD-11) rejected “pornography addiction” and instead included a diagnosis called “compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD). However, experts insist that this is not an endorsement of pornography addiction.
So, to cut a long story short, there is no psychological or psychiatric disorder at the moment which can be accurately called “porn addiction.” However, problematic use of porn does exist, and it may interfere with school, occupation, and interpersonal relationships.
What Causes Porn Addiction
If you enjoy watching porn and find yourself unable to complete tasks, interact with loved ones, or notice a change in sexual performance, you may tell yourself that you are addicted to porn. Pornography stimulates pleasure centers in the brain and causes a dopamine rush. Masturbating to pornography acts as a positive reinforcement, further stimulating reward centers in your brain.
Some studies note atypical brain activity while watching porn, but it is important to note that this does not suggest anything. It is worth noting that access to computers, smartphones, and other devices has made porn instantly accessible; thus, most people spend a lot of time watching it. This behavior is similar to other forms of unhealthy internet usage but carries a stigma due to the nature of the topic.
Sexual behavior, as long as it is consensual, is part of the normal human behavioral repertoire. Most importantly, as long as the porn you watch does not involve harassment, violence, or illegal activities, it should not be viewed with much apprehension. It only becomes a problem when you cannot do other important things.
Side Effects Of Porn Addiction On Teenagers
If you are an underage person or the parent of a teenager, chances are you are worried about porn addiction. It is important to remember that all legal pornography is produced for adult viewing and carries a disclaimer that only those aged 18 and above can watch it. That’s for a good reason.
Teenagers often have a lot of school work and physical activity to engage in, and porn may serve as an undesirable distraction. In addition, certain types of porn may influence teenagers to view people as sexual objects and normalize violence and degrading sexual acts.
If you or your child is below 18, porn should be off-limits. Setting up parental controls on all devices teenagers use is a good idea. If this does not work, speaking to a counselor or a therapist can help identify other stimulating but safe activities.
Social Effects of Addiction to Pornography
Few adults who watch porn compulsively may experience shame and guilt, leading to low self-esteem. They may also feel anxious and stressed when they cannot stop the behavior. As a result, they may become withdrawn and unproductive at school or work. If porn addiction becomes serious enough for the individual, it may interfere with friendships, romantic relationships, and colleague interactions.
Most importantly, getting caught watching porn at work or in a public place can lead to termination or legal consequences. If you are an adult and can legally access legally produced porn, watching it in your home’s privacy should be safe.
Psychological Effects of Addiction to Pornography
Overusing pornography can have several psychological effects. To begin with, there is a stigma attached to watching porn. Hence, most people who overuse porn may experience guilt, shame, and low self-esteem. Second, masturbating to porn may also lead to feelings of guilt and shame, although unwarranted.
A person may find it difficult to focus on tasks such as work, homework, and even healthy relationships. Many people find that they cannot enjoy sexual acts with their partners and often find it easier to achieve orgasms while watching porn and masturbating.
On the contrary, many sex therapists use pornography to help improve their sex lives. In addition, as previously stated, masturbation is harmless and may have health benefits. If you cannot overcome guilt, shame, and low self-esteem, it is time to see a therapist.
How to Treat Porn Addiction?
Treating porn addiction is a misnomer as it is not psychological or psychiatric. However, anything that interferes with your regular lifestyle can become problematic and require professional assistance. If watching too much porn is bothering you, consider therapy.
Porn Addiction Treatment Options
Treating “porn addiction,” if that’s what you’d like to call it, requires a consultation with a clinical psychologist or another registered mental health professional. They will take your clinical history and try to work out a customized treatment plan for your unique situation.
You may be asked about the duration of your dependence on porn and what problems it causes. The therapist might most likely be interested in the emotions and behavioral issues that watching porn causes in your life. Based on the initial consultation, the therapist will psychoeducate you that masturbation is safe and watching legally acquired porn is safe too.
In addition, they will help you control excessive porn consumption using behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and others. All these therapies can be accessed online or in person.
Consider Talking to an Online Therapist
Consider talking to an online therapist if you cannot attend face-to-face meetings. Online therapy has similar prognosis-related outcomes and can be compared with in-person treatment sessions. Online therapy is safe, confidential, and affordable.
In-person therapy
If your problem is serious and online therapy is insufficient, you may have to visit a therapist’s office. However, many people in the US and elsewhere find it difficult to find registered clinical psychologists and mental health professionals. Consider trying Grow Therapy, which lists several therapists who may work in your chosen neighborhood. You can choose between online and in-person therapies depending on your personal preference.
Can Porn Addiction Affect Intimacy Between Partners?
Yes. Over-dependence on pornography can affect intimacy between partners. You may feel the real thing is less stimulating than watching pornography. Have an honest conversation with your partner and seek help when possible.
Can Porn Addiction Cause Mental Health Disorders?
Porn addiction is not a mental disorder; unfortunately, most people who over-watch porn come to this conclusion. However, as noted earlier, watching too much porn can cause feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem, all of which can lead to depressive symptoms. In addition, overuse of screens before bedtime can cause sleep issues, leading to stress and anxiety.
Most importantly, you may not feel sexual pleasure with your partners like when you masturbate to porn. Hence, addressing these consequences with the help of a trained professional can help you overcome the undesirable effects of watching too much porn.
Porn Isn’t Inherently Bad. However, Don’t Let It Rule Your Life.
Certainly, most adults watch porn and can ignore it when they have to. However, watching porn should be strictly out of bounds for teenagers, and parents should ensure adequate control of their devices.
Adults who find watching porn problematic can quickly descend into shame and guilt, leading to depressive symptoms. Such people will benefit from seeking help from trained mental health professionals who can help address underlying beliefs and thought patterns.
It is important to destigmatize watching legally accessible porn and seek treatment when things go out of hand. Thankfully, help is available, and most people get back to normalcy after a few sessions in therapy.
