This is a very tricky question to answer. With the advent of the internet, it’s become common to access hardcore porn. Therefore, even if you consume a lot of it, you may still view this as normal and acceptable. Simultaneously, the vast majority of people hide their porn use. Gauging numbers is a major challenge.
Then we have the biggest reason why porn addiction is difficult to quantify. The science and medical establishments are split as to whether or not behavioral addictions are “real” addictions. Even so, the lowest range of estimates is 200,000 Americans believed to be “porn addicts.”
Pornography By the Numbers
- Boys have a 90 percent chance of viewing pornography by the age of 18
- For girls, that number is 60 percent
- The average age children view porn for the first time is 13
- One out of four young adults see porn as their main source of “sex education”
- As adults, 40 million Americans (80 percent of men and 30 percent of women) watch porn regularly
- Up to 76 percent of porn consumption takes place on mobile phones
- 35 percent of all internet downloads are porn-related
Beyond the Numbers
While those white lab coats argue about labels, the numbers above all point to a growing tsunami of issues. On top of that, there is increasingly violent content being consumed by people of all ages.
- Roughly 88 percent of porn videos depict physical violence
- 98 percent of that violence is aimed at women
Not surprisingly, four out of 10 children who have viewed pornography believe it will lead to girls and women being treated with disrespect. Thirty-nine percent of women report being victimized by unwanted violence during consensual sex.
Clearly, the problem goes beyond the usage of the word “addiction.” Even so, there are some signs to watch for within that realm.
Possible Signs That You Have a Pornography Problem
You Can’t Stop
You’re aware that you’re overdoing it and you’ve tried to reduce exposure. But it hasn’t worked. In fact, you might even think about pornography even when you’re not watching it.
It’s Impacting Other Parts of Your Life
Have you noticed that you’re not exactly tackling your daily to-do list lately? Where is that time going? Porn consumption can eat away the hours with you barely noticing the time passing. If you’ve opted to pay for access to specific websites, you also risk porn negatively impacting your finances.
You’re Hiding It
You may be hiding it from a spouse or partner, parent or child, co-worker or friend. What matters is that your porn habit is causing you fear and shame.
Your Sex Life Has Changed
Porn set unrealistic and unhealthy standards. When a real-life human fails to or refuses to live up to these standards, you lose interest. Over time, you may lose interest in any kind of real sex. No one can live up to the images you compulsively view.
The biggest red flag may occur even when you’re aware of the above signs. Despite all the downsides, you keep going. You recognize that you’re out of control but that does not stop you. In such a state, it matters little whether or not you use the term “addict.” You need and deserve help.
It’s Best to Talk With an Expert
So many elements related to pornography are shrouded in secrecy, controversy, and shame. This can dissuade anyone from facing up to a potential problem. Under these circumstances, the best first move is to talk to a therapist.
I’ve worked with countless individuals who have struggled with porn. Hence, I invite you to reach out to start a dialogue. Let’s set up a free consultation and get you on the road to recovery.
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