Pornography and Sexual Violence

The Link Between Pornography and Sexual Violence:

Did you know the average internet user spends over 40% of their waking hours online? This extensive online presence means that the content we consume on the internet can significantly impact our thoughts and behaviours. Research has shown that what we engage with online can positively and negatively influence us. With approximately 91.5% of men and 60.2% of women consuming pornography, it's essential to examine how porn might affect its consumers.

Violence in Porn:

The content of pornography varies widely, but studies have revealed a concerning prevalence of violence and aggression in pornographic material. Researchers found that a substantial percentage of popular porn scenes (88.2%) contained physical violence or aggression, with nearly half (48.7%) featuring verbal aggression. Another study discovered that around 40% of videos on Pornhub included visible aggression or violence, with 25% containing verbal aggression. Furthermore, these studies consistently showed women as the primary targets of violence.

Even by the most conservative estimate, more than one in three porn videos depicts sexual violence or aggression. Some studies also examined consumers' perceptions, revealing that a significant portion of young people frequently witnessed dominant male roles, name-calling or slurs directed at women, and nonconsensual violence in the porn they consumed. This exposure can normalize violent and non-consensual sexual behaviour.

Portrayal of Violence Reactions:

One disturbing aspect of pornography is how it portrays the reactions of victims to violence or aggression. Research indicates that 95% of victims in porn either appear neutral or respond with pleasure to violence, reinforcing the dangerous message that sexual violence is part of sexual pleasure.

Impact on Consumers:

Repeated exposure to porn can desensitize consumers to sexual content, leading them to seek more extreme material for arousal. Studies have shown that porn consumers are more likely to sexually objectify and dehumanize others, express an intent to commit sexual assault, refrain from intervening during a sexual assault, victim-blame survivors, support violence against women, forward sexts without consent, and commit acts of sexual violence.

A meta-analysis of quality studies in 2016 concluded that individuals who consume pornography frequently are more likely to hold attitudes conducive to sexual aggression and engage in actual acts of sexual aggression. Additionally, teens often attempt to replicate porn in their sexual encounters, which can contribute to unhealthy relationships.

Conclusion:

It's crucial to recognize that not all porn features physical violence, but even non-violent porn has been associated with adverse effects, including increased sexual aggression. Pornography often perpetuates toxic narratives such as racism, sexism, incest, and the fetishization of marginalized groups. While consuming porn doesn't automatically turn individuals into rapists, it plays a role in normalizing sexual violence, which has real-world consequences.

To build healthier relationships where consent and boundaries are respected, it's essential to acknowledge the role that porn plays in normalizing sexual violence. Saying no to porn and its problematic narratives can contribute to creating a healthier world.

Support:

If you or someone you know is struggling with pornography, Mark is here for you. Mark's Freedom from Fapping program will give you the tools and understanding to avoid acting out.