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Is Porn Addiction a Real Thing and How Can I Protect My Family From It?

Lauren Mauck • Oct 06, 2020

Let's discuss how to prevent a porn addiction and suggest ways to help someone struggling with one.

Eagle’s Wing Counseling Center - Porn addiction is real, and it's a serious problem. We can help you in Sarasota, FL
With the rapid rise of smartphones and social media, access to porn is easier than it's ever been. Many voices out there say that viewing porn isn't bad and can be healthy for relationships. This may make you wonder if porn addiction is even a real thing.

Porn addiction is real, and it's a serious problem. Mounting evidence shows the neuroscience behind porn addiction is similar to substance addiction. Likewise, porn addiction can also lead to divorce, loss of employment, and financial problems. 

This article will define porn addiction. We'll also discuss how to prevent porn addiction and suggest ways to help someone struggling with one. 
Eagle’s Wing Counseling Center - Porn addiction is real, and it's a serious problem. We can help you in Sarasota, FL

What is Porn Addiction? 

Like other addictions, porn addiction is defined by compulsive use. Often the user doesn't want to look at porn, but they can't stop themselves, even when they know their continued use is harming them. 


Over time, they continue to view porn even as it begins to interfere with everyday life. For example, they may need to get up early in the morning for an exam, but stay up late to feed their addiction. Their work performance declines as they view porn instead of meeting a project deadline at work. Likewise, porn addiction begins to replace home responsibilities or offering emotional support. Not only does their continued use harm the addict, but it often affects their coworkers, friends, and family.

Eagle’s Wing Counseling Center - Porn addiction is real, and it's a serious problem. We can help you in Sarasota, FL

How Can I Protect My Loved One from Porn Addiction?

The best way to protect a loved one is to have a conversation with them about pornography and its dangers. A study by the APA shows men who view porn are more likely to become depressed, disconnect from their loved ones, and engage in secret behaviors. Others find it's easier to look at porn than to interact with people or that it numbs feelings like anxiety or depression. So, users turn to porn instead of facing real problems, which begins a difficult cycle that is hard to break. 


It may also help to ask them when they last viewed pornography. Teens are often afraid to tell their parents about internet use. Likewise, they worry their parents will get angry and take away their phones or favorite apps. To help them, assure your teens that you love them and want to protect them. A great way to help your teen is to commit to remaining calm even if they have been viewing porn. If you outline this for them before they get a phone, they may feel safe enough to come to you. 


Limiting access to porn by putting safety filters on your family's phones and all electronic devices is very helpful. Likewise, you can help avoid porn addiction by doing electronic checks often. 


Eagle’s Wing Counseling Center- Porn addiction is real, and it's a serious problem. We can help you in Sarasota, FL

What Can I Do If My Loved One Has a Porn Addiction?

If your loved one has a porn addiction but refuses to acknowledge the harm being done, you may want to seek intervention. You can hire an interventionist who can help you plan a meeting. The interventionist can then lead a discussion where you can confront your loved one about their porn addiction. 


If your loved one agrees to get help, they will benefit from your love and support. They will also need help from a therapist who specializes in sex addiction. Likewise, you deserve support too. A family therapist can help everyone who is being affected by the addiction.


If they refuse to get help, and their behavior is harming you, you may seek out a therapist to help set boundaries. Good boundaries will protect you against your family member's harmful behavior. 


At Eagle's Wing Counseling Center, we can help your loved ones overcome their porn addiction. We can help you too. Call us today. 

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