Some potential psychological effects of porn include: Body image and the beauty myth Psychological risks and side effects of porn Stress relief and leisureĪ 2017 study identified that many people use pornography as a leisure activity to relieve stress and distract them from adverse emotions. A 2012 paper argues that pornography demedicalizes female sexuality. For example, females may find that certain genres of porn validate a wide range of sexual expressions. Some people find porn sexually empowering. Watching pornography may make sex feel less intimidating, especially to people who have little exposure to sex and sexual material. The media tends to portray sex and sexuality as heterosexual and presents a narrow range of options, while porn offers a person the opportunity to seek out more inclusive options. People who consume porn may learn about new sexual positions, view destigmatizing material about their kinks, and learn more about the human body.
Some potential psychological benefits include: Increased access to diverse sexual material Many porn users claim that their use improves their relationships, and in some cases, their well-being.
