Have You Noticed?
Talking with my clients, we often walk through assessments to see how their addictive behaviors compare to those of the rest of society. Generally, many of them score in a sexually compulsive range while others get dumped in a category labeled “General Population.” Discussing this with clients who are religious provides some context. While they may fit with the general population, the level of distress they experience might be much higher due to the moral convictions that guide their lives. Society as a whole has labeled porn as a safe and acceptable behavior. Ironically enough there has been an uptick, appropriately so, in exposing sexual abuse and in tackling human trafficking. Unfortunately, while these promising movements have been occurring so has the steady increase in divorce rates and marital dissatisfaction. A phrase I often use in therapy is useful here; notice that. Notice the movements here. Sex is on the mind of many folks and the various ways sex is carried out has a lasting impact.
Recently there were two stories featured on national news. Maybe you saw them. First, singer Billie Eilish revealed that she began watching porn around age 11 and it “destroyed her brain.” Her outspoken word was truly an act of bravery as she confronts a society that both endorses and shames folks with porn. Talk about a mixed message! The effects, as discussed by psychologist Dr. Jeff Gardere paint a vivid picture of the effects of pornography on the brain of a developing person. Symptoms could include something like PTSD, nightmares, and a negative self-image. The other story featured was about a revenge porn case involving a Texas defensive football player. Clearly, pornography is exposing an intimate act that is not intended to be shared in that fashion and it’s having a serious impact on folks!
The important takeaway for today is to remain vigilant. Notice the effects pornography can have on you, your children, and the relationships you are involved in. If someone you know is being impacted by porn or the porn industry, seek help. Be a part of the change this world so desperately needs!