The consumption of pornography is universally accessible, some ethical pornography is very helpful as it can add variety and diversity to the couples ongoing sexual relationship. Limitless access alters both the way people use pornography and the ways in which it can harm both individuals and romantic relationships. With the popularity continuing to grow, one domain of particular concern has been the impact of pornography use on sexual functioning.
What is Sexual Functioning?
The ability of a man to get and keep an erection was traditionally the main focus of sexual functioning. To define sexual functioning, current research has used a more complex strategy. This method has recognised that sexual functions have many facets and are relevant to people of all ages and genders.
Sexual functioning has been defined in recent literature as the subjective assessment of a person’s sexual life’s elements and their cognitive, psychological, and/or physiological reactions. In essence, it includes a variety of sexual reactions and effects.
The Impact of Pornography on Sexual Functioning
Recent studies have provided evidence demonstrating how pornography use can negatively affect a person’s sexual health, including sexual dysfunction, anxiety regarding one’s sexual performance, and use of pornography. Stating that frequent use of pornography combined with masturbation is associated with higher rates of erectile dysfunction.
On the other hand, the most commonly reported issue for women is arousal dysfunction, also known as anorgasmia.
As well, research reveals adults who do not use pornography report the highest levels of sexual satisfaction, particularly in relation to their satisfaction with their partner and the frequency of their sexual activity.
How Pornography Affects Romantic Relationships
Pornography can have a profound and damaging effect on romantic relationships. It often leads to a decrease in communication and trust, as well as addiction. Here are ways porn harms healthy relationships:
- Porn harms consumers’ understanding of healthy sex. The sex portrayed in mainstream porn today is not an accurate representation of healthy sex. Mainstream porn teaches consumers not to value consent in their relationships as well as presents unrealistic performance standards.
- Unrealistic body expectations. Constant porn consumption can produce unrealistic expectations for both men’s and women’s bodies. Mainstream porn promotes an idealised image of people’s bodies, implementing a certain expectation of how their sexual partners should/shouldn’t look.
- Doesn’t encourage communication. Mainstream porn is acting. Therefore, it doesn’t teach women or men how to communicate their needs and desires in an effective or healthy manner. People will believe that their partners are not being entirely honest with them or that they are not being appreciated.
- Emotional disconnection. Along with other addictions, pornography floods the brain with dopamine and might offer a momentary solace from emotions like grief, fear, rage, or boredom that you’d prefer not to experience. Though it might offer a little respite from troubles in the real world, over time it might actually make those issues worse.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while ethical porn can be a good way to ‘spice up’ your sex life or as a sex aid, it can also have a considerable negative effects on a person’s sexual health and romantic relationships. Additionally, a more fulfilling sexual life is more likely to be had by those who watch less porn than others. Numerous aspects, including emotional disconnection, unreal expectations, a lack of communication, and the failure to establish boundaries, should be taken into account when determining how excessive porn usage affects one’s romantic or sexual relationship.
Lena Fenton Counselling
Do you think that your partner is addicted to porn? Or do you experience sexual dysfunctions like anorgasmia or erectile dysfunction? Lena Fenton Counselling offers psychosexual counselling that can support you and help you solve any if theissues mentioned in this article.
For more information, fill out the form or call us on 07721 633 521.
