With the digital world at our fingertips, access to pornography has never been this easily available. Whilst personal viewing of pornography can have a positive impact on ones’ sexual pleasure and exploration, strong drawbacks on the unrealistic nature and excessive consumption of pornography exist. Viewing pornography not only affects individual viewers but can also have complex effects on their personal relationships, and even society at large.

Effects of pornography on relationships

Pornography can have either a positive or negative effect on intimate relationships.

Intimate partners may view pornography alone or together as a form of sexual exploration and education, benefitting by learning new ideas and understanding sexual preferences. If mutually consenting, discussing pornography likes and dislikes together as a couple can encourage open communication and better understanding between partners.

On the other hand, the unrealistic performances can cause viewers to have harmful sexual expectations and dysfunctional behaviour in their relationships. It is important that viewers understand the performative aspect of pornography. Pornographic movies often involve actors that exaggerate scenarios and fake (act out) a sexual experience. This cannot replace real intimacy, emotion, respect and communication between partners. Viewing pornography frequently can also lead to issues with body image and may give way to excessive consumption and addictive behaviour. Some individuals may also begin to prefer fantasy over reality, and struggle to form emotional connection and experience sexual pleasure with just their partners. Additionally, if there is no open communication about pornography between partners, this can lead to secrecy, trust issues and feelings of betrayal.

Effects of pornography on sexual health

As mentioned above, pornography can be used for educational purposes, understanding anatomy and diverse sexual acts/preferences. However, concerns exist over the impact of pornography on sexual health, especially that of young people and adolescents, who may not have had comprehensive sex education. Without guidance, pornography can contribute to anxiety, misinformation, body image issues, and unhealthy expectations about sex.

Consent in pornography is a controversial subject. Whilst some pornographic material does depict respectful and consensual sex, most pornographic material does not include sexual acts that are mutually consented but instead champions violent behaviour and harmful stereotypes. Addiction to pornography can also lead to sexual dysfunction, causing conditions such as erectile dysfunction and low sexual desire in real-life intimate relationships.

Finding a balance

As with most things in life, pornography (if viewed) should be consumed in moderation. Whilst it may not be overly harmful, excessive consumption and a lack of awareness about pornography can have serious consequences on a person’s life and their relationships.

Ultimately, developing healthy attitudes toward sexuality and intimacy requires balancing reality with acting. By prioritizing communication, respect, and self-awareness, individuals can ensure their relationships and sexual health remain fulfilling and unaffected by unrealistic expectations.

If you or someone you know is concerned about the impact of pornography in their life and would like to speak to a healthcare professional about it, contact the Centre for Family Health or the Alokaya Counselling Centre at the Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka (+94112555455, No. 37/27, Bullers Lane, Colombo-07).