Pornography Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatment

What Is Porn Addiction?

Pornography addiction is not diagnosable, but growing research supports that some people experience problematic behavior akin to drug and alcohol abuse. A hallmark sign of porn addiction includes compulsive and continued use despite negative consequences. People struggling with addiction to pornography likely experience cravings for and a lack of control over their porn use.

Is Porn Addiction Real?

Some may argue that porn addiction isn’t real, but many researchers suggest the contrary. The World Health Organization formally recognized compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD), a condition marked by recurrent, uncontrollable sexual fantasies or behaviors, often including porn use.¹ This inclusion suggests that experts may soon consider porn addiction a clinical diagnosis.

Why Is Porn Addictive?

Experts suggest that watching pornography triggers the same chemicals associated with drugs and alcohol.² Those who watch porn may experience spiked dopamine levels, leading to feelings of pleasure. Over time, the body grows accustomed to these “dopamine hits,” sometimes leaving individuals craving more and continuing compulsive porn use.

Is Porn More Addictive for Men or Women?

Research suggests that males are more prone to develop pornography addiction than females.³ Interestingly, some studies suggest that men with porn addiction are more likely to experience relationship problems, while porn may help improve relationships and sexual satisfaction for women.⁴ However, findings are inconsistent, with some surveys citing negative impacts on both men and women.^5,6

Signs of Porn Addiction

Porn addiction signs vary depending on the person but often include a preoccupation with sexual thoughts, loss of control over urges, and inability to perform sexually. Some may hide these behaviors from loved ones due to the shame associated with pornography.

Common porn addiction signs include:⁷

• Using porn excessively or too often
• Substituting porn for real-life sex
• Seeking out more extreme types of porn
• Using porn in times or places where it is unacceptable
• Relying on porn to cope with difficult feelings or stress
• Conflict or disconnection with a significant other because of porn use
• Neglecting self-care due to porn use
• Decreased interest in activities previously enjoyed
• Complications at work or school due to compulsive porn use

Porn Addiction Symptoms

Someone addicted to porn may show obvious or more subtle symptoms. More apparent behaviors include watching porn in inappropriate settings, such as at work, in public, or around children. Conversely, many individuals may hide their pornography use due to the shame and stigma associated with their behavior.

Below are the symptoms of porn addiction:

• Using porn more frequently or for longer than intended
• Making unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop watching porn
• Frequently being preoccupied with sexual thoughts or urges related to porn
• Experiencing feelings of shame, disgust, or distress about the type, amount, or frequency of porn watched
• Feeling a loss of control over sexual urges or use of porn
• An inability to become aroused or to sexually perform with partners in real life
• The development of new sexual fetishes that are upsetting or disturbing to the individual
• Watching porn in inappropriate settings (like at work, in public, or around children)
• The gradual need for more extreme or interactive forms of porn (e.g. fetish or webcam)
• Feelings of shame about secret sexual urges and behavior
• Continuing to use porn even after it is no longer enjoyable
• Going to great lengths to hide or conceal the use of porn
• The use, collection, or distribution of porn with illegal content (i.e. featuring children, bestiality, rape, etc.)
• Not cutting back or stopping porn use after experiencing problems or consequences at work, at home, or in relationships

Porn Addiction Causes & Risk Factors

Experts do not know the exact cause of porn addiction. However, many believe people may be more susceptible to addictive or compulsive behaviors because of genetic, biological, or environmental factors.

Possible causes of porn addiction include:

• Genetics: Some research indicates dysfunction of certain genes, DRD2 and 5-HTTLPR, may contribute to problematic internet use. While genetics alone cannot cause porn addiction, experts continue researching how they impact the risk of porn addiction.^8,9
• Early childhood trauma: Early childhood trauma can contribute to feelings of powerlessness and shame, sometimes impacting the ability to develop healthy relationships. In turn, individuals may seek validation through compulsive behaviors like porn use.
• Impulsivity: Impulsivity can encourage individuals with porn addiction to seek ways to use frequently and without satiation. 
• Isolation: Frequent isolation can cause boredom or loneliness, occasionally prompting someone to reduce these emotions through compulsive porn use.
• Ease of access: In the modern age, internet porn has become popular because of its easy accessibility. Multiple platforms offer access to pornography, meaning individuals have different avenues to obtain and consume pornographic material.
• Personality factors: Some research indicates higher levels of extroversion and agreeableness are associated with porn-addictive patterns.¹⁰
• Comorbid mental health disorders: Some studies show that anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and sexual dysfunction may exacerbate hypersexual behavior.¹
• Brain abnormalities: Individuals with porn addiction may experience certain dysfunctions in the pleasure and reward systems of the brain, specifically around desensitization to sexual cues.¹
• Co-occurring substance use disorders: Around one-third of individuals in treatment for substance use disorders also show compulsive sexual behaviors.¹¹

Complications of Porn Addiction

Watching pornography in and of itself is not a behavioral issue or concern. However, porn use becomes problematic when the negative effects of porn impact different aspects of life, such as interpersonal relationships, sexual functioning, psychological health, sexual schemas, or self-esteem.

Relationship Conflicts

Research suggests pornography addiction negatively impacts couples in committed relationships, and some partners may even consider watching porn as cheating. Partners may feel disconnected from the porn-addicted person when the frequency and quality of sex or intimacy decreases. In fact, chances of divorce nearly double when someone reports a problematic use of porn.

Sexual Disorders

Individuals struggling with porn addiction may fear inadequacy in the bedroom, occasionally contributing to sexual performance anxiety, orgasm anxiety, or porn-induced erectile dysfunction.

Worsening Mental Health Conditions

Some people with problematic pornography behaviors experience depression, possibly due to cultural or societal views of porn. For example, an individual struggling with pornography and depression may feel conflicted about their values because of pornography use.

Unhealthy Sexual Fantasies & Behavior

Problematic pornography consumption can generate unhealthy ideas about sexual encounters.¹² Some may believe that sexual coercion is an acceptable form of interaction with a partner rather than a form of sexual assault. Unfortunately, this behavior can be detrimental for both the inflictor and the victim.

Low Self-Esteem

Men struggling with low self-esteem may utilize porn to fulfill their perception of traditional masculine norms.¹³ They may feel that watching porn will increase their confidence or acceptance among peers, specifically when they belong to communities that accept porn. Other times, individuals struggling with internal conflicts about porn use may feel shame or self-disgust because of their behavior.

Porn Addiction Treatment Options

Treatment for pornography addiction often focuses on the underlying causes driving the problematic and compulsive behaviors. Therapy for porn addiction can be especially beneficial, sometimes alongside medications for co-occurring mental health conditions.

Treatment should be individualized and fit the needs of the person struggling with porn addiction. Online therapist directories offer resources for finding the right therapist specializing in addiction. Some people may benefit from inpatient or rehab treatment, while others may consider online therapy options for a more flexible approach.

Treatment for pornography addiction may include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for addiction focuses on changing the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT may help individuals with porn addiction change maladaptive thoughts and replace them with healthier alternatives, ultimately changing the compulsive behavior.
• Couples therapy: Couples therapy may be necessary for individuals with relationships affected by porn addiction. Couples counselors can help them develop new strategies for relating to one another and coping with addictive behavior.
• Group therapy: Group therapy can offer validation, support, and mentorship for those addicted to porn. This option provides a safe place to practice interpersonal skills and emotion regulation.
• Medications: Medications for porn addiction may help reduce the frequency or intensity of maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. SSRIs*, such as paroxetine, or addiction medications, such as naltrexone, may be used for treatment.
• Rehab or inpatient care: Rehab or inpatient care may be necessary for some individuals if they seek a controlled environment free of temptations and triggers.
• Intensive outpatient programs (IOP): An IOP program may be necessary for individuals needing extra support. Outpatient programs for porn addiction may include weekly meetings with a therapist, group therapy, psycho-education classes, and couples or family therapy.

*This medication has a black box warning, the most serious kind of warning from the FDA for a risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people. You should talk with your doctor about these risks before starting this medication. 

How to Cope With Porn Addiction

Healthy lifestyle changes combined with treatment for pornography addiction can help you as you address problematic behaviors. Overcoming any addiction is challenging, so be patient with yourself if you slip up along the way. Help and support are available to assist you as you make positive strides.

Below are tips for coping with a pornography addiction:

Remember Your “Why”

You probably have at least one good reason to stop watching porn–stay in touch with these goals. Some days will be difficult, and you should summon your “why” to help you stay motivated and push through.

Involve Your Support System

Many people struggling with a pornography addiction feel intense shame. While opening up to your loved ones can be difficult, having support is crucial in recovery. Select a few trusted people and ask them to keep you accountable when times are tough. Knowing someone has your back and best interest in mind can make a huge difference.

Make It Harder to Access Porn

Add parental filters on your devices, throw away any pornography, and avoid situations that may trigger urges. Making porn inaccessible can safeguard you when your willpower is low and help you return to your “why” for recovery.

Find Healthy Forms of Intimacy

People struggling with problematic sexual behaviors may not experience intimacy or closeness during sex. Reconnect with a partner in ways that invite intimacy back into the relationship by cuddling, using foreplay, or being playful.

Be Still & Wait for the Urge to Pass

Inevitably, you will have urges to watch porn you want to act on. Stop, be still, and let the cravings come and go. Imagine these urgers are like a wave, building up before dissipating. Over time, the waves get smaller and come less often.

Final Thoughts

Struggling with porn addiction can be challenging, but help is available for those ready to recover. Practicing healthy coping skills and seeking professional support can assist you in addressing problematic porn use.