Problematic pornography use: narrative review and a preliminary model

Abstract

Introduction: There are no current comprehensive models related to problematic pornography use (PPU) that can directly assist psychological therapists who work with people with these issues. The absence of psychological models results in the therapist being unable to benefit from evidence-based practice and having to work completely idiosyncratically.

Methods: A non-systematic narrative review of peer reviewed published research literature related to PPU was undertaken.

Results: PPU is introduced with a focus on classification, epidemiology, how it is experienced, causes and associated factors, measurement and treatment. This paper culminates with a preliminary model that attempts to illustrate the main research findings from both this paper and a previous paper written by the authors. Recommendations are then made for both practice and research.

Conclusions: This review highlights not only what we know so far about PPU but also what we do not know. There are indications from the research literature as to the experience of PPU, but these are lacking; many voices have not been heard. There are indications of developmental factors but no real clarity, and maintenance factors are imprecise. Having an accepted model that helps explain both these factors is essential in developing further research with the ultimate goal of eventually helping people suffering with PPU.

Keywords:

• Problematic pornography use
• literature review
• model

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

James Binnie

James Binnie is a senior lecturer and psychotherapist at the Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University. His research focuses on mental health, psychotherapy and practice based evidence.

Paula Reavey

Paula Reavey is a Professor of psychology at the Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University. Paula uses a variety of qualitative and visual methodologies to study mental distress; social remembering and child sexual abuse.