Exploring the Lived Experience of Problematic Users of Internet Pornography: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Internet Pornography (IP) is a phenomenon that has been the focus of much research and debate recently, yet there is still a lack of consensus regarding when the use of IP becomes problematic. There is also a lack of qualitative research on the effects of IP on those who self-identify as experiencing problematic use. This phenomenological, qualitative study surveyed 53 self-identified users of IP. Thematic analysis of the results found that users experienced a number of psychosocial impacts attributed to their use of IP, such as diminished positive mental health and wellbeing, detrimental effects on relationships and intimacy, and symptoms of dependency. Suggestions for further research are made.

Disclosure statement

The writers have no interests to declare.

Data findings

The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in Open Science Framework’s online depositary, available at https://osf.io/rgstn/?view_only=e59e6960e06b4713838db6e630f1b77f