Sex Addiction and Pornography

Pornography is not just about an addiction to sex. Pornography typically shows explicit images of individuals involved in abuse, degradation or aggression.

Addiction to pornography has similar effect on the individual’s life as other behavioural addictions

It can lead to loss of control of general lifestyle and a retreat from emotional intimacy. The emotional intimacy associated with sex is also often lost. Often, partners of individuals addicted to pornography feel devastation, hurt, betrayal and experience a loss of self-esteem.

Cybersex addiction has been found to be a major contributing factor to separation and divorce in couples. However, with the correct counselling, cybersex and pornography addiction can be treated. Often a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy and peer support is used.