The Impact of Pornography on Society, Relationships, and Healing (Episode #48)

In this powerful and deeply important episode of the Human Intimacy Podcast, Dr. Kevin Skinner and MaryAnn Michaelis discuss the far-reaching influence of pornography on individuals, relationships, and society. The episode reveals shocking statistics about the average age of first exposure—11 years old—and explores the lasting psychological, emotional, and relational consequences for both children and adults. The conversation dives into critical issues, including the normalization of violence in mainstream pornography, the grooming of children, and the internalized shame that fuels secrecy and addiction.  

The hosts also address societal challenges such as the inadequacy of filtering systems, the need for stronger legislative action like age-verification laws, and the responsibility of parents and communities to educate and protect children. Through compelling stories and clinical insights, they illustrate the profound impact of pornography on mental health, self-perception, and relationships.  

The episode concludes with an inspiring message of hope and recovery. Dr. Skinner and MaryAnn emphasize the transformative power of healing, self-awareness, and relational connection. They encourage listeners to take personal and collective action to safeguard future generations and support those seeking recovery and true intimacy.  

Resources Discussed:  

1. Statistics on Pornography Exposure:    - Average age of exposure: 11 years old.      - 22% of minors exposed to pornography are under the age of 10.      - 58% of minors accessing pornography are under the age of 14.      - 63% of minors reported accidental exposure in the past week.  

2. Books and Research:      - Treating Sexual Addiction: A Compassionate Approach to Recovery by Dr. Kevin Skinner.      - The Children of Pornhub by Nicholas Kristof, New York Times.  

3. Legislative and Advocacy Efforts:    - Age-verification laws in 19 states designed to protect minors from accessing pornography.      - Supreme Court case on January 15th to evaluate the constitutionality of Texas’ age-verification law.  

4. Recommended Organizations and Tools:      - Covenant Eyes: Monitoring and filtering software to help manage online activity.      - Exodus Cry: A non-profit organization focusing on ending sexual exploitation.      - National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE): Advocacy and educational resources for combating pornography and exploitation.      - White Ribbon Week Curriculum: A program teaching children digital literacy and discernment.  

5. Strategies for Action:      - Contact local representatives to support age-verification laws and digital safety measures.      - Use filtering software to mitigate exposure but recognize its limitations.      - Educate children early about the realities and harms of pornography.      - Advocate for improved online safety measures in schools and communities.  

6. Healing and Recovery:      - Join group therapy or accountability programs for individuals struggling with pornography addiction.      - Seek professional help and focus on aligning actions with personal values for long-term recovery.      - Emphasize the importance of relational skills and authentic connection over artificial substitutes.  

Next Steps for Listeners:  - Share this episode to spread awareness.   - Contact local representatives to support age-verification laws and advocate for digital safety.   - Learn more about the Human Intimacy Conference (March 14-15, 2025) at (http://humanintimacy.com).   - Explore additional healing and advocacy resources through NCOSE and Exodus Cry.  

This episode challenges listeners to take action, protect children, and reclaim the ability to foster healthy, intimate relationships in a culture deeply affected by the harmful impacts of pornography.  

 

Other resources provided:  A link to EC's campaign, Protect Children Not Porn that includes:

• A short animated video on the importance of AV
• Our documentary called Raised on Porn
• Our petition that almost has 100,000 signatures 
• Statistics on the harms of pornography on children

A link to EC's state-by-state Age Verification Tracker A link to EC's stat page that includes stats on harms of pornography on children, the amount of pornography easily accessible to children, and the average ages of children that are viewing pornography. And our two-pager on why Age Verification is essential in protecting children.