Problematic pornography use decreases when life becomes more meaningful

How can problematic pornography use best be combated? A recent study from the University of Groningen suggests that adding more meaning to life may be an important key.

As many as 65% of men and 16% of women report that they weekly view pornography. Approximately 3-8% of this group express dissatisfaction with their habit, perceiving it as addictive, leading them to seek remedies online. Researcher Luka Todorovic, along with colleagues Mark Huisman and Brian Ostafin, recently published a study in which they investigated strategies to diminish urges for watching pornography.

Exposure

The researchers recruited participants from online platforms associated with pornography and its 'addiction.’ Using a protocol in which participants were briefly exposed to pornography, they then tested whether compared to distraction, life meaning, willpower, mindfulness, and the feeling of awe reduced the desire to continue watching pornography.

Life meaning

The ‘life meaning induction’ showed the strongest effects. Todorovic explains: “When something meaningful in life is brought to mind – such as things and people we admire, our goals, or other ideas that connect us to deeper meaning – this reduces the desire for pornography. Watching pornography is then seen as a less important kind of temporary pleasure.”

Resilience

According to Ostafin, this finding could be an important starting point for helping people who feel their pornography use is problematic. “The findings of our study speak to the importance of building a meaningful life, which can then help to create resilience against powerful urges.” Todorovic adds: “Of course, research and clinicians should further assist with the development and implementation of such an approach.”