Pornography Use and Sexual Functioning Problems (1 CE)

Number of Credits: 1

This course is for: Clinical Psychologists, Counselors, and Marriage & Family Therapists

Course By: Ken Springer, PhD

Content By: Bőtthe, B., Tóth-Király, I., Griffiths, M. D., Potenza, M. N., Orosz, G., & Demetrovics, Z. (2020). Are sexual functioning problems associated with frequent pornography use and/or problematic pornography use? Results from a large community survey including males and females. Addictive Behaviors, 112.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106603

Course Description: Studies on associations between pornography use and sexual functioning problems have yielded inconsistent findings. The present study sought to better understand these associations by distinguishing between frequency of pornography use (FPU) and problematic pornography use (PPU),  and by considering gender differences. Sexual functioning problems measured in this study included lack of interest in sex, difficulty in becoming aroused, difficulty in achieving orgasm, and difficulty enjoying sex. Based on surveys administered to a large community sample, the researchers found that greater FPU was associated with a slight reduction in sexual functioning problems, while greater PPU was associated with a moderate increase in sexual functioning problems. Gender differences in these associations were not observed. The results suggest that FPU and PPU are distinct factors and should both be considered in therapeutic approaches intended to address sexual problems.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the rationale for the study as well as the way pornography use and sexual functioning problems were measured
2. Describe the main findings of the study concerning associations between FPU, PPU, and sexual functioning problems
3. Integrate the strengths and limitations of the study, and summarize the clinical implications for therapy in which sexual problems are addressed

Course Outline:

• Read and understand Are sexual functioning problems associated with frequent pornography use and/or problematic pornography use? Results from a large community survey including males and females
• Review the Course Description and Learning Objectives
• Understand the distinction between FPU and PPU and how this distinction informs the design of the present study
• Distinguish among the associations found between each type of pornography use (FPU or PPU) and sexual functioning problems
• Integrate the study's key findings, strengths, limitations, and clinical implications
• Work through the post-test questions, using the article as the sole basis for your answers
• Revisit the article for any missed questions and/or to better understand the associations between pornography use and sexual functioning problems

Approvals: