Pornography

I've been thinking about a distorted view of sexuality which we call pornography. Pornography refers to the portrayal of explicit or graphic material for the purpose of sexual arousal or erotic stimulation. In days gone by the usual way to access pornography was to go to a store where pornographic magazines and videos were sold. One ran the risk of being seen going into the adult store which for some acted as a deterrent. However, with the advent of the internet, the accessability and affordability of pornography has increased the ease with which one can acquire all types of porn, not to mention the anonymity of access. Wireless internet and cellular phones allow a person to view porn in the privacy of his or her own home or  car.

One recent study found that 20% of Christian women and 50% of Christian men struggle with using pornographic materials. In most of these cases, the use of porn leads to sexual addiction. Experts say that addiction to pornography increases the supply of serotonin, the "feel-good" chemical in the brain, which is why sexual addiction is so captivating and hard to break. Sexual addiction is also like other addictions in that there is usually escalation in the use of pornography and other graphic sexual materials in order to achieve the desired "high" one receives. This is why sexual addicts often cross over from the virtual reality of porn to actual physical sexual contact which can lead sex addicts to become involved in criminal activity to satisfy their addiction.

Addiction to pornography is a dangerous trap which can imperil one's marriage. Partners feel betrayed when they discover their spouse has been viewing images of anonymous persons in various sexual poses. If you are trapped in pornography or any type of sexual addiction, there is hope. However, you will not conquer this addiction on your own; you will need counseling and a small group of friends (same gender) to help you with accountability so that you can overcome your addiction.

There is emotional and spiritual healing available in Christ, who said, "The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy. I have come that people may have life and have it to the fullest extent."

Tom Horst, Marriage and Family Therapist