Mental health professionals’ perspectives regarding pornography and the couple relationship

Abstract

According to Thauvette (2012) pornography “is the explicit description or exhibition of sexual subjects or sexual activity in literature, painting, film etc., in a manner intended to stimulate erotic rather than aesthetic feelings” (p. 1). Within the couple relationship, the consumption of pornography is seen to have advantages and disadvantages (Watson, 2010). The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of different mental health professionals who have worked therapeutically with couples or individuals in a relationship in which one or both partners consumed pornography. Participants were asked to share their thoughts regarding how pornography consumption shapes the couple relationship within a local context. Five semistructured interviews were conducted with professionals from various fields of specialisation. Data was analysed using Thematic Analysis and five over-arching themes were generated. Findings suggested that pornography impacts various aspects within the couple relationship. Findings indicated that secret pornography consumption can have a negative impact on the relationship, leading to feelings of betrayal on the part of the non-consumer. It was also found that pornography consumption can have a positive effect when it is mutually consumed, leading to better communication between individuals in a relationship. Further research on this topic from a local context could serve to inform practice and lessen the stigma surrounding pornography consumption. This might help the consumer to feel less ashamed to disclose his or her pornography use to their partner and encourage individuals in a relationship or couples who are struggling to seek appropriate support. Further research might help to increase awareness on both the positive and negative aspects of pornography and how these aspects might affect the individual and the couple relationship.