It begins from seeing it for a few seconds, and then just for a while, and then one video and before you know it a virgin adolescent mind is corrupted with the constant desire to see porn. Adolescence is the phase of life between childhood and adulthood, from ages ten – nineteen (10 – 19). It is that stage of development where the desire for a child to be an adult is at its strongest. Children at this stage wishes to explore and if not guided properly can engage in various unhealthy behaviour which can endanger their psychological and physical growth.
This stage is the foundation of the child’s future. Even though the age prior to this stage in a child’s life is equally important, the period of adolescence needs proper early explanation to things, so that these young may know the dangers of these things. One of the social education adolescents should be given is the dangers and negative effects of pornography.
There is a great deal of debate surrounding the effects of pornography on adolescents. Some research suggests that exposure to pornography can have negative effects on adolescent development, while other studies have found no significant impact. Some potential negative effects of pornography on adolescents include:
- Misplaced Priorities: The effect of pornography on people is very high especially when one is addicted. And people who are addicted most times do not even know it. The constant desire for porn makes a child lose interest for the real need to succeed in life. Porn addiction gradually leads one away from a true life purpose, which in the long run can lead to depression and generally the feeling of failure. This is why since it is difficult these days to protect adolescents and people from pornographic contents, it is very important to educate them on the dangers of pornography.
- Sexual objectification: Exposure to pornography can lead adolescents to view others, particularly women, as sexual objects rather than individuals with their own thoughts and feelings.
- Unrealistic expectations: Adolescents who view pornography may develop unrealistic expectations about sex and sexual relationships, leading to disappointment and frustration when their real-life experiences do not match what they have seen in pornography.
- Increased risk of sexual coercion: Some studies suggest that exposure to pornography may increase the risk of engaging in coercive or violent sexual behavior, particularly among males. And you do not want your child or ward to be engaged in sex crimes and be jailed for such for obvious reasons. This is why you must educate them on the need for discipline.
- Negative body image: Exposure to pornography can also lead to negative body image and dissatisfaction with one’s own body, as many performers in pornography have unrealistic body types. Having negative body image of oneself can turn into low self esteem, and in extreme case, depression.
It’s important to note that not all adolescents who view pornography will experience these negative effects, and that there are many factors that can influence how an individual responds to exposure to pornography. However, parents and caregivers may want to be aware of these potential risks and take steps to limit their children’s exposure to pornography, or at least engage in conversations about healthy sexual relationships and consent. Additionally, it may be helpful for adolescents who have been exposed to pornography to seek out resources such as therapy or counseling to address any negative effects they may be experiencing.
