Pornography has come a long way since the days of Playboy and Penthouse magazines. Prior to 2000, access to pornographic images was limited, and it was not a significant issue in terms of sexual health and development for young people. However, with the advent of the internet, access to pornography has become much more widespread and easily accessible. Research shows that today, the internet is the primary source of pornography for young people, and that the majority of this porn is free, violent, and based on the degradation and abuse of women.
This easy access to hardcore pornography is having a significant negative impact on the social, sexual, emotional, and cognitive development of young people. Studies have shown that early exposure to pornography can lead to distorted views of relationships and sexuality, as well as increased aggression towards women. It can also negatively impact mental health and lead to addiction.
To combat these harms, Culture Reframed, a non-profit organization founded by Dr. Gail Dines, has developed a series of educational programs designed to help build resilience and resistance in young people to pornography and hypersexualized media. These programs are based on a public health approach and are scientifically credible. They focus on promoting healthy development, relationships, and sexuality, and help young people understand the harms of a pornified society.
The work of Dr. Dines and Culture Reframed is also the focus of a film by the Media Education Foundation called Pornland: The Documentary. This film brings attention to the harms of pornography and the need for education and prevention programs to protect young people.
In conclusion, early access to hardcore pornography is having a significant negative impact on the development of young people. It is important to address this issue through education and prevention programs that promote healthy development, relationships, and sexuality. Culture Reframed’s Parents Programs are one such solution that provide scientifically credible and effective tools to build resilience and resistance in young people to pornography and hypersexualized media.
