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Prantner S, Giménez-García C, Espino-Payá A, Escrig MA, Ruiz-Padial E, Ballester-Arnal R, Pastor MC. The standardization of a new Explicit Pornographic Picture Set (EPPS). Behav Res Methods 2024; 56:7261-7279. [PMID: 38693442 PMCID: PMC11362205 DOI: 10.3758/s13428-024-02418-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Pictures with affective content have been extensively used in scientific studies of emotion and sexuality. However, only a few standardized picture sets have been developed that offer explicit images, with most lacking pornographic pictures depicting diverse sexual practices. This study aimed to fill this gap through developing a standardized affective set of diverse pornographic pictures (masturbation, oral sex, vaginal sex, anal sex, group sex, paraphilia) of same-sex and opposite-sex content, offering dimensional affective ratings of valence, arousal, and dominance, as well as co-elicited discrete emotions (disgust, moral and ethical acceptance). In total, 192 pornographic pictures acquired from online pornography platforms and 24 control IAPS images have been rated by 319 participants (Mage = 22.66, SDage = 4.66) with self-reported same- and opposite-sex sexual attraction. Stimuli were representative of the entire affective space, including positively and negatively perceived pictures. Participants showed differential affective perception of pornographic pictures according to gender and sexual attraction. Differences in affective ratings related to participants' gender and sexual attraction, as well as stimuli content (depicted sexual practices and sexes). From the stimuli set, researchers can select explicit pornographic pictures based on the obtained affective ratings and technical parameters (i.e., pixel size, luminosity, color space, contrast, chromatic complexity, spatial frequency, entropy). The stimuli set may be considered a valid tool of diverse explicit pornographic pictures covering the affective space, in particular, for women and men with same- and opposite-sex sexual attraction. This new explicit pornographic picture set (EPPS) is available to the scientific community for non-commercial use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Prantner
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - Cristina Giménez-García
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - Alejandro Espino-Payá
- Institute for Biomagnetism and Biosignalanalysis, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Miguel A Escrig
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Rafael Ballester-Arnal
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - M Carmen Pastor
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, Castelló de la Plana, Spain.
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Ben Brahim F, Courtois R, Vera Cruz G, Khazaal Y. Predictors of compulsive cyberporn use: A machine learning analysis. Addict Behav Rep 2024; 19:100542. [PMID: 38560011 PMCID: PMC10979147 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2024.100542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Compulsive cyberporn use (CCU) has previously been reported among people who use cyberporn. However, most of the previous studies included convenience samples of students or samples of the general adult population. Research examining the factors that predict or are associated with CCU are still scarce.In this study, we aimed to (a) assess compulsive cyberporn consumption in a broad sample of people who had used cyberporn and (b) determine, among a diverse range of predictor variables, which are most important in CCU scores, as assessed with the eight-item Compulsive Internet Use Scale adapted for cyberporn. Materials and Methods Overall, 1584 adult English speakers (age: 18-75 years, M = 33.18; sex: 63.1 % male, 35.2 % female, 1.7 % nonbinary) who used cyberporn during the last 6 months responded to an online questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic, sexual, psychological, and psychosocial variables. Their responses were subjected to correlation analysis, analysis of variance, and machine learning analysis. Results Among the participants, 21.96% (in the higher quartile) presented CCU symptoms in accordance with their CCU scores. The five most important predictors of CCU scores were related to the users' strength of craving for pornography experiences, suppression of negative emotions porn use motive, frequency of cyberporn use over the past year, acceptance of rape myths, and anxious attachment style. Conclusions From a large and diverse pool of variables, we determined the most important predictors of CCU scores. The findings contribute to a better understanding of problematic pornography use and could enrich compulsive cyberporn treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Ben Brahim
- University of Tours, QualiPsy, Tours, France
- Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Germano Vera Cruz
- Department of Psychology, UR 7273 CRP-CPO, University of Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Yasser Khazaal
- Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Montreal University, Canada
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Villena-Moya A, Granero R, Chiclana-Actis C, Potenza MN, Blycker GR, Demetrovics Z, Bőthe B, Steward T, Fernández-Aranda F, Jiménez-Murcia S, Mestre-Bach G. Spanish Validation of the Long and Short Versions of the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS and PPCS-6) in Adolescents. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:673-687. [PMID: 37845419 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02700-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Although 1-14% of adolescents may experience problematic pornography use (PPU), psychometrically sound instruments for assessing PPU in Spanish-speaking adolescents are scarce. Given the advantages of the different forms of the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS), the aim of the present study was to assess the psychometric properties of the PPCS and PPCS-6, and to examine associations between PPU and age among boys and girls. Two school-based adolescent samples were recruited in Spain (n = 650; Mage = 16.0 [SD = 1.1]; 50% girls and 50% boys) and Mexico (n1, 160; Mage = 15.8 [SD = 1.1]; 68% girls) to assess the psychometric properties of the PPCS and PPCS-6. Confirmatory factor analysis was applied and convergent and discriminant validity with other measures related to PPU was also tested. The results provided empirical support for the six-factor structure of the PPCS and the one-factor structure of the PPCS-6. Boys with older age showed higher levels of tolerance than girls on the PPCS in both countries. Both the PPCS and the PPCS-6 may be considered valid psychometric instruments for the assessment of PPU in Spanish-speaking adolescents from Spain and Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Villena-Moya
- Centro de Investigación, Transferencia e Innovación, Universidad Internacional de la Rioja, La Rioja, 26006, Spain
- Unidad de Sexología Clínica y Salud Sexual de la Consulta Dr. Carlos Chiclana, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roser Granero
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia de les Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Chiclana-Actis
- Centro de Investigación, Transferencia e Innovación, Universidad Internacional de la Rioja, La Rioja, 26006, Spain
- Unidad de Sexología Clínica y Salud Sexual de la Consulta Dr. Carlos Chiclana, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry and Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gretchen R Blycker
- College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Zsolt Demetrovics
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar, Gibraltar
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Beáta Bőthe
- Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec á Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Trevor Steward
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Mestre-Bach
- Centro de Investigación, Transferencia e Innovación, Universidad Internacional de la Rioja, La Rioja, 26006, Spain.
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Prantner S, Giménez-García C, Espino-Payá A, Escrig MA, Fuentes-Sánchez N, Ballester-Arnal R, Pastor MC. Female Affective Perception of Mainstream and Paraphilic Pornography: Associations with Sexual and Psychological Intrapersonal Variables. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:715-733. [PMID: 37863863 PMCID: PMC10844147 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02701-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Understanding affective perceptual processes can further contribute to the explanation of motivation and actions, as well as sexual risk behaviors. Pornography can be considered salient emotional content and is popular, also among females. Yet, the female perspective on pornography has often been overlooked and it remains unclear how individual variables may be associated with the affective perception of pornography and could provide a risk profile. Possible associations between several sexual and psychological intrapersonal variables and the affective perception of various forms of pornography were analyzed from the female perspective. A sample of 231 females (M = 21.87 years; SD = 3.9 years) provided ratings of affective valence, arousal, disgust, and moral and ethical acceptance for mainstream pornographic and paraphilic images of dominance, submission, or sexual violence. Paraphilic pornography was perceived as less pleasant, arousing, and moral and ethically acceptable, but more disgusting compared to mainstream pornography. This was more pronounced among females who had never consumed pornography. Results further suggest that the female affective perception of pornography was associated with the following sexual intrapersonal variables: sexual sensation seeking for physical sensations, erotophilia, lack of sexual control, problematic pornography consumption, and sexual disgust sensitivity. Of the assessed psychological intrapersonal variables, only anxiety was negatively associated with disgust for paraphilic pornography. It is important to further analyze the female affective perception of pornography and associated variables to include them in strategies for prevention and for addressing problematic consequences of the acceptance of specific sexual content and behaviors, especially related to sexualized violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Prantner
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, 12071, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - Cristina Giménez-García
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, 12071, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - Alejandro Espino-Payá
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, 12071, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
- Institute for Biomagnetism and Biosignalanalysis, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Miguel A Escrig
- Departamento de Psicología. Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Nieves Fuentes-Sánchez
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, 12071, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - Rafael Ballester-Arnal
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, 12071, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - M Carmen Pastor
- Departamento de Psicología Básica, Clínica y Psicobiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universitat Jaume I, 12071, Castelló de la Plana, Spain.
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Starcevic V, Eslick GD, Viswasam K, Billieux J, Gainsbury SM, King DL, Berle D. Problematic online behaviors and psychopathology in Australia. Psychiatry Res 2023; 327:115405. [PMID: 37557057 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to ascertain frequency rates and predictors of six problematic online behaviors (POBs) in an Australian sample. Participants (N = 1626) completed instruments measuring problematic online gaming, cyberchondria, problematic cybersex, problematic online shopping, problematic use of social networking sites, problematic online gambling, anxiety, depression and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Each POB was presumed to be present based on the cut-off score on the corresponding instrument and at least one indicator of interference with functioning. Generalized linear model analyses were used to determine socio-demographic and psychopathological predictors of each POB. The most common POB was problematic online shopping (12.2%), followed by problematic online gambling (11.4%), problematic use of social networking sites (6.0%), problematic cybersex (5.3%), problematic online gaming (5.2%) and cyberchondria (4.6%). Age group 27-36 had the highest rates of POBs. The intensity of ADHD symptoms predicted all POBs, whereas younger age predicted all POBs except for problematic cybersex and online gambling. Female gender predicted lower scores on the measures of problematic online gaming and cybersex. These findings have implications for age- and gender-adapted education, prevention and treatment efforts and suggest that specific POBs should be investigated separately instead of lumping them together under the umbrella terms such as "Internet addiction".
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladan Starcevic
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, Nepean Clinical School, Specialty of Psychiatry, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Nepean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, PO Box 63, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia.
| | - Guy D Eslick
- NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health, Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Kirupamani Viswasam
- Nepean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, PO Box 63, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Joël Billieux
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre for Excessive Gambling, Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospitals (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sally M Gainsbury
- Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Daniel L King
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David Berle
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, Australia
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6
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Development of an Instrument to Assess Expectations for the Use of Online Gaming, Social Networking Sites, and Online Pornography: the Marburg Internet Use Expectations (MINUS-X) Questionnaire. Int J Ment Health Addict 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00960-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractUser’s expectations contribute to the maintenance of problematic use of online gaming (OG), social networking (SN), and online pornography (OP). Since an instrument to assess use expectations across applications is lacking, this study aimed at developing and testing such a questionnaire. It consists of a general module (GM), which includes expectations relevant to all three applications, and three application-specific modules. A pilot and a validation study were conducted with 2880 German adults. We conducted item analyses, exploratory factor analyses (EFA), exploratory structural equation modelling, and correlation analyses. The EFA revealed six factors for the GM and two factors for each specific module. The GM demonstrated measurement invariance between applications. The instrument showed excellent psychometric properties, indicating its suitability for assessing expectations concerning the use of OG, SN, and OG reliably and validly. It could be helpful for treating patients with problematic use of the applications and investigating the role of the relevant expectations.
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Marino C, Melodia F, Pivetta E, Mansueto G, Palmieri S, Caselli G, Canale N, Vieno A, Conti F, Spada MM. Desire thinking and craving as predictors of problematic Internet pornography use in women and men. Addict Behav 2023; 136:107469. [PMID: 36055058 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to the recent adaptation of the I-PACE model, desire thinking and craving might be closely related to problematic Internet pornography use. The overall aim of the present study was to investigate the role of two components of desire thinking (imaginal prefiguration and verbal perseveration) and craving in problematic Internet pornography use. Furthermore, we examined gender differences in the underlying mechanism linking desire thinking to problematic Internet pornography use. METHOD A total of 414 Italian adults (mean age = 27.55 years, SD = 6.13; age range = 18-58; 53.6 % men) participated in this study. Participants completed an online survey to assess problematic Internet pornography use, pornography craving, desire thinking and problematic Internet use. Path analyses and a multi-group approach were used to test the relationships among variables and to explore gender differences. RESULTS Imaginal prefiguration was associated to pornography craving which, in turn, was associated to verbal perseveration as proximal antecedent of problematic Internet pornography use, above and beyond the effect of age, relationship status, and problematic Internet use. Two paths significantly differed between men and women: the path between verbal perseveration and problematic Internet pornography, which for women was weaker and did not reach significance; and the path between problematic Internet use and problematic Internet pornography use that was not significant for women. CONCLUSIONS In line with the I-PACE model, the present study provided support for the potential role of desire thinking in problematic Internet pornography use as a specific Internet-use disorder and expanded the literature in the field by testing unexplored gender differences. Preventive and clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Marino
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK.
| | - Fiordalisa Melodia
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Erika Pivetta
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Mansueto
- Studi Cognitivi, Cognitive Psychotherapy School and Research Center, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy; Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Sara Palmieri
- Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK; Studi Cognitivi, Cognitive Psychotherapy School and Research Center, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Caselli
- Studi Cognitivi, Cognitive Psychotherapy School and Research Center, Milan, Italy; Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy.
| | - Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Francesca Conti
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Marcantonio M Spada
- Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK.
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Utilisation problématique de pornographie en ligne chez les hommes et les femmes : facteurs discriminants et prédictifs. SEXOLOGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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9
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Chen L, Jiang X, Wang Q, Bőthe B, Potenza MN, Wu H. The Association between the Quantity and Severity of Pornography Use: A Meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2022; 59:704-719. [PMID: 34723731 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1988500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Although the quantity of pornography use (QPU, i.e., frequency/time spent on pornography use) has been positively associated with the severity of pornography use (i.e., problematic pornography use, PPU), the magnitudes of relationships have varied across studies. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the overall relationships and identify potential moderating variables to explain the variation in these associations between QPU and PPU. We performed a literature search for all published and unpublished studies from 1995 to 2020 in major online scientific databases up until December 2020. Sixty-one studies were identified with 82 independent samples involving 74,880 participants. Results indicated that there was a positive, moderate relationship between QPU and PPU (r = 0.34, p < .001). The strength of relationship significantly varied across measures of PPU based on different theoretical frameworks, indicators of QPU, and sexual cultural contexts (conservative vs. permissive sexual values). Frequency was a more robust quantitative indicator of PPU than time spent on pornography use. In conservative countries, QPU showed more robust association with self-perceived PPU. Future studies are encouraged to select the measurement of PPU according to research aims and use multi-item measures with demonstrated content validity to assess pornography use. Cross-cultural (conservative/permissive) comparisons also warrant further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Chen
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Fuzhou University
| | - Xiaoliu Jiang
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Fuzhou University
| | - Qiqi Wang
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Fuzhou University
| | - Beáta Bőthe
- Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine
- Department of Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine
- Connecticut Mental Health Center
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling
| | - Huijuan Wu
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Fuzhou University
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Wang J, Chen Y, Zhang H. Electrophysiological Evidence of Enhanced Processing of Novel Pornographic Images in Individuals With Tendencies Toward Problematic Internet Pornography Use. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:897536. [PMID: 35814959 PMCID: PMC9259837 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.897536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Novelty seeking is regarded as a core feature in substance use disorders. However, few studies thus far have investigated this feature in problematic Internet pornography use (PIPU). The main aim of the present study was to examine group differences in electrophysiological activity associated with novelty processing in participants with high tendencies toward PIPU vs. low tendencies using event-related potentials (ERPs). Twenty-seven participants with high tendencies toward PIPU and 25 with low tendencies toward PIPU completed a modified three-stimulus oddball task while electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded. Participants were instructed to detect neutral target stimuli from distracting stimuli. The distracting stimuli contained a familiar sexual stimulus and a set of novel sexual stimuli. The novel-familiar difference waves were calculated to identify specific group difference in novelty effect. While both groups demonstrated a sustained novelty effect in the late positive potential (LPP) within the 500–800 ms time windows, the novelty effect was greater in the high tendencies toward PIPU group than in the low tendencies toward PIPU group. This result suggests that individuals with high tendencies toward PIPU allocate more attentional resources for novelty processing. Enhanced brain responding to novel sexual stimuli may facilitate pornographic consumption and play an essential role in the development and maintenance of PIPU.
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Problematic Internet Pornography Use and Psychological Distress among Emerging Adults in Malaysia: Gender as a Moderator. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063682. [PMID: 35329369 PMCID: PMC8951151 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Internet pornography use (IPU) refers to Internet-based sexually explicit materials that are ultimately used to elicit sexual feelings or thoughts. The accessibility of Internet pornography could lead to excessive exposure to pornographic messages, posing a risk to heavy users’ psychological health. This paper offers a preliminary understanding of the relationship between Internet pornography use and psychological distress among emerging adults and the moderating role of gender in the association. This cross-sectional study has taken a purposive sampling approach to recruit 144 emerging adult pornography users via the online survey method. The results indicated that males reported having more problematic Internet pornography use, and there were no gender differences in psychological distress. Meanwhile, gender is a significant moderator between Internet pornography use and psychological distress. The females were found to be more psychologically affected by their problematic Internet pornography use than the males. Overall, this study has provided a novel finding of the moderating role of gender in problematic Internet pornography use and psychological distress in the Malaysian context. This study also calls for a gender-focused sexual health programme for Malaysian emerging adults. Furthermore, the scores of problematic IPU in this study raise a concern over the effectiveness of current sex education in Malaysia. The scores may highlight the need to provide education targeting Internet pornography use.
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12
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Mennig M, Tennie S, Barke A. Self-Perceived Problematic Use of Online Pornography Is Linked to Clinically Relevant Levels of Psychological Distress and Psychopathological Symptoms. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:1313-1321. [PMID: 34791580 PMCID: PMC8888508 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02101-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Online pornography is a widespread Internet application. As with other Internet applications, in some cases its use can become problematic. First indications point to a link between problematic use of online pornography and psychological distress and general functional impairment. However, to date, there are no standardized criteria for assessing problematic use of online pornography. In this study, we used the Online Pornography Disorder Questionnaire (OPDQ)-an instrument which adapted the official criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder to online pornography-to measure problematic use and investigated to what extent consumers with a self-perceived problematic use of online pornography differed from casual users with regard to their psychological distress. An online sample of German adult visitors to a popular casual dating site completed the OPDQ, the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), and provided information on their online pornography use (n = 1539; 72.6% male; 31.43 ± 11.96 years). T-scores for the BSI were calculated and independent t-tests were conducted to compare casual users with consumers with a self-perceived problematic use of online pornography. Of the users, 5.9% fulfilled the criteria for problematic use. This group consumed online pornography for longer amounts of time and showed higher levels of psychological distress (Hedges' g from 0.75 to 1.21). The T-scores of users with self-perceived problematic online pornography use reached clinically relevant levels on all subscales. Overall, the results of the study indicate that self-perceived problematic use of online pornography seems to be linked to severe psychological distress that may warrant clinical attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Mennig
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Gutenbergstrasse 18, 35032, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Sophia Tennie
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Gutenbergstrasse 18, 35032, Marburg, Germany
| | - Antonia Barke
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Catholic University of Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Ingolstadt, Germany
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- Maèva Flayelle
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland,Corresponding author
| | - Séverine Lannoy
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, USA
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Sharpe M, Mead D. Problematic Pornography Use: Legal and Health Policy Considerations. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2021; 8:556-567. [PMID: 34518793 PMCID: PMC8426110 DOI: 10.1007/s40429-021-00390-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Reports of sexual violence, especially towards women and children, are rapidly increasing. At the same time, rates of problematic pornography use (PPU) are accelerating across the world too. The purpose of this review is to consider the recent research on PPU and its contribution to sexual violence. The article offers guidance to governments on possible health policy interventions and legal actions to prevent the development of PPU and to reduce the incidence of sexual violence in society. Recent Findings Working from the consumer’s point of view, we identify PPU and ask how much pornography is needed to cause PPU. We examine how PPU drives sexual offending in children, adolescents and adults. The impact of PPU on some consumers’ behaviour suggests significant links to domestic violence. Sexual strangulation is highlighted as an example. Artificial intelligence algorithms play a key role in the pornography industry and appear to be driving escalation to more violent material, inducing high levels of sexual dysfunction in consumers and creating appetites for viewing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Summary Easy access to internet pornography has led to an increase in PPU and sexual violence. Diagnoses and treatments for PPU are examined, as are legal transgressions of a civil and criminal nature arising from PPU. Legal remedies and government policy implications are discussed from the point of view of the precautionary principle. Strategies covered include age verification for pornography, public health campaigns and embedded health and legal warnings for users at the start of pornography sessions along with lessons for pupils about pornography’s impact on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Sharpe
- The Reward Foundation, The Melting Pot, 15 Calton Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8DL UK.,Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0BU UK
| | - Darryl Mead
- The Reward Foundation, The Melting Pot, 15 Calton Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8DL UK
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15
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Problematic and non-problematic engagement in Online Sexual Activities across the lifespan. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.106774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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16
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Castro-Calvo J, Cervigón-Carrasco V, Ballester-Arnal R, Giménez-García C. Cognitive processes related to problematic pornography use (PPU): A systematic review of experimental studies. Addict Behav Rep 2021; 13:100345. [PMID: 33948482 PMCID: PMC8080450 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2021.100345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Some people experience symptoms and negative outcomes derived from their persistent, excessive, and problematic engagement in pornography viewing (i.e., Problematic Pornography Use, PPU). Recent theoretical models have turned to different cognitive processes (e.g., inhibitory control, decision making, attentional bias, etc.) to explain the development and maintenance of PPU, but empirical evidence derived from experimental studies is still limited. In this context, the present systematic review aimed to review and compile the evidence around cognitive processes related to PPU. METHODS A systematic review was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines to compile evidence regarding cognitive processes related to PPU. We retained and analyzed 21 experimental studies addressing this topic. RESULTS Studies were focused on four cognitive processes: attentional bias, inhibitory control, working memory, and decision making. In brief, PPU is related to (a) attentional biases toward sexual stimuli, (b) deficient inhibitory control (in particular, to problems with motor response inhibition and to shift attention away from irrelevant stimuli), (c) worse performance in tasks assessing working memory, and (d) decision making impairments (in particular, to preferences for short-term small gains rather than long-term large gains, more impulsive choice patterns than non-erotica users, approach tendencies toward sexual stimuli, and inaccuracies when judging the probability and magnitude of potential outcomes under ambiguity). CONCLUSION This systematic review offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the cognitive features related to PPU, and points out new areas that warrants further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Castro-Calvo
- Department of Personality, Assessment, and Psychological Treatments, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Spain
| | - V. Cervigón-Carrasco
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat Jaume I, Spain
| | - R. Ballester-Arnal
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat Jaume I, Spain
| | - C. Giménez-García
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat Jaume I, Spain
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17
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Kahveci S, van Bockstaele B, Blechert J, Wiers RW. Pulling for pleasure? Erotic approach-bias associated with porn use, not problems. LEARNING AND MOTIVATION 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lmot.2020.101656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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18
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Wang J, Dai B. Event-related potentials in a two-choice oddball task of impaired behavioral inhibitory control among males with tendencies towards cybersex addiction. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:785-796. [PMID: 32903206 PMCID: PMC8943673 DOI: 10.1556/jba-9-785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Impaired behavioral inhibitory control (BIC) is known to play a crucial role in addictive behavior. However, research has been inconclusive as to whether this is also the case for cybersex addiction. This study aimed to investigate the time course of BIC in male individuals with tendencies towards cybersex addiction (TCA) using event-related potentials (ERPs) and to provide neurophysiological evidence of their deficient BIC. METHODS Thirty-six individuals with TCA and 36 healthy controls (HCs) were given a Two-Choice Oddball task that required them to respond differently to frequent standard stimuli (images of people) and infrequent deviant stimuli (pornographic images) within 1,000 ms. Electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded as the participants performed the task. RESULTS Despite the similarity of standard stimuli between the groups in terms of reaction times (RTs), the RTs of the TCA group to deviant stimuli were much slower than those of the HC group. The behavioral difference was accompanied by group differences in the averaged amplitudes of N2 (200-300 ms) and P3 (300-500 ms) components in the deviant-standard difference wave. More specifically, compared to the HC group, the TCA group demonstrated smaller N2 and P3 amplitude differences for deviant than standard stimuli. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Individuals with TCA were more impulsive than HC participants and shared neuropsychological and ERP characteristics of substance use disorder or behavioral addictions, which supports the view that cybersex addiction can be conceptualized as a behavioral addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Wang
- School of Psychology, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China
| | - Bing Dai
- School of Psychology, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610500, China
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19
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Sexual addiction 25 years on: A systematic and methodological review of empirical literature and an agenda for future research. Clin Psychol Rev 2020; 82:101925. [PMID: 33038740 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2020.101925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In 1998, Gold and Heffner authored a landmark review in Clinical Psychology Review on the topic of sexual addiction that concluded that sexual addiction, though increasingly popular in mental health settings, was largely based on speculation, with virtually no empirical basis. In the more than two decades since that review, empirical research around compulsive sexual behaviors (which subsumes prior research about sexual addiction) has flourished, ultimately culminating in the inclusion of a novel diagnosis of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder in the eleventh edition of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Diseases. The present work details a systematic review of empirical research published between January 1st, 1995 and August 1st, 2020 related to compulsive sexual behaviors, with a specific focus on evaluating the methodologies of that literature. This review yielded 371 papers detailing 415 individual studies. In general, the present review finds that, although research related to compulsive sexual behaviors has proliferated, much of this work is characterized by simplistic methodological designs, a lack of theoretical integration, and an absence of quality measurement. Moreover, the present review finds a virtual absence of high-quality treatment-related research published within this time frame. Implications of these findings for both clinical practice and future research are discussed.
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20
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Wang J, Dai B. Event-related potentials in a two-choice oddball task of impaired behavioral inhibitory control among males with tendencies towards cybersex addiction. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:785-796. [PMID: 32903206 PMCID: PMC8943673 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Impaired behavioral inhibitory control (BIC) is known to play a crucial role in addictive behavior. However, research has been inconclusive as to whether this is also the case for cybersex addiction. This study aimed to investigate the time course of BIC in male individuals with tendencies towards cybersex addiction (TCA) using event-related potentials (ERPs) and to provide neurophysiological evidence of their deficient BIC. METHODS Thirty-six individuals with TCA and 36 healthy controls (HCs) were given a Two-Choice Oddball task that required them to respond differently to frequent standard stimuli (images of people) and infrequent deviant stimuli (pornographic images) within 1,000 ms. Electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded as the participants performed the task. RESULTS Despite the similarity of standard stimuli between the groups in terms of reaction times (RTs), the RTs of the TCA group to deviant stimuli were much slower than those of the HC group. The behavioral difference was accompanied by group differences in the averaged amplitudes of N2 (200-300 ms) and P3 (300-500 ms) components in the deviant-standard difference wave. More specifically, compared to the HC group, the TCA group demonstrated smaller N2 and P3 amplitude differences for deviant than standard stimuli. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Individuals with TCA were more impulsive than HC participants and shared neuropsychological and ERP characteristics of substance use disorder or behavioral addictions, which supports the view that cybersex addiction can be conceptualized as a behavioral addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bing Dai
- Corresponding authors. E-mail: E-mail:
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21
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Kowalewska E, Gola M, Kraus SW, Lew-Starowicz M. Spotlight on Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder: A Systematic Review of Research on Women. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:2025-2043. [PMID: 32943868 PMCID: PMC7478918 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s221540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW World Health Organization recently included compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) to the upcoming 11th edition of International Classification of Diseases (6C72). Despite the potential benefits of this decision (eg, the acceleration of research in the field will allow the development of effective treatments), previous research focused mainly on men, and as a result, we do not have an accurate clinical picture of compulsive sexual behavior (CSB) among women. Therefore, in this systematic review, we aim to present available knowledge on this topical subject. Literature search was conducted in the guideline of PRISMA methodology. Studies were identified from multiple databases including Academic Search Ultimate, SocINDEX, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, PubMed, and MEDLINE. Out of a total of 10,531 articles identified and screened, 58 were included in this review. Included studies covered the following topics: prevalence and etiology of CSB, behavioral and cognitive processes involved, comorbidities, personality traits, psychosocial and interpersonal difficulties, traumatic experiences, and treatments. RECENT FINDINGS Available studies indicate that CSB symptom severity is lower in women than in men. Overall, women reported consuming pornography less often than men and exhibit lower rates of feeling urges to these materials. CSB symptoms (including problematic pornography use) have been found to be positively related to trait psychopathy, impulsivity, sensation seeking, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, obsessive-compulsive disorder, pathological buying, sexual dysfunctions, general psychopathology, child sexual abuse, while negatively related to dispositional mindfulness. SUMMARY Conclusions that can be drawn from prior studies are considerably limited. There are no accurate estimates of the CSB prevalence or severity among women, and studies have been mostly conducted on non-clinical populations, which has limited application for women diagnosed with CSBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Kowalewska
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz Gola
- Swartz Center for Computational Neuroscience, Institute for Neural Computations, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Shane W Kraus
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Michal Lew-Starowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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The Addictive Nature of Compulsive Sexual Behaviours and Problematic Online Pornography Consumption: A Review. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ADDICTION 2020. [DOI: 10.1097/cxa.0000000000000091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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23
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Hermand M, Benyamina A, Donnadieu-Rigole H, Petillion A, Amirouche A, Roméo B, Karila L. Addictive Use of Online Sexual Activities and its Comorbidities: a Systematic Review. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40429-020-00301-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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24
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Wéry A, Canale N, Bell C, Duvivier B, Billieux J. Problematic online sexual activities in men: The role of self‐esteem, loneliness, and social anxiety. HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/hbe2.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aline Wéry
- Psychological Sciences Research InstituteUniversité Catholique de Louvain Louvain‐la‐Neuve Belgium
| | - Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental and Social PsychologyUniversity of Padova Padova Italy
| | - Caroline Bell
- Institute for Health and Behaviour, Department of Behavioural and Cognitive SciencesUniversity of Luxembourg Esch‐sur‐Alzette Luxembourg
| | - Benoit Duvivier
- Psychological Sciences Research InstituteUniversité Catholique de Louvain Louvain‐la‐Neuve Belgium
| | - Joël Billieux
- Psychological Sciences Research InstituteUniversité Catholique de Louvain Louvain‐la‐Neuve Belgium
- Institute for Health and Behaviour, Department of Behavioural and Cognitive SciencesUniversity of Luxembourg Esch‐sur‐Alzette Luxembourg
- Institute of PsychologyUniversity of Lausanne Lausanne Switzerland
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25
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Antons S, Matthias B. Inhibitory control and problematic Internet-pornography use - The important balancing role of the insula. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:58-70. [PMID: 32359231 PMCID: PMC8935194 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Diminished control over a specific behavior is a core characteristic in addictive behaviors such as problematic Internet-pornography (IP) use. First studies suggest that a hyperactivity of the impulsive system is one reason for impulsive behaviors in the context of problematic IP use. The tripartite-process theory of addiction explains neurocognitive mechanisms beyond common dual-process theories in addictive behaviors. However, the role of the reflective and interoceptive system is still unresolved. METHODS The study comprised a stop-signal task (SST) including neutral and pornographic images during fMRI and questionnaires to investigate associations between symptoms of problematic IP use, craving, and neural activity of the impulsive, reflective, and interoceptive system. We examined 28 heterosexual males with varying symptom severity of problematic IP use. RESULTS Data indicates that individuals with more symptoms of problematic IP use showed better performance in the SST which was linked to decreased insula and inferior frontal gyrus activity during pornographic image processing. An increase in craving was associated with lower activity of the ventral striatum during pornographic image processing. The interoceptive system showed varying effects. Increased insula activity during inhibitory control and decreased activity during pornographic image processing were associated with higher inhibitory control performance. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Effects of tolerance and motivational aspects may explain the better inhibitory control performance in individuals with higher symptom severity which was associated with differential activity of the interoceptive and reflective system. Diminished control over IP use presumably results from the interaction between the impulsive, reflective, and interoceptive systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Antons
- General Psychology: Cognition and Center for Behavioral Addiction Research (CeBAR), University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany,Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Essen, Germany
| | - Brand Matthias
- General Psychology: Cognition and Center for Behavioral Addiction Research (CeBAR), University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany,Erwin L. Hahn Institute for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Essen, Germany,Corresponding author. General Psychology: Cognition and Center for Behavioral Addiction Research (CeBAR), University of Duisburg-Essen, Forsthausweg 2, Duisburg, 47057, Germany. Tel.: +49 203 3792541; fax: +49 203 3791846. E-mail:
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26
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Studer J, Marmet S, Wicki M, Gmel G. Cybersex use and problematic cybersex use among young Swiss men: Associations with sociodemographic, sexual, and psychological factors. J Behav Addict 2019; 8:794-803. [PMID: 31868514 PMCID: PMC7044587 DOI: 10.1556/2006.8.2019.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Cybersex use (CU) is highly prevalent in Switzerland's population, particularly among young men. CU may have negative consequences if it gets out of control. This study estimated prevalence of CU, frequency of CU (FCU), and problematic CU (PCU) and their correlates. METHODS A non-selective sample of young Swiss men (N = 5,332, mean age = 25.45) completed a questionnaire assessing FCU and PCU, sociodemographics (age, linguistic region, and education), sexuality (being in a relationship, number of sexual partners, and sexual orientation), dysfunctional coping (denial, self-distraction, behavioral disengagement, and self-blame), and personality traits (aggression/hostility, sociability, anxiety/neuroticism, and sensation seeking). Associations were tested using hurdle and negative binomial regression models. RESULTS At least monthly CU was reported by 78.6% of participants. CU was associated positively with post-secondary schooling (vs. primary schooling), German-speaking (vs. French-speaking), homosexuality, bisexuality (vs. heterosexuality), more than one sexual partner (vs. one), dysfunctional coping (except denial), and all personality traits except sociability, but negatively with being in a relationship (vs. not), age, and sociability. FCU was associated positively with homosexuality, bisexuality, no or more than one sexual partner, dysfunctional coping (except denial), and all personality traits except sociability, but negatively with age, being in a relationship, and sociability. PCU was associated positively with bisexuality, four or more sexual partners, dysfunctional coping, and all personality traits except sociability, but negatively with German-speaking and sociability. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS CU should be viewed in light of its associations with sociodemographic, sexual, and psychological factors. Healthcare professionals should consider these aspects to adapt their interventions to patients' needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Studer
- Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Simon Marmet
- Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Wicki
- Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Gmel
- Addiction Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Research Department, Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
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Dwulit AD, Rzymski P. Prevalence, Patterns and Self-Perceived Effects of Pornography Consumption in Polish University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E1861. [PMID: 31137778 PMCID: PMC6571756 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16101861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This cross-sectional online survey of Polish students (n = 6463) assessed the frequency and patterns of pornography consumption, its self-perceived effects, the prevalence of self-perceived pornography addiction, and opinions on the potential effects of pornography and its legal status. Nearly 80% of students have been exposed to pornography (median age of first exposure: 14 years). Streaming videos were decidedly the most frequent form of use. In the subset of current users (n = 4260), daily use and self-perceived addiction was reported by 10.7% and 15.5%, respectively. The majority of those surveyed did not report any negative effects of pornography use on their sexual function, sexual, and relationship satisfaction. Instead, over one-quarter of students in relationships reported beneficial effects on its quality. The most common self-perceived adverse effects of pornography use included: the need for longer stimulation (12.0%) and more sexual stimuli (17.6%) to reach orgasm, and a decrease in sexual satisfaction (24.5%). Females and males with a Body Mass Index >25 kg/m2 more often reported a self-perceived decrease in relationship quality associated with pornography use. Age of first exposure was significantly associated with reported need for longer stimulation and more sexual stimuli to reach orgasm when using pornography, decrease in sexual satisfaction, and quality of romantic relationship, neglect of basic needs and duties due to pornography use, and self-perceived addiction in both females and males. The highest odds ratios were always observed for age <12 years in reference to exposure at >16 years. In the opinion of most of the surveyed students, pornography may have adverse effects on human health, although access restrictions should not be implemented. The study gives a broad insight into the pornography consumption in young Polish adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Diana Dwulit
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland.
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Barrada JR, Ruiz-Gómez P, Correa AB, Castro Á. Not all Online Sexual Activities Are the Same. Front Psychol 2019; 10:339. [PMID: 30863340 PMCID: PMC6399151 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Young people's use and participation in online sexual activities (OSA) has increased in the past two decades and has changed their behavior in the area of sexuality. The existing literature has some important limitations, concerning the assessment of the construct and its orientation toward problematic use, while ignoring its healthy use or social participation and its relationship with well-being. The main objective of this study was to analyze the relationships between the three types of OSA (compulsive, isolated, and social) proposed by Delmonico and Miller, as well as offline sexual behavior, and psychosexual well-being. It was also necessary to evaluate the factor structure of the Internet Sexual Screening Test (ISST). Participants were 1,147 university students of both sexes, aged between 18 and 26 years, who completed a battery of online questionnaires. The main finding of the study is that, when controlling for other online sexual behavior, different types of OSA evaluated relate differently to offline sexual behavior and to psychosexual well-being, and that most young people made healthy use and participation of OSA. It also presents a new structure of the ISST. The discussion emphasizes the need to recognize the positive consequences of OSA to implement programs for the promotion of sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ángel Castro
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, Universidad de Zaragoza, Teruel, Spain
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Varfi N, Rothen S, Jasiowka K, Lepers T, Bianchi-Demicheli F, Khazaal Y. Sexual Desire, Mood, Attachment Style, Impulsivity, and Self-Esteem as Predictive Factors for Addictive Cybersex. JMIR Ment Health 2019; 6:e9978. [PMID: 30664470 PMCID: PMC6360388 DOI: 10.2196/mental.9978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of studies are concerned with various aspects of cybersex addiction, the difficulty some persons have in limiting cybersex use despite a negative impact on everyday life. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess potential links between the outcome variable cybersex addiction, assessed with the Compulsive Internet Use Scale (CIUS) adapted for cybersex use, and several psychological and psychopathological factors, including sexual desire, mood, attachment style, impulsivity, and self-esteem, by taking into account the age, sex, and sexual orientation of cybersex users. METHODS A Web-based survey was conducted in which participants were assessed for sociodemographic variables and with the following instruments: CIUS adapted for cybersex use, Sexual Desire Inventory, and Short Depression-Happiness Scale. Moreover, attachment style was assessed with the Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised questionnaire (Anxiety and Avoidance subscales). Impulsivity was measured by using the Urgency, Premeditation (lack of), Perseverance (lack of), Sensation Seeking, Positive Urgency Impulsive Behavior Scale. Global self-esteem was assessed with the 1-item Self-Esteem Scale. RESULTS A sample of 145 subjects completed the study. Addictive cybersex use was associated with higher levels of sexual desire, depressive mood, avoidant attachment style, and male gender but not with impulsivity. CONCLUSIONS Addictive cybersex use is a function of sexual desire, depressive mood, and avoidant attachment.
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de Alarcón R, de la Iglesia JI, Casado NM, Montejo AL. Online Porn Addiction: What We Know and What We Don't-A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E91. [PMID: 30650522 PMCID: PMC6352245 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8010091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last few years, there has been a wave of articles related to behavioral addictions; some of them have a focus on online pornography addiction. However, despite all efforts, we are still unable to profile when engaging in this behavior becomes pathological. Common problems include: sample bias, the search for diagnostic instrumentals, opposing approximations to the matter, and the fact that this entity may be encompassed inside a greater pathology (i.e., sex addiction) that may present itself with very diverse symptomatology. Behavioral addictions form a largely unexplored field of study, and usually exhibit a problematic consumption model: loss of control, impairment, and risky use. Hypersexual disorder fits this model and may be composed of several sexual behaviors, like problematic use of online pornography (POPU). Online pornography use is on the rise, with a potential for addiction considering the "triple A" influence (accessibility, affordability, anonymity). This problematic use might have adverse effects in sexual development and sexual functioning, especially among the young population. We aim to gather existing knowledge on problematic online pornography use as a pathological entity. Here we try to summarize what we know about this entity and outline some areas worthy of further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén de Alarcón
- Psychiatry Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Javier I de la Iglesia
- Psychiatry Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Nerea M Casado
- Psychiatry Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Angel L Montejo
- Psychiatry Service, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Salamanca, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
- University of Salamanca, EUEF, 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
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Zhang S, Tian Y, Sui Y, Zhang D, Shi J, Wang P, Meng W, Si Y. Relationships Between Social Support, Loneliness, and Internet Addiction in Chinese Postsecondary Students: A Longitudinal Cross-Lagged Analysis. Front Psychol 2018; 9:1707. [PMID: 30258387 PMCID: PMC6143803 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Using the Internet has become one of the most popular leisure activities among postsecondary students in China. Concern about the large number of students using the Internet has led to an increase in research on the influencing factors of Internet addiction and the negative consequences caused by it. This short-term longitudinal study examined the associations among three dimensions of social support [objective support (OS), subjective support (SS), and support utilization (SU)], loneliness, and the four dimensions of Internet addiction (compulsive Internet use [CIU] & withdrawal from Internet addiction [WIA], tolerance of Internet addiction [TIA], time-management problems [TMPs], and interpersonal and health problems [IHPs]) in a Chinese sample. A total of 169 postsecondary first-year students (88 girls and 81 boys; mean age = 18.31 years) participated in the study. The questionnaire measurements were taken at the beginning of the school year (T1), 6 months later (T2), and 1 year later (T3). Cross-lagged and structural equation modeling analyses indicated that (a) OS (T1) and SU (T1) negatively predicted loneliness (T2); and loneliness (T2) negatively predicted OS (T3) and SU(T3); (b) CIU & WIA (T1) and TMPs (T1) positively predicted loneliness (T2); and loneliness (T2) positively predicted CIU & WIA (T3), TIA (T3), TMP (T3), and IHP (T3); (c) SS (T1) directly affected TIA (T3) and TMP (T3); and (d) loneliness (T2) played a mediating role in the relationships between OS (T1) and CIU (T3), OS (T1) and TMP (T3), OS (T1) and IHP (T3), and SU (T1) and IHP (T3). Finally, interventions for Internet addiction and implications for future studies were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Peng Wang
- Department of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
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