The Internet sex industry would like you to believe that cybersex is a hip, cheap and hassle-free alternative to a real relationship and a harmless cure for stress and loneliness. Unfortunately this myth is gaining acceptance in some circles. One of my friends recently told me his buddy had decided not to bother dating. He plans, instead, to hire a different prostitute online every two weeks and have her come to his house.
The truth is there are very real dangers associated by cybersex including the possibility of:
- Sexual dysfunction with real life partners when the sexual template is altered by porn
- Self induced trauma/addiction as a result of the combination of stress and isolation of modern life and excessive porn
- Erosion of social, financial, or physical health and danger of contracting STD’s
- Disruption of normal social and sexual development for youth
Internet porn is a particularly dangerous pastime for young people whose developing sexual template can be deformed and later ill-suited for real relationships. Many young people lack the opportunity to learn about healthy emotional and sexual intimacy. They need social and conversational skills to develop friendships or satisfying emotional connections that lead to more fulfilling and enduring relationships later in life. They certainly do not learn these skills from cyberporn. Most real life partners do not look like porn stars and do not want to engage in the sometimes violent and degrading behaviors that young porn watchers have learned to find arousing. Young consumers of cyberporn are using sex as a drug which, like any other drugs can increase their isolation and loneliness.
Remember the vendors of Internet porn are not interested in the viewer’s wellbeing, only in repeat customers and making money! If you are hooked on cybersex, confide in someone you trust and locate a qualified helping professional to begin recovery. Each of us has the potential to have healthy relationships with ourselves and others!
Sex Addiction Overview
