Let’s talk about something that’s usually kept behind closed doors.
It’s more common than you might think—and no, we’re not referring to your biscuit stash.
Many Australians engage in this digital activity, but new research hints that it may have a hidden cost we don’t often talk about.
A growing body of science is now raising questions about how this particular habit may be influencing our brain function.
What the science says
Researchers from Chengdu Medical College in China recently explored how viewing pornography affects the brain’s ability to focus, regulate impulses, and process emotions.
Their study involved two groups of university students—those who reported infrequent porn viewing, and those who admitted to heavy, even addictive, consumption.
Participants were asked to complete a classic attention and cognitive control task (think: naming the colour of a word, even when the word itself spells a different colour—more difficult than it sounds!).
They performed the test both before and after watching a 10-minute pornographic video, while researchers tracked their brain activity.
The results? After viewing explicit content, participants—particularly frequent viewers—demonstrated slower reaction times and made more errors.
Their brain scans showed patterns similar to those found in individuals with substance addictions and certain psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia.
Put simply, the brain’s executive functions (those responsible for decision-making, focus and self-control) were noticeably impaired.
Not just a young person’s issue
While the research centred on young adults, the findings raise important questions for people of all ages.
In the United States, nearly 70 per cent of men and 40 per cent of women view online pornography each year.
In Australia, a 2024 study found that 86 per cent of young men and 69 per cent of young women aged 15 to 20 have been exposed to pornography, with more than half of young men viewing it weekly.
This highlights that porn consumption is also widespread among Australian youth, reflecting similar global trends.
Among young adults aged 18 to 25, 57 per cent report viewing pornography monthly or more frequently, compared to 29 per cent of those aged 25 and older.
Porn addiction is more common among men, with 11 per cent admitting to struggling with it.
And frequency isn’t the only concern — even casual viewers showed cognitive changes like slower response times and reduced accuracy.
So, if you believed the occasional peek was harmless, it may be time to reconsider.
Emotional numbing: Another hidden cost
The study also uncovered differences in emotional response.
Those who viewed porn infrequently displayed a broader range of emotions while watching—including fear, surprise and even discomfort.
In contrast, frequent viewers had notably flatter emotional reactions, suggesting that repeated exposure could blunt emotional sensitivity.
This effect isn’t just theoretical. High-frequency users also reported elevated levels of anxiety and depression, echoing previous research that links excessive porn use with emotional distress.
It’s not yet certain whether pornography causes these symptoms or simply co-occurs with them, but the association is significant.
Addiction, relationships and seeking help
The similarities between pornography addiction and substance addiction are becoming more apparent.
Brain imaging of heavy users revealed increased connectivity in regions associated with impulse control and emotional regulation—hallmarks of addiction.
A separate global study released in May 2024 found that around three per cent of adults exhibited what researchers termed ‘problematic pornography use’.
This level of use was significant enough to affect relationships and work performance. Yet, fewer than one per cent of those affected had sought professional help.
As psychologist Dr Beáta Bőthe from the University of Montreal noted: ‘While many are struggling, not many seek help. That’s important because it suggests that more work needs to be done to understand and support those who are affected by it.’
Let’s start the conversation
We understand this is a sensitive subject, but it’s one that needs open and respectful discussion. There’s no shame in asking questions or seeking support.
Have you experienced shifts in focus, emotions or personal connections that you think may be linked to your digital habits?
Do you believe society should be more open in discussing the potential impacts of pornography consumption?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments—your voice matters, and your experience could help others feel less alone.
Also read: One in three Australian men report using intimate partner violence, study reveals
