Self-Exploration and Reconstruction: Three Role Contradictions and Pornography Mentality of Chinese College Students

This study explores how Chinese college students navigate self-exploration and role contradictions related to pornography consumption. In a society with traditional norms and limited sex education, pornography serves as a key, though controversial, source of sexual information. Using a phenomenological approach, the study identifies three main conflicts: gender, media, and inter-role conflict. Gender differences in pornography consumption reflect societal expectations, with men showing more acceptance and women experiencing more shame. Media conflict arises from the tension between conservative traditional media and more open new media. Inter-role conflict highlights the psychological stress students face balancing liberal social attitudes with conservative family values. This research provides insights into the complexities of pornography use in China.