Porn, morality and meaninglessness: experiences of therapists who meet men seeking treatment for problematic porn use

The aim of this study is to examine therapists’ experiences of treating problematic porn use in Sweden. Eight therapists working with the target group were interviewed. The empirical material was analysed using social constructivist theories, such as Hacking’s looping theory, and theories about sexuality and masculinity. The study concludes that the therapists describe three target groups: one with actual porn overconsumption, one experiencing moral incongruity, and one using porn to cope with meaninglessness in life. The therapists said that they need to address the fact that the men’s views on sexuality and the narrative surrounding problem descriptions sometimes differ markedly from their own knowledge and values. They state that using the term “porn addict” can reinforce a negative view of sexuality, and together with masculinity norms, can also reinforce feelings of loss of control. Themes that are important in the treatment of the target group include guilt and shame, psychoeducation, normalization, relational aspects, control and agency. The therapists’ experiences reveal other narratives surrounding men and porn consumption than those usually reported, such as concerns about not being a “good man,” shame, loneliness and stigma. The therapists also describe their difficulties in having constructive discussions with other professionals about pornography.