Associations Between Pornography Use and Sexual Dynamics Among Heterosexual Couples

Abstract

BackgroundWhile links between pornography use and couple relational well-being have been the subject of multiple research studies, less attention has been paid to the associations between pornography use and specific sexual behavior within the relationship. AimThis study aimed to explore associations between each partner's pornography use, sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, and intercourse/non-intercourse sexual behavior. The confounding and moderating role of religiosity was also explored. MethodsA dyadic sample of 240 heterosexual couples was used. Measurement assessed pornography use, sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, and sexual behavior. OutcomesSexual satisfaction as well as intercourse and non-intercourse sexual behaviors were examined. ResultsResults suggested consistent gendered differences where female pornography use was directly associated with higher reports of female sexual desire, whereas male pornography use was directly associated with more male but less female partner desire and lower overall male sexual satisfaction. Male pornography use was also indirectly associated with sexual satisfaction for both partners and non-intercourse behaviors within the relationship through sexual desire. Overall, religiosity had little impact on the results of the study. Clinical TranslationThe complex associations between pornography use, sexual desire, and sexual behaviors suggested by our results highlight the importance of comprehensive and systemic assessment and education around sexuality when working with individuals and couples. Strengths & LimitationsThe main strength of this study is the use of dyadic data. The main limitation is the cross-sectional nature of the data ConclusionThe associations between pornography use and a variety of outcomes are highly nuanced. This study provides an important step forward in more fully accounting for the complications of pornography use in a relationship.Willoughby BJ, Leonhardt ND, Augustus RA. Associations Between Pornography Use and Sexual Dynamics Among Heterosexual Couples. J Sex Med 2021;18:179–192.