I did research, through the internet, of some of the red flags to watch concerning porn and masturbation. Ideally, red flags are supposed to mean warnings, and therefore the earlier you can detect the problem, the faster the healing process. I concluded that even when it seems like tracing this problem is key to finding its solution, the greatest challenge is in disclosure. Often, pornography and masturbation addicts(and beginners too) tend to develop defense mechanisms, antisocial tendencies, calculated cover-ups (deleting search history and texts), and emotional detachments as a way to hide their continued problems. Sexual life is without a doubt private, as private as private can be. However, accountability, transparency, and disclosure are very vital towards regaining self-trust and helping oneself heal from the emotional and social effects of watching porn.

What are the emotional and social effects?

Yes. Studies reveal that for most addicts in a relationship, their views and practices change drastically when either (could be both) of the partners is engaging in sexual activities in secret. I’m labeling porn and masturbation a sexual activity because it’s highly sexual content and satisfaction thereof is similar to what normal sexual activity would feel only that one is virtual, unattainable, and more of “an Elastoplast that covers a gunshot wound”. In light of this, it’s hard to really grasp the full extent of porn and masturbation on an individual but the emotional and social imbalances can be a good indicator of someone struggling with porn and masturbation. 

A disclaimer: NOT ALL THE RESEARCH RESULTS APPLY TO YOUR CASE. SO RELAX. REALLY,RELAX. 

I have written that in caps because I know there’s a possibility one might reflect on a person of interest using the criteria listed below. It’s not fair to them nani😅

Lack of emotional apathy is one cause-effect of watching porn and indulging in pornography. Usually, addicts and consumers of online sexual content have a hard time maintaining meaningful emotional connections with their loved ones. This can be as a result of “substituted romance” with the sexual content viewed online. A lack of emotional apathy is characterized by intense emotional distancing either out of fear of being exposed, or shame of disclosing as well as shame in being aware of the problem in the first place. 

Neglecting duties, responsibilities, and changes in interest- most times, the emotional weight big constantly hiding from the shame and guilt of watching porn and masturbation activities occupies the minds of addicts and first-time consumers. The ricochet is often felt by workmates, or friends, or hobby buddies if there’s anything like that. Self-reflection, self-persuasion, self-torture as well could lead to a generally inactive person. Sometimes it’s not easy to use this as a litmus test for online sexual content consumers because interests warn with age, and responsibilities too. However, there’s a certain detachment that is of an underlying mental health crisis. Oh, religion is also quite ignored or avoided during these phases of self-convictions. Either religion gets a bye or a ” talk to my hand my face is busy” kinda neglect and ignorance.

Incognito behaviors. Increased need to be private is a characteristic most porn and masturbation addicts identify with. Sometimes, it’s the privacy of their phones or the laptop that should never be touched. Or the lonely hours spent either in off-hours of the night or even during the day. Privacy is a catalyst of all manner of positive and negative things. It’s not fair to point out that antisocials are consumers of porn and masturbators but there’s a need for privacy that warrants questions of accountability. 

History is the oldest red flag I’ve ever known😂😂. History repeats itself is one of those quotes that repeat itself when you think of history! In all lightness, a history of being addicted to porn and masturbation should not always be perceived to have a recurring claim on the victim but should be considered for future reasons. It is easy to slide back to the old days, and as such is the reality, it should be noted that history is not always an excuse for current matters, history can as well be a mark of quality. Whenever the waves come, remember how you swam when you slipped on them, remember how you dodged the waves, and remember how you surfed( not the internet). It’s necessary to be on the lookout if you have a history with porn and masturbation cause it may come back to you. 

In all these things I am persuaded Man has power over his emotions, and no matter the size of the struggle, the desire for progress should heal faster than the innate need to be perfect.

In our last coverage of this issue, I’ll talk about myths and misconceptions of consuming online sexual content. I’ll explain as much as I can research 😅. Then combine that with how to deal with it. 

Your Guy,

Dan_King’s💪💪💪