Help and Advice

What can I do if I think I have a problem with Internet pornography?

First, it is important to realise that there might be a problem. It is helpful to remember how pornography might be affecting your relationships. You may not realise that the drip, drip effect of regularly accessing pornography can have a number of consequences.

Pornography:

- distorts reality

- leads to being unsatisfied by real life partners

- devalues sex

- can promote sexual violence towards women

We at CARE really want to provide as much information and support resources as possible and hope what follows will help you and your family.

You may find it helpful to go through the self-test below:

1. Do you regularly spend time looking for sexual stimulation on the Internet (pornography, sexual/romantic chat rooms, etc)?

2. Have you tried to stop your involvement with Internet pornography, but have been unable?

3. Does your involvement with Internet sex interfere with your physical well-being (eg being tired from staying up late viewing Internet pornography)?

4. Do you hide your involvement with cybersex from your spouse or others close to you?

5. Are you preoccupied during the day with sexual fantasising based on images or experiences you have had on the Internet?

6. Do you try to avoid social engagements, or try to leave such engagements early in order to spend more time involved in Internet sex?

7. Have you logged on to Internet sex sites from your computer, through your mobile phone, PDA, smartphone or other handheld device?

8. Have you felt shame or depression following involvement with cybersex?

9. Do you feel guilty in the sight of God because of your involvement with Internet pornography?

10. Are you less involved with your spouse or close friends because of your involvement with cybersex?

11. Have you lied to/sought to cover up from your spouse or others about your use of Internet pornography?

12. Have your family or friends complained about the amount of time you spend online?

13. Do you frequently become angry and irritable when asked by family or friends to decrease your involvement with the Internet?

Interpretation

‘Yes’ on 1-4 questions indicates you may have a problem. More than 3 positive answers indicates you may have a more serious problem. Refer to the list of ‘Ten things you can do in our Help and Advice Pdf. (See below)

(Adapted and Used with the Permission of Prodigals International)

For more Information and advice for church leaders, mentors and wives download our Help and Advice document.