What is porn all about? Can you get addicted to porn? Whether you’re totally experienced with porn or a newbie, it’s time to really think about porn and your relationship with it. Is it healthy? Or do you engage with porn ethically?
Maybe you think you know the answer to these questions or you might have absolutely no idea - either way, this page is a good starting point to get learning!
Porn 101 - With Georgia Grace
Georgia Grace is a certified Australian sex coach, working with individuals, couples, and groups in supporting people to have the fulfilling sex lives they want.
WHAT IS PORN
It comes in many shapes, sizes, forms and lengths (just like bodies) but porn is the portrayal of erotic behaviour with the intention of causing sexual arousal.
For many, porn is their first exposure to sexual intimacy. Depending on where and how you’re consuming your pornography this can create an opportunity to see sex and intimacy in all of its messy glory. But there is a lot more to sex than just penetration and mainstream pornography is a production that does not often show effective communication, consent, health and safety.
“Learning how to have sex by watching porn, is like learning how to drive by watching Fast & Furious, it’s a really bad idea” - Jamilla Jamil
View our resources below to learn more about porn addiction.
What are the good parts?
Don't worry, it's not all bad!
Ethical, consensual and mindful porn, can really teach you about sex with a variety of bodies. It can also provide people an opportunity to explore eroticism in a safe and controlled space with themselves or others.
Sex and sexuality is a journey, so be mindful of the tools you pick up along the way, how they might influence your sexual experiences in the future, your relationships and even your interactions with yourself.
What are the bad parts?
Yes, there are a few...
Porn does have its shortcomings, including how it is greatly centred around penetration, the male gaze, heteronormativity and often reinforces racial and gendered stereotypes. There are many ways to have sex and not all of them involve penetration or a buxom blonde. Most porn also usually doesn’t cover anything around consent, boundaries or protection - all key parts of sex.
Remember, porn is ultimately a performance and can create unrealistic expectations about consent, pleasure and intimacy.
Can you watch too much porn?
Concerned about your porn consumption?
If the amount of porn you watch is having an impact on day to day functions, or you're finding yourself looking for more and more extreme depictions of a sexual nature, you may be having issues with porn consumption. Alternatively, if you are having issues with sexual function and arousal as a result of excessive porn consumption, you may consider seeking help from a counsellor or psychologist or even online forums.
Where to get help
Join psychologist Wayne Gillespie as he talks about porn addiction, how to identify it and find the help you need.
Porn Addiction - With Wayne Gillespie
If you would like to start the conversation around healthy porn habits today, organise a counselling session via Mental Health Connect here
Hot Tips for accessing ethical porn
Want to know if the porn you're consuming is problematic? Here are some hot tips to help you navigate the erotic while maintaining your morality.
Hot tips to ensure your spicy content is ethically made:
- Verbal and physical consent is ongoing
- Real sex and pleasure is portrayed
- Communication is present and inclusive
- Research the film-maker
- Performers and film-makers are paid fairly
- There is diversity within the cast
- Safe work environment
- Created for all viewers, beyond the male gaze