Mental Health
Associations between pornography exposure, body image and sexual body image: A systematic review.
Open Access: Yes.
Abstract
There is evidence for associations between pornography exposure and sexual behaviors of adults and adolescents. Here, we review associations between pornography exposure and body image/sexual body image. Using a systematic search, we found 26 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Compelling evidence shows that frequency of pornography exposure is associated with negatively perceived body image and sexual body image; both heterosexual men and women appear to be affected. Due to scarcity of studies in adolescents and non-heterosexual samples, findings cannot be generalized to adolescents or individuals who identify as sexual minorities. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Relevance
“Overall, there is compelling evidence that exposure to pornography is associated with a negative body image. Whether it was body dissatisfaction, body surveillance, physical self-esteem, drive for muscularity, or related concepts that were used as surrogates for body image, the vast majority of studies…provided evidence for negative associations to pornography consumption.”
Citation
Paslakis, G., Chiclana Actis, C., & Mestre-Bach, G. (2022). Associations between pornography exposure, body image and sexual body image: A systematic review. Journal of health psychology, 27(3), 743–760. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105320967085
