People who use pornography are aware that there is sexual violence as one of its themes. However, what most don’t realize, is that it is more prevalent than we know. The basic plotline of many pornographic videos is the man asserting his dominance over the woman and taking what he wants while she submits to his control. In an article by Fight the New Drug, a team of researchers found that of the “most popular porn scenes, 88.2% had some form of physical violence or aggression, while 48.7% had verbal aggression.” (FighttheNewDrug).
Women are almost always the target of violence in pornography. From seeing the men as dominant to the use of derogatory names against women, most pornography gives us a picture that the woman must do what the man wants no matter how he treats her. Another study found that with this violence, 95% of the victims come across as neutral or respond with a form of pleasure. The message sent is that sexual violence is part of good sex (FighttheNewDrug).
As consumers watch scene after scene of sexual violence, it can start to feel normal. This distorts their perception of reality and what is deemed as ok in a romantic relationship. The truth is that unless they discussed with their romantic partner about violence being a part of their relationship, it is never a form of love and respect. Ted Bundy, the infamous serial killer, said in an interview with LA Times, “that his early exposure to pornography, specifically hard-core, had a “crystallized effort” on his violent tendencies and the acting out on his fantasies” (LATimes, 1989).
While not all people who view pornography that depicts sexual violence will become serial killers, it has been observed that there is a link between serial killers and sexual violent pornography. In another article on CBN, Bundy stated in his interview to Dr. James Dobson, “I've lived in prison a long time now. I've met a lot of men who were motivated to commit violence just like me. And without exception, every one of them was deeply involved in pornography. Without question, without exception, deeply influenced and consumed by addiction to pornography." (CBN, 2018)
It’s important that we recognize the influence that porn plays in normalizing sexual violence. When we say no to porn, we are building a healthier world. For those who are struggling with any kind of pornography addiction, check out Fight the New Drug or Fortify websites, shown below. Recovery is possible for anyone.
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