Problematic Pornography Use, Mental Health, and Suicidality among Young Adults

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Mental Health
• Sociology

Background:

• The link between problematic pornography use (PPU) and suicidality is unclear, with existing research yielding contradictory findings.
• Young adults represent a key demographic for investigating this relationship due to potential developmental and social factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the associations between problematic pornography use (PPU) and suicidality in young adults.
• To examine the influence of gender, loneliness, emotional states, and well-being on this relationship.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous online survey was administered to 332 university students (60% female, mean age 23).
• Data were collected between March 2023 and May 2023.
• Statistical analyses included correlation and multiple regression.

Main Results:

• Problematic pornography use (PPU) was associated with higher anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness, and suicidal ideation, and lower life satisfaction.
• Men reported higher PPU and loneliness; women reported higher stress, anxiety, and life satisfaction.
• Significant correlations between PPU and suicidal ideation/plans were found in women, despite lower PPU scores.

Conclusions:

• Problematic pornography use (PPU) is a significant predictor of suicidal ideation, with a notable interaction effect with gender.
• Young women may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of sexually explicit material exposure on suicidality, with loneliness playing a crucial role.
• Further research is needed to understand gender-specific pathways linking PPU and suicidal ideation.