Displacing Problems: A Constructivist Grounded Theory of Problematic Pornography Use

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Pornography use is not inherently harmful, yet many individuals perceive their use as problematic.
• Existing research on problematic pornography use (PPU) often focuses on terminology rather than practical application.
• There is a need for theoretical development to understand the dynamics of PPU.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a theoretical understanding of how problematic pornography use (PPU) develops and is maintained.
• To explore the subjective experiences of individuals who self-report PPU.
• To identify the core processes underlying the maintenance of PPU.

Main Methods:

• A constructivist grounded theory approach was employed.
• Data were collected from 258 self-reported PPU journals and 21 semi-structured interviews.
• Participants were recruited from online sources and self-identified as having PPU.

Main Results:

• Participants had distinct pre-existing problems before engaging in PPU.
• Pornography use evolved from enjoyment to habitual use, instrumental use, or emotional regulation.
• Individuals adopted an "addiction narrative" after seeking information, leading to the displacement of original problems by the perceived addiction.

Conclusions:

• The core category identified is "displacement," where individuals' pre-existing issues are reframed as consequences of PPU.
• This displacement process leads to a "mission" to overcome addiction, overshadowing underlying problems.
• The findings offer a novel theoretical framework for PPU with implications for research and clinical practice.