Pornography addiction is a type of behavioural addiction that affects the brain in the same way as drugs, whereby a person becomes dependent on this visual material to feel pleasure or to escape reality. This type of addiction can lead to impaired concentration, a reduction in natural sexual desire, and a decline in occupational and social functioning.
In marital relationships, pornography addiction negatively affects emotional and intimate communication, and may lead to trust issues and emotional detachment between spouses, which in turn has a negative impact on the mental health of both partners.
Treatment for this type of addiction often requires specialist psychological intervention, including cognitive behavioural therapy, group support and, where necessary, medication.