Compulsive or Addictive? The Evolving Science of Pornography Use
- Jack Bellamy
- Jan 4
- 2 min read
Recent neuroscientific and psychological research has intensified the debate over whether excessive pornography consumption should be classified as a true “addiction” or a “compulsive sexual behaviour disorder” (CSBD). The World Health Organization (WHO) recently included CSBD in the ICD-11, shifting the focus from the medium (pornography) to the behavioural pattern of impaired control.
From Moral Judgement to Behavioural Insight
This shift reframes the conversation away from labels and towards patterns of behaviour. Rather than asking whether pornography itself is the problem, the emphasis is now on how habits form, how control is lost and how behaviour begins to interfere with goals, relationships and personal values.
What Brain Science Reveals About Habit Formation
Recent fMRI studies have provided a “biological” lens, showing that individuals with high-frequency porn use often exhibit brain activity patterns similar to those with substance use disorders. Specifically, hyper-reactivity in the brain’s reward system, the ventral striatum, is observed when subjects are shown cues related to pornography.
However, researchers emphasise a key distinction: unlike chemical substances, the “high” in porn use is driven by the natural reward of novelty, often referred to as the “Coolidge Effect”, where the brain seeks constant new stimuli to maintain dopamine levels.
Perceived Addiction and the Role of Values
Furthermore, 2024 studies from various international clinics suggest that “perceived addiction”, where individuals feel addicted due to moral or religious conflicts, is a significant factor. In these cases, internal conflict and self-judgement can amplify distress and reduce a sense of agency.
Researchers now argue that meaningful change must address both the neurological habit and the psychological impact of the behaviour. As the digital landscape shifts toward high-speed, immersive content, the scientific consensus is moving toward viewing this not as a moral failing, but as a complex neuro-behavioural challenge that can be reshaped with insight, structure and support.
