Eur J Contracept Reprod Health Care. 2016 May 24:1-8.
Mattebo M1,2, Tydén T3, Häggström-Nordin E4, Nilsson KW2, Larsson M1.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES:
The aims of this study were to describe patterns of pornography consumption, investigate differences between consumers and non-consumers of pornography regarding sexual experiences, health and lifestyle and determine associations between pornography consumption and sexual experiences, health and lifestyle among adolescent girls. The hypotheses were that adolescent girls categorised as pornography consumers would report sexual experiences to a greater extent, and a riskier lifestyle and poorer health, compared with non-consumers.
METHODS:
A classroom survey was conducted among 16-year-old girls (N = 393).
RESULTS:
One-third (30%) consumed pornography.
- In this group, almost half (43%) had fantasies about trying to copy sexual acts seen in pornography and 39% had tried to copy sexual activities seen in pornography.
- A higher proportion of pornography-consuming girls reported sexual experiences compared with peers.
- A third (30%) reported experience of anal sex compared with 15% among non-consuming peers (p = 0.001).
- Furthermore, peer-relationship problems (17% vs 9%; p = 0.015), use of alcohol (85% vs 69%; p = 0.001) and daily smoking (27% vs 14%; p = 0.002) were reported to a greater extent than in non-consuming peers.
- Pornography consumption, use of alcohol and daily smoking were associated with experience of casual sex.
CONCLUSIONS:
Pornography-consuming girls reported sexual experiences and a risky lifestyle to a greater extent compared with non-consuming girls. This indicates that pornography consumption may influence sexualisation and lifestyle. This is important to acknowledge when designing and implementing sexual health programmes for adolescents.
KEYWORDS:
Adolescent girls; health; lifestyle; pornography; sexuality
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