Early exposure to porn and its effects; Doctors want teens to join the discussions

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By Chetana Belagere

Feb 22, 2024

Dr Sanjay Prakash J, from AINU Chennai, shares, “We are seeing a generation of young men whose understanding of sex is heavily influenced by what they’ve seen in pornography.”

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Andrologists, psychiatrists, and adolescence counsellors claim early exposure to porn leads to a range of sexual health issues that are only now beginning to be fully understood.

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Sanjay, also added, “This can lead to a range of issues, from performance anxiety to a lack of satisfaction in real-life sexual encounters.”

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“I get several adolescents who are into excessive masturbation, loss of concentration in studies, and intense feeling of guilt,” said Dr Preeti Galgali.

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This mismatch between expectation and reality can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and even lead to the avoidance of sexual intimacy altogether.

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Sanjay said pornography often focuses solely on physical aspects of sex, neglecting the emotional and intimate connections that are vital for healthy relationships.

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“Encouraging comprehensive sex education and potential consequences of pornography can help young men develop a more balanced perspective on sexuality,” he added.

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“Monitoring activities on the internet and seeking professional help, and counselling can provide guidance and support for individuals grappling with this,” he signed off.

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