21:24 Nov 23 2014
Times Read: 1,132
The brain of a person regularly using porn can change and shape itself to resemble neuro-pathways similar to those of an alcoholic or drug addict. Many people addicted to porn try to quit and find using willpower isn't enough.
Porn Magazine Vs Internet Porn...The difference? Simply, porn videos are different mainly because they look more real. Their impact on the brain with its sheer virtual power and intensity creates a heightened level of stimulation that your brain was never intended to experience with porn magazines.
ALL porn is fantasy and it often perpetuates major stereotypes about women and men, and sexuality. It could also be transforming "sexuality" single-handedly, as today it's a #1 profit maker on the Internet. Sex therapist, Patrick Carnes PhD writes in 'Facing the Shadow', "Most sex education now occurs on the web".
Concerns arise around emotional and intellectual development and an understanding of intimacy if regular porn is used. It's seen as contributory factor to sexual difficulties later in life: impaired sexual desire, erectile issues, and confidence issues, just to name a few.
Dopamine: The Feel Good Chemical...Known as the “gotta have it” chemical, dopamine is like the gas that fuels our desire. This neurotransmitter involves anticipation and expectation. When we imagine eating good food, shopping OR having sex, the brain releases dopamine and we say, "I want more!"
Every time a person views porn, or eventually even thinks about it, the burst of dopamine strengthens the connections between brain cells. The stronger the connection becomes, the easier it becomes for cells to communicate on that path.
Someone who doesn’t watch porn, or is not yet addicted, has yet to develop sensitized pathways. But the porn's affect on neuropathways of someone whose brain is addicted have become the path of least resistance. The easier the path, the more likely it's used even when we don’t want to.
It might feel robotic, but one can reboot and restart their brain to "practice intentional thinking" or positive thinking. Redirect your attention and focus on good things, like peace, joy, and self-control. The brain can rewire itself!
We are shaped and fashioned by what we love, and this applies to our brains. The life focus of a person struggling with porn leads their brain towards "tunnel vision". Get out of that tunnel, start a healthy regime with something you have passion for: sports, the arts or nature?
Studies show that repeated behaviors over time cause structural brain changes. These changes can be negative, causing compulsion and addiction, like to porn. Or they can be positive, and help one to rewire the brain so the stimuli of porn and lust are no longer a reflexive reaction.
Speaking of Porn...I'll BRB ^_-
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