Pornography and Public Health

Pornography has been declared a public health crisis by many states, but research reveals a complicated story behind the narrative of abuse. Pornography and Public Health explores the positive and negative effects of pornography on public health, providing a holistic overview of the people who view it, how content has changed over time, and the benefits that porn and porn literacy can provide in some contexts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Pornography, often referred to as sexually explicit material designed to elicit sexual arousal, has been widely acknowledged as a mounting public health concern. Numerous states have passed resolutions declaring pornography a detriment to individual and collective health, citing its contribution to the prevalence of sexual assault, human trafficking, and compulsive use. However, a deeper exploration of the impact of pornography reveals a complex narrative that goes beyond the simplistic portrayal of abuse. This book, titled Pornography and Public Health, employs a rigorous evidence-based approach to examine the multifaceted effects of pornography on public health. It delves into the origins of pornography's classification as a public health crisis, despite lacking explicit governmental support in the United States. While the content of pornography encompasses a wide range of variations, this book offers a comprehensive overview of the individuals who consume pornography, the types of content they are most likely to encounter, the evolution of content over time, and the potential influences these changes may have on certain users.

Each chapter in the book explores various controversies surrounding significant subtopics within the field of pornography scholarship, including aggression, body image, and problematic use. It also acknowledges the potential benefits that porn and porn literacy can offer in certain contexts. By drawing on extensive research and meticulous analysis of the available data, Emily F. Rothman explores the implications of existing evidence for practice and policy. The book provides valuable guidance for public health scholars interested in understanding and addressing one of the most intricate and challenging issues in health and human behavior of our time.

In contrast to moralizing approaches, Pornography and Public Health avoids making judgments and advocates for proactive measures to minimize potential harms associated with pornography. It emphasizes the importance of approaching the topic with an open mind, recognizing the diversity of perspectives and experiences within the pornographic industry and the potential for harm reduction strategies to be implemented effectively.

Overall, Pornography and Public Health serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and individuals seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between pornography and public health. By presenting a comprehensive and evidence-based analysis, the book contributes to the ongoing dialogue and efforts to address this pressing issue in our society.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 162 x 244 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190075477