Is the Link Between Pornography Use and Relational Happiness Really More About Masturbation? Results From Two National Surveys

Bibliographic Data

ID10209796
AuthorsL Perry (0000-0002-6398-636X, University of Oklahoma, corresponding author)
Year2019
Volume57
Issue1
Pages64-76
Publication date2019-01-11
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueThe Journal of Sex Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0022-4499 • E-ISSN: 1559-8519
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/00224499.2018.1556772
PMID30633584
OpenAlexW2908802202
LanguageEN
Citations received36
References cited57

Numerous studies have observed a persistent and most often negative association between pornography use and romantic relationship quality. While various theories have been suggested to explain this association, studies have yet to empirically examine whether the observed link between pornography consumption and relationship outcomes has more to do with solo masturbation than actually watching pornography. The current study drew on two nationally representative data sets with nearly identical measures to test whether taking masturbation practice into account reduces or nullifies the association between pornography use and relational happiness. Controls are included for sex frequency and satisfaction, depressive symptoms, and other relevant correlates. Results from both the 2012 New Family Structures Study (NFSS; N = 1,977) and the 2014 Relationships in America survey (RIA; N g = 10,106) show that masturbation is negatively associated with relational happiness for men and women, while pornography use is either unassociated or becomes unassociated with relational happiness once masturbation is included. Indeed, evidence points to a slight positive association between pornography use and relational happiness once masturbation and gender differences are accounted for. Findings suggest that future studies on this topic should include measures of masturbation practice along with pornography use and that modifications to theories connecting pornography use to relationship outcomes should be considered

Association (psychology · Developmental psychology · Happiness · Pornography · Gender, Feminism, and Media · Marriage and Sexual Relationships · Psychology · Sexuality, Behavior, and Technology · Social Psychology

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