Adrian-Constantin TUDORACHE
ABSTRACT :
The development of digital technologies and the increased accessibility of explicit sexual content online have made pornography a highly prevalent phenomenon among adolescents and young adults. In recent years, research has increasingly investigated the neurobiological, psychological, and relational implications of pornography consumption, with focus on neuroplasticity mechanisms and the impact on the quality of life. Objective: To critically analyze the available scientific evidence regarding the relationship between pornography consumption, neuroplastic changes associated with the reward system, and the emergence of relational, emotional, and sexual dysfunctions in young adults. Materials and methods: A narrative review of recent literature in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and public health was conducted, including neuroimaging studies, systematic reviews, and clinical research on problematic pornography use and compulsive sexual behavior. Results and discussion: The available evidence suggests that repeated exposure to pornographic material may be associated with changes in the brain circuits involved in reward processing, motivation, inhibitory control, and emotional regulation. Mechanisms consistent with sensitization, desensitization, and neuroplastic consolidation of compulsive sexual behaviors have been reported. At psychosocial level, problematic pornography use is associated with anxiety, depressive symptoms, difficulties with emotional regulation, sexual and relational dissatisfaction, as well as the development of unrealistic expectations regarding sexuality and intimate relationships. However, the current literature also highlights the existence of heterogeneous results, suggesting the influence of important individual and contextual factors. Conclusions: Online pornography can be a factor with significant impact on the quality of life of young adults when consumption becomes frequent, compulsive, or used as the primary mechanism for emotional regulation. Understanding this phenomenon requires a multidimensional approach that integrates neurobiological, psychological, and socio-educational perspectives. Rigorous longitudinal studies and evidence-based sex education programs are needed to clarify the mechanisms involved and reduce the negative consequences associated with problematic consumption.