Can you really be addicted to pornography?

NZ Herald 7 March 2016
Family First Comment: Yes, of course. Everyone knows that – especially the porn industry!!
“In my practice as a clinical psychologist specialising in addiction, I see people for a range of substance problems. The most common non-substance behaviour that people seek my assistance with is pornography addiction, with many clients frequently using this term when first making contact.”
The recent public statements by athlete Nick Willis about overcoming an addiction to pornography have received a lot of attention.
One question that is being asked is what actually is pornography addiction? In particular, many people may wonder if this really is an addiction, how common is it and how does it relate to “normal” pornography use.
Firstly, the official manual of the American Psychiatric Association – which is also used in New Zealand – does not recognise pornography addiction. Gambling is the only behavioural addiction to receive official sanction for that organisation.
In my practice as a clinical psychologist specialising in addiction, I see people for a range of substance problems. The most common non-substance behaviour that people seek my assistance with is pornography addiction, with many clients frequently using this term when first making contact.
When I assess a person, it is important to keep an open mind about what is occurring for them. However I have consistently found that these men (and they have all been men) describe problems with compulsive pornography use that closely mirrors most of the symptoms of substance addiction.
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