Use of Pornography
According to recent studies, the increasing consumption of Internet pornography, mainly in the male population, can be linked to compulsive sexual behavior. Some findings suggest that Internet pornography consumption might represent a defense mechanism against excessive stress, helping to cope with stressful events, regulate mood, and decrease depression and anxiety.
However, users often report that self-exposure to pornographic material can create feelings of guilt and internal conflict, suggesting that psychosocial stress and possibly traumatic experiences may play a significant role in Internet pornography addiction. Stressful experiences, anxiety, and depression are strongly related to pornography consumption, and conflicting emotional experiences as well as identity problems can significantly increase vulnerability to addictive sexual behavior.
One study found roughly 11% of men and 3% of women reported agreeing with the statement "I am addicted to pornography."