Three reasons why today's teens are more vurnerable than past generations for developing a pornography addiction

Mental health counselors and psychotherapists are seeing a pattern of increasing numbers of teens and young adults seeking treatment for problems related to pornography addiction and its accompanying behaviors.   This pattern suggests a need for further analysis as to why this is occurring and what the long-term ramifications of this may be.  Studies already suggest that most adults struggling with sexual addiction first developed the addiction during adolescence.  Does this pattern predict an epidemic of future sexual addiction as these teens move into adulthood?

The Youth Pornography Addiction Center was founded in 2010 and has been studying this trend and providing treatment to teens and young adults in this area since that time.  Based on its experience, listed below are three reasons why this trend is occurring:

1.Access—Pornography has always been available, but until the age of the internet, had to be accessed in magazines, video tapes and often required entry into adult books stores and was difficult for teens to obtain.  Never before has sexually explicit material been so readily available and easily accessed.   A majority of teens and young adults have laptops, smart phones, I-pads and are constantly connected to the internet.  In a matter of seconds and virtually anywhere, pornography can viewed.  Internet porn is the medium by which most youth view pornography and most of it free of charge and without accountability for age of the viewer.

2.Potency of today’s Porn—There is a drastic difference between today’s online porn and the porn of just a few decades ago. Now, youth can go to countless websites and find more free porn than they could ever find the time to watch….all in high definition video. They can even pick their favorite template, hair color, sexual activity, and just watch video after video of it. It’s all free, easy to access, available within seconds, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can be viewed on phones at any age.  Addicted teens find themselves driven to view more and more pornography and becoming more and more secretive and deceitful in their efforts to do so.  It is true that erotic photos and videos have been around a long time, but the dopamine arousal from turning the pages of a Playboy magazine can’t hold a candle to the steady stream of ever changing erotic stimulation that is so easily obtained from searching for and viewing online porn. This is why online erotica can create such powerful addictions in teens.  Today’s porn doesn’t satisfy teens’ needs; it distorts them. Teens are particularly vulnerable as the strength of the dopamine high is likely the strongest, most euphoric sensation they have ever experienced in their young lives. Skeptics need to understand this “high” rivals anything that could be achieved with drugs.

3.Diminished authentic relationships—The rising generation has been using technology on a daily basis for their entire lives and it is interfering with their ability to connect with others in a face to face and intimate manner.   Many teens text far more than they talk.  Some send more than 1000 texts a day.  Many teens spend hours and hours playing video games and interacting with “virtual friends” on Facebook while sitting at home alone and isolated from “real friends”.   Intimacy and connectedness can not occur in virtually or in cyberspace.  The National Longitudinal Study on Adolescent Health, which surveyed more than 12,000 high school students throughout the country, has noted that feelings of “connectedness” (feeling close to people at school, fairly treated by teachers, and loved and wanted at home) helped significantly to lower an individual’s likelihood of emotional distress, early sexual activity, substance abuse, violence, and suicide.  Another recent study found in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine has suggested that the more screen (computer, video game, cell phone) exposure teenagers get, the more detached they are from those round them.  There appears to be a relationship between adolescent screen time and the diminished social involvement with parents and peers.  Sexual addiction experts suggest that among the core issues driving the addiction is the lack of intimacy and fear of connectedness.

Mending The Armor is an outpatient treatment program that has been specifically designed to provide LDS youth and young adults with a formal approach for learning to manage and overcome an addiction to pornography and other unwanted sexual behaviors.  This program is currently being offered in eighteen locations in the United States and Canada.  See the Locations page on the website to find an office near you.  If you are therapist interested in providing this service in your office, see the Become A Provider page for information on how to join the Mending The Armor network

Celebrating Success

Celebrating Success

The brave youth and young adults who choose to participate in our program truly are among the great and noble ones.   It takes a tremendous amount of courage for these young men to admit to a pornography addiction and to ask for help.  They are motivated by a testimony of the gospel and a strong desire to overcome their addiction.  Most experience the ups and downs in their battle to achieve recovery and face strong adversity and temptation to give up and stop trying.  In their efforts to conquer the addiction, they develop character and integrity and in time, develop the skills to achieve a recovery.

We recently celebrated the success of one of our youth achieving the one year mark for recovery.  This was a great day as this young man had struggled with pornography addiction since he was eleven years-old.  His reaching the year mark was an exciting milestone. 

We also recently celebrated another one of our young adults receiving a mission call.  This was a wonderful moment for him as he has worked so diligently to overcome his addiction.  His becoming worthy to serve a mission and receiving a mission call was an inspiration and motivator to other group members who are striving to overcome the addiction. 

These two successes are testaments to the Mending The Armor group pledge:

“In our battle, we form a brotherhood. Together, we strengthen and support each other as we work toward our goal of becoming men of integrity, worthy husbands and righteous fathers.”

The “Slippery Slope”—Helping LDS Youth in Treatment Avoid Relapse into Porn

Compulsive Use of pornography with or without masturbation often leads to pushing boundaries and morality violations including sexting, misuse of social networks and improper on-line conduct.

In  young adulthood the continued use of compulsive pornography can eventually lead to anonymous sex (met online, in sex clubs etc.), frequenting adult bookstores and strip clubs, prostitutes and massage parlors, multiple affairs, GPS smartphone hook-ups and a multitude of other dangerous sexual behaviors.

For those struggling with pornography addiction, the concept of the “slippery slope” is a familiar one.  Some refer to it as “the bubble” or “the trance”.  These terms refer to the mindset and physical symptoms that accompany the fixation and drive for a sexual experience.   In this trance like state fixated on sexual arousal, the physical symptoms include Increased heart rate, dilated pupils, shallow breathing, sweating,  a “rush” or “euphoric” feeling and the most destructive a Reduced Capacity for Intellectual Functioning.

Once a young person finds themselves in this condition it becomes very difficult to not act out sexually in one form or another.  Teens and young adults involved in treatment for pornography addiction learn to recognize when they are entering the “slippery slope” or “the bubble”.  As part of their recovery plan, they formulate a strategy for avoiding this state by reaching out to others.  Often, those they connect with are members of their treatment groups who are at a more advanced stage of recovery from pornography addiction.

When a young person recognizes the signs of the “slippery slope” they train themselves to immediately text or call a support person.  This act of reaching out to others disrupts the pattern and allows the young person to share thoughts and feelings with another person rather than remaining on the slippery slope and dealing with emotional discomfort through acting out sexually.

Group therapy for teens and young adults is an important part of the treatment process because it creates a support system.  It allows young people to support and strengthen one another in their efforts to overcome the addiction.

Early Intervention for Pornography Addiction—The Best Approach for Preventing Sexual Addiction

Renown psychologist and leader in the field of sexual addiction research and treatment Dr. Victor Cline concluded after many years of working with sexual addicts that “most sexual and pornography addictions begin in middle childhood or early adolescence.”

In recent years, treatment for adults struggling with sexual addiction has gained increased attention and focus from therapists.  However, little has been done relating to treatment services specific to youth.  It is certain that pornography is the gateway to sexual addiction.  It only then makes sense that the most effective way to prevent sexual addiction is to provide intervention to youth who are developing a pornography addiction.

In the LDS church, many young men struggling with pornography addiction do not seek help until they are in active preparation for serving a mission.  In some cases, these young men don’t participate in treatment; they simply use willpower to abstain from viewing pornography.  Unfortunately, many fall back into the addiction upon returning home from their missions.

Due to the onslaught of pornography on the internet and the ease of access, more and more children and teens are being exposed to pornography at a young age.  Pornography addiction can develop at a young age, and left untreated, can result in sexual addiction as an adult.  Recent studies and statistics shed light on just how big of a problem youth

pornography addiction is becoming:

93 % of boys and 62% of girls are exposed to internet pornography before the age of 18.

70% of boys have spent at least 30 consecutive minutes looking at on-line porn on at least one occasion.

35% of boys have done this on at least ten occasions.

 83% of boys have seen group sex on the internet.

67% of children admit to clearing their internet history to hide their online activity.

79% of accidental exposures to internet porn among kids take place in the home.

The average age a child first sees internet pornography is 11.

 70% of young men ages 18-24 visit pornographic websites on at least a monthly basis.

 
Mending The Armor is an outpatient treatment program that has been specifically designed to provide LDS youth and young adults with a formal approach for learning to manage and overcome an addiction to pornography and other unwanted sexual behaviors.  This program is currently being offered in twelve locations in the United States and Canada.  See the Locations for page on the website to find an office near you.  If you are therapist interested in providing this service in your office, see the Become A Provider page for information on how to join the Mending The Armor network.

Pornography Addiction Treatment for Teens and Young Adults Now Available in Salt Lake and Utah Counties

​Aspen Counseling Services based in Lehi, Utah with offices at Thanksgiving Point has joined the Mending The Armor network and will be providing the Mending the Armor and Star Guides programs in the Southern Salt Lake County and Northern Utah County areas.  Communities served by Aspen Counseling Services include Cottonwood Heights, Murray, South Jordan, Draper, Sandy, Riverton, Herriman, Lehi, American Fork, Highland, Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Pleasant Grove, Lindon, Orem and Provo.

Aspen Counseling Services features a staff of talented therapists who specialize in working with youth and young adults.  Led by clinical director Kristina Holley, LCSW, staff therapists include: Brian Cherry,LPC, Tim McOmber, APC, Nancy Belliston, LCSW, Joseph Allred, APC, Matthew Rutherford, LPC, and Candice Packer, LCSW.

Youth and young adults in Salt Lake and Utah counties struggling with pornography addiction can now access help and treatment with Aspen Counseling Services.  The office is located at 2940 West Maple Loop Drive Suite L01 Lehi, UT 84046.  The phone number is 801-449-0017.   The website is www.aspencounselingservices.com .

Workbook for LDS Young Adults now available!

Mending The Armor has released a new version of the Breaking Free workbook that has been tailored to LDS young adults.  This workbook is now available at all Mending The Armor office locations.  This workbook is the text used in the Mending The Armor for Young Adults program.

This workbook is ideal for pre and post mission young men who are striving to conquer pornography addiction and other sexual behaviors.  The workbook covers the same concepts that are found in the original Breaking Free workbook for youth, but has a stronger focus on Twelve Step principles and also highlights the devastating impact of pornography addiction on marital relationships.  The underpinnings of the treatment highlight the necessity that young adults move into the Intimacy vs. Isolation stage of social development free from pornography and sexual addiction.  The workbook also strongly encourages that young adults complete this program and then transition into the LDS Twelve Step program for longer-term support.

Teen Pornography Addiction Treatment now available in Logan, Utah

Mending The Armor is pleased to announce that the program is now available in Logan, Utah and the surrounding areas including: Richmond, Smithfield, Hyde Park, North Logan, Mendon, Providence, River Heights, Millville, Nibley, Hyrum, Wellsville, Paradise, Garden City Austin Wood, LMFT has joined the network and is providing this service in his office in Logan.  Austin received his master’s degree from the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Utah State University in 2002.  He also has a B.S. in Family and Human Development with a minor in Family Finance.  Austin has worked in a variety of helping services including providing individual therapy and marriage counseling along with group therapy at LDS Family Services.   He and his wife worked as Shelter Managers for CAPSA gaining insight into domestic violence issues.  He has been a therapist and program manager for a residential treatment facility providing therapy for troubled adolescents and their families. His presentations on pornography and its impact on relationships, along with counseling individuals who struggle with sex addiction, has allowed Austin valuable experience in helping individuals overcome this destructive habit.  Austin has a non-judgemental approach and a listening ear.  These attributes, combined with his 10+ years experience, qualify Austin to work with you as your Marriage and Family Therapist.

een Pornography Addiction Treatment now available in San Diego, California and Seattle, Washington.

Mending The Armor is now available in San Diego, California and Seattle, Washington!  We are excited to announce the addition of two new locations to the network and two highly skilled clinicians.

Cindi Christiansen , LMFT has joined the network and is a provider in San Diego.  Cindi has worked in the mental health arena for the last 16 years, with the last 8 years being involved with crisis intervention in the dually diagnosed community.  She has worked extensively with substance abuse, addictions (specifically pornography and sex addictions) and mood disorders.  She also has worked in the areas of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and personality disorders.   Her private practice is currently taking appointments for Thursday, Friday and Saturdays, and has evening appointments available.   She has worked extensively with adolescents and children.  Her practice accepts most major insurances, credit cards and she works on a sliding scale with my cash clients.  In addition to being licensed as a Marriage Family Therapist, she is also a fifth year doctoral student in Clinical Psychology.  She comes to the profession with a wealth of life experience, having successfully raised four children nearly all on her own as a working single mother.

Dave Perry, LMHC has joined the network as a provider in the greater Seattle area.  Dave earned a Bachelor Degree from BYU and a Master Degree in Counseling Psychology from City College of Seattle.  Prior to becoming a therapist, Dave was a successful businessman.  Dave has expertise in sexual addiction, depression, anxiety and marital counseling.  He is married to his high school sweetheart and together they have five children and nine grandchildren.

These programs are available to youth and families in the following areas:

Utah:

 St. George, Hurricane, Santa Clara, Ivins, LaVerkin, Toquerville, Virgin, New Harmony h, Springdale, Washington Utah, Hildale, Leeds, Mesquite Nevada, Colorado City Arizona, Beaver, Minersville, Milford , Garfield County

California:

Valencia, Newhall, Santa Clarita, Castaic, Northridge, San Fernando, Mission Hills, Granada Hills California, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Westlake Village, Case Conejo, Oak Park, Agoura Hills, Camarillo, Calabasas, Malibu, Oxnard, Ventura, Moorpark, Chatsworth, Santa Monica, Chula Vista, El Cajon, La Jolla, Lemon Grove, Paradise Hills, National City, Santee, Spring Valley, Sierra Mesa, Del Cerro, San Carlos, Scripps Ranch, Mira Mesa, Torrey Pines,  Encanto, North Park, Poway, San Diego

Washington:

Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Renton,  Federal Way, Tacoma, Lakewood, Lacey, Olympia, Everett, Lynnwood, Kent, Woodinville, Shoreline, Shorewood, Puyallup, South Hill, Kirkland, Ballard, Issaquah, Northbend, Snoqualmie, Sammamish.

 

The pillars of a successful recovery for teen pornography addiction

A strong recovery plan is vital for teens striving to conquer pornography addiction. Because of the support and accountability provided by the treatment, many youth are able to keep their addiction in check during the time they are in treatment. The difficulty lies in the months and years following completion of treatment. One of the most important parts of the treatment process is the creation of a viable recovery plan.

Youth in the program are asked to consider the example of a building being able to endure and withstand the elements over time needs to be built with a strong support system. Many buildings are designed with pillars that bear the weight of the main structure of the building. These pillars have to be strong and firm. If one or more of the pillars is flawed or weak, then the building will not stand, but will eventually crumble. The four pillars that make up a successful recovery plan for teen pornography addiction are: Support, Success, Accountability and Insight. Youth are taught that in order remain abstinent from sexual addictions in the future, they need to develop these four pillars in their lives.

Significant time in the treatment process is spent assisting teens in building each of these four pillars. Youth in the program successfully complete treatment only when they have been able to put together a recovery plan that includes each of the four pillars.  Youth then complete their treatment with a formal, structured plan for their recovery which can guide them well beyond their time in the program.

Treating Pornography Addiction among Teens–Preventing a lifetime of future problems

In the field of substance abuse treatment, marijuana is often referred to as the “gateway” drug as many who become addicted to harder drugs first started with using marijuana as teens and then progressed into more illicit substances.

In the same way, pornography is the “gateway” to a multitude of relationship and sexual behavior problems that can destroy the promise of bright futures for youth.  Men who are addicted to pornography are not able to effectively function as husbands and fathers.  Without healthy husbands and fathers, our society will not thrive.  Our future hinges on young men who can become healthy, functioning husbands and fathers.  We need youth who can become men of integrity.

Helping young people learn to manage and overcome addiction to pornography is among the most important work in the field of youth treatment today.  In this work, we are helping to form youth who can become quality husbands and fathers who are free from sexual addiction.

Too many youth become addicted to pornography and carry this problem into adulthood where is prevents the formation of healthy relationships and often leads to infidelity, divorce, emotional problems and legal issues.  The key is to preventing this all too often occurrence is to catch it early.

We are looking for therapists who want to make a difference.  See the video on the benefits of becoming a provider!

Join Our Network-Become A Provider!