Porn or erotica: which is healthier? I’m quoted in Adolescent Magazine
I was quoted in Adolescent.net by Carla Delgado on my thoughts about porn and erotica, and whether they are helpful or not in your sexual exploration.
My thoughts on this are complex because it really depends, and the choice is ultimately down to you and what helps you.
A lot of Porn can create unrealistic and unhelpful depictions of what is “normal” sex, along with concerns on body image, and how the performers are treated.
But erotica can also depict unrealistic and unhelpful sex too, so it’s crucial that you understand the difference between fantasy and reality.
“I have read some truly terrible stories where it’s obvious the writer has no idea how a woman actually climaxes,” notes Rowett. “Mistaking what happens in a smutty novel or on Pornhub for how sex should be and feel in real life can be unhelpful at best, and harmful at worst.”
“In both porn and erotica, you don’t tend to see the actors or characters getting leg cramps, getting bored, chafing, asking for more lube, falling off the bed, the dog walking in, or having a panic attack,” says Rowett.
However, I do believe ultimately that both porn and erotica can absolutely be benefical to sexual health, as long as you receive pleasure-focused and evidence-based sexuality education too.
“Both erotic novels and pornography can be beneficial to an individual’s sexual health and wellness because they provide a context of pleasurable sexual experiences,” notes Lucy Rowett, clinical sexologist and intimacy coach. “Erotica and porn help you to explore your sexuality, desires, and fantasies for yourself and on your own terms, rather than just for your partner.”
Lucy Rowett, CSC – Pronouns: She/Her/Her