Pornography in Relationships? We can help

Couples can have very different views when it comes to pornography. Some use it together to enhance their sexual relationship and see it as a positive part of their intimacy. Others prefer to avoid it entirely, feeling it has no place in a committed relationship.

Then there’s a third group – where one partner is comfortable with it, and the other is not. This mismatch in values or expectations can cause tension, misunderstandings, or even feelings of betrayal, especially if the use of pornography is kept secret.

Like any other issue in a relationship, what matters most is how it’s talked about. Whether it’s causing arguments, emotional distance, or simply feels like an awkward topic to raise, working through it together with a therapist can help you better understand each other’s views and find a way forward.

What If Only One Partner Watches Porn?

What does solo sexual gratification mean for the relationship? Should it be seen as a threat, or is it something a partner should simply accept as ‘normal’? And what happens when one partner becomes hooked on pornography?

We work with many couples who are struggling because one partner has become overly reliant on internet sex or is showing signs of porn addiction. These situations often leave the other partner feeling confused, hurt, or unsure of how to respond

Far too many couples don’t know how to talk about pornography openly – let alone how to manage its impact on their relationship. Therapy can help both partners explore how they feel about porn use, what it means for their emotional and sexual connection, and whether it’s becoming a barrier to intimacy

 

The Impact of Pornography

Are You Struggling with Porn Use?

Do you find yourself being secretive about your online activity? Are you spending more time alone online or struggling with compulsive sexual thoughts you can’t seem to stop?

These behaviours can start to create distance and conflict in your real-life relationship.

You might feel more aroused by online content than by your partner, or feel guilty about how much time you spend online – becoming defensive or angry if challenged. You may even argue that “internet sex isn’t real” and your partner shouldn’t be upset. But if any of this sounds familiar – in yourself or your partner – it could be a sign that internet use or pornography is affecting your relationship.

This is a topic that causes great stress for many couples. While technology offers easy, anonymous access, it doesn’t lessen the emotional impact. Some people describe discovering their partner’s porn use as feeling just as painful as a real-life affair.

How Couple Therapy Can Help

Our couple counsellors will help you both talk openly about how you’re feeling. We’ll support the person who has become dependent on pornography to explore what they’re getting from it, and help them understand the impact it’s having on their partner and the relationship.

This kind of understanding often plays a big part in helping couples begin to reconnect and find a way forward together.

If you’re struggling with the impact of pornography in your relationship, we’re here to help. Contact us at Relationship Counselling Kent today.
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