“Of all internet applications, porn has the most potential to become addictive.” (Meerkerk, 2006).

The Reward Foundation is a pioneering relationship and sex education charity. The name comes from the 'reward system' of the brain, the part responsible for motivating behaviour. This system can be hijacked and diverted by artificially strong rewards such as drugs, alcohol, nicotine and the internet. Binging on these substances and activities can shrink the grey matter in the brain. This in turn affects our ability to put the brakes on impulsive or risky behaviour and to make good decisions. 

Internet porn is a super-normal or "industrial strength" sexual stimulus. It's nothing like porn of the past. As with cocaine and heroin use, it can lead to compulsive or addictive use in some people. Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to its effects. They are also the most motivated to use it. Porn can poison relationships, promote mental health issues, cause sexual dysfunction and even lead to criminal behaviour like watching child sexual abuse material. Learn more from a neuroscientist on how this can happen and what to do about it. 

The Reward Foundation is a key source of evidence-based information about love relationships and the impact of internet pornography on mental and physical health, relationships, learning and legal risks.

We do not offer therapy nor provide legal advice. However, we do signpost routes to recovery for people whose porn use has become problematic. Our aim is to help users, parents, professionals and politicians to access the evidence and support they need to take make informed decisions and take appropriate action.