The average young person will view pornography (or porn) for the first time at 13.6 years old, according to a new report from Our Watch.
The national violence prevention organisation also found that young girls are viewing porn two years earlier, on average, compared to young girls in 2018.
It warned that online porn can negatively affect young people’s attitudes towards gender, sex, and relationships.
Context
Our Watch spoke to more than 800 Australians aged 16 to 20 for its latest survey. Respondents were asked about topics including sex, dating, and their attitudes towards porn.
“As much as 90% of pornography content online features verbal, physical and sexual violence towards women,” Our Watch noted.
It said that “pornography can perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes and strengthen attitudes supportive of violence against women”.
Findings
- 84% of respondents said porn perpetuates stereotypes of gender roles during sex.
- 69% said they believe porn is harmful.
- 13.2 is the average age at which young men first watch porn.
- 13.9 is the average age at which young women first watch porn.
- Nearly a third of young people watch porn to educate themselves about sex.
- 25% of 16 to 17 year olds saw porn as “realistic”. This was lower among older participants (15%).
- 53% of young men said they watch porn at least once a week. 12% said they watch it most days.
- 19% of young women watch porn at least once a week.
- 1% said they watch it most days.
Our Watch asked respondents if they think porn is degrading to women:
- 65% of young men agreed
- 80% of young women agreed
“A lot of pornography demonstrates women as submissive and men in controlling and dominating positions… Whilst young people are going online to learn about sex, dating, and relationships… it is having a negative impact on many young people. It’s something that needs our attention.”
Our Watch CEO Patty Kinnersly
Recommendations
The report outlined several priority reform areas for governments, including teaching “respectful relationships education” in all schools.
“Age-appropriate discussions on porn must be taught alongside consent, gender and preventing violence,” Kinnersly said.
Our Watch cited data from the eSafety Commissioner, which found that 40% of young people think current education on sex and relationships is insufficient. The report also called for better resources and training for professionals who work with young people (e.g. teachers and youth workers).
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