Pornographic images are highly stimulating for a child’s brain and can cause it to release unnatural levels of dopamine. The repeated pursuit of this stimulation can exhaust the brain’s system. Join Saed News as we discuss the various effects of such content on a child's mental health and development.
With the rise of computers, the internet, satellite TV, films, DVDs, mobile phones, and more, it has become nearly impossible to control children's exposure by simply banning satellite channels, restricting internet usage, or limiting mobile phone features. If you have a teenager at home, you know that you can’t just use force or blindfold them to keep them away from harmful content. How long can parents act as constant watchdogs? When is it safe to trust them? More importantly, how can we teach our children to differentiate between right and wrong with wisdom and caution so that they don’t drown in the ever-expanding sea of media?
There is a saying: “He is a skilled swimmer, but he has never seen water.” We now live in a world where the ocean of media is readily accessible—have we taught our children how to swim in it safely?
The highest demand for pornographic material comes from teenagers aged 12 to 17. Accessing such content is not difficult—just take a walk down the street, and you'll see DVD vendors displaying their products. Many families also unknowingly expose their children to sexually suggestive content by watching satellite TV series at night. These parents often claim that such shows don’t contain explicit or provocative scenes, yet their themes revolve around sexual relationships, which can spark curiosity in children and teenagers.
This exposure often becomes their first and easiest source of sexual education, despite the fact that these films and images lack any real educational value and omit essential health and safety information. As a result, children and teenagers face significant physical and psychological risks.
Pornographic material exaggerates and misrepresents sexual relationships, leading children and teenagers, who have no prior knowledge or perspective on sex, to accept these false ideas as reality. They may adopt these unrealistic depictions as the correct model for sexual behavior.
Exposure to sexually explicit content at an early age can lead to premature sexual development, engaging in sexual behaviors too soon, experiencing emotional distress due to body changes, social rejection by peers, and unrealistic expectations from parents and society.
Some adults with sexual disorders may use pornographic material to manipulate and exploit children and teenagers. Watching such content can also increase the likelihood of young viewers engaging in sexual activities, making them more vulnerable to sexual violence and assault.
Some children and teenagers attempt to mimic what they see in pornographic films, sometimes involving their peers or even younger children. This can lead to unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and even an addiction to sexual activities.
Pornographic content exposes children and teenagers to sexual information prematurely and inappropriately. Many children who encounter such material develop severe anxiety, including symptoms such as nightmares, nail-biting, and bedwetting.
One of the direct consequences of exposure to pornography is compulsive masturbation. Many individuals who engage in frequent masturbation become trapped in a cycle of repetition, leading to physical weakness and an increased risk of psychological issues such as depression and anxiety.
Three main reasons prevent parents from openly discussing these matters with their children:
Lack of Awareness – Many parents don’t know how to educate their children about sexual matters.
Fear of Breaking Family Boundaries – Parents worry that discussing such topics will erode family values.
Uncertainty About the Right Time – Parents are unsure when it is appropriate to have such conversations.
Parents need to educate themselves first, as discussing these topics is essential and can shape a child’s future. The best time to start the conversation is when a child asks a question. Even if it seems like simple curiosity, parents should seize the moment to provide guidance. They should address these topics with a balance of fatherly authority and understanding.
Many young people today fall victim to the internet, where explicit content is easily accessible. Even if they don’t actively seek out pornography, they may encounter it inadvertently—sometimes as a joke among friends, sometimes through an unexpected email or link. Exposure to such content can disrupt brain function and gradually lead to an obsession with watching more.
Easy access to explicit content is shaping a future generation that views sex as mere entertainment rather than a meaningful aspect of life. Studies indicate that 80% of children who view explicit content for the first time never tell anyone about it. As they continue to be exposed to such material, they may become socially withdrawn and struggle with forming healthy relationships.
Given these dangers, it is crucial for parents to take proactive steps. Instead of just restricting access, they should focus on education, open conversations, and guidance to help their children navigate the modern world safely.
