Large analysis connects specific personality traits to problematic internet pornography use

A recent study has connected certain personality traits to problematic internet pornography use. Impulsivity, sexual compulsivity, and neuroticism were found to be more prevalent in those who struggle with this issue. In contrast, traits such as conscientiousness and self-control were linked to lower rates of pornography consumption overall.

The research, published in the journal Communication Research, analyzed data from 51 separate studies encompassing 45,808 participants from diverse countries, with an average age of 38. The studies measured internet pornography use alongside personality traits and relationship attachment styles.

Sexual compulsivity, defined as an intrusive urge to engage in sexual behaviors, emerged as the strongest psychological correlate with problematic pornography habits. Impulsivity, or the tendency to act without planning, also showed a strong positive link. Traits like sensation-seeking and narcissism were positively correlated with overall pornography use.

The analysis included the "Big Five" personality traits - extraversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism. Neuroticism, which involves a tendency to experience negative emotions, was positively correlated with both general and problematic pornography use. Conscientiousness and self-control, however, were linked to lower pornography consumption.

Anxious attachment was found to be positively linked to problematic pornography use, as these individuals may prefer online content due to its sexual stimulation without the risk of interpersonal rejection. The study's findings suggest that understanding these psychological profiles can help clinicians identify at-risk individuals and develop more effective treatment protocols.