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Understanding Serial Mediators of Problematic Pornography Use in Pakistani Men and Women

Author

Listed:
  • Khifza Bibi

    (Department of Professional Psychology, Bahria University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan)

  • Ambreen Fatima

    (Department of Professional Psychology, Bahria University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan)

  • Rizwana Amin

    (Department of Professional Psychology, Bahria University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan)

  • David L. Rowland

    (Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383, USA)

Abstract

In the current digital environment, satisfying sexual needs via Internet pornography use has the potential to develop into a problem that affects one’s psychological health and daily functioning. The aim of this study was to examine potential cognitive and affective factors that could help explain the maintenance and exacerbation of self-defined problematic internet pornography use. Methods: 280 Pakistani men and women (mean age = 25.40; SD = 5.271, range 18–50) who were current pornography users were recruited through social networking sites (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, WhatsApp groups) to participate in an online study about pathways to problematic pornography use (PPU). Structural equation modeling was used to estimate path analysis coefficients extending from predisposing variables (depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and loneliness) to PPU via the mediating variables of craving, dysfunctional sexual coping, and stimulus-specific inhibitory control. Results: Craving mediated the relationship between three predisposing variables (depression, anxiety, and self-esteem) and PPU, though not the fourth, namely loneliness. Indirect effects of depression, anxiety, and self-esteem were significantly linked to PPU through two serial mediation pathways: (a) craving and stimulus-specific inhibitory control, and (b) craving and dysfunctional sexual coping. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that craving, stimulus-specific inhibitory control, and dysfunctional coping serve as important mediators in maintaining and exacerbating the cycle between negative predisposing variables and PPU. These results are interpreted within the general framework of therapeutic interventions that can help develop positive coping skills in individuals seeking to alter self-perceived bothersome or unwanted habits related to pornography use.

Suggested Citation

  • Khifza Bibi & Ambreen Fatima & Rizwana Amin & David L. Rowland, 2022. "Understanding Serial Mediators of Problematic Pornography Use in Pakistani Men and Women," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(21), pages 1-17, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:21:p:14336-:d:961392
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Juan M. Machimbarrena & Esther Calvete & Liria Fernández-González & Aitor Álvarez-Bardón & Lourdes Álvarez-Fernández & Joaquín González-Cabrera, 2018. "Internet Risks: An Overview of Victimization in Cyberbullying, Cyber Dating Abuse, Sexting, Online Grooming and Problematic Internet Use," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 15(11), pages 1-15, November.
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