A group of children was questioned in research on how frequently their friends watched porn. They answered frequently. The majority of participants in the survey who were asked about parental controls on their gadgets responded that they had none since their parents trusted them. However, their parents are unaware of what their kids are witnessing. Why are controls such a necessity? First, the typical age at which a youngster is exposed to porn is 11. If that is the standard, some kids will witness it far earlier. In addition, research is starting to paint a complete and horrifying picture of what porn does to the brain and a person’s life.
It affects the brain, much like a drug, and makes us crave a level of excitement that our healthy marital sex life doesn’t consistently deliver. It causes a need that cannot be satiated in our children and gives them a false perspective of sex. Why are there so many dads who are ignoring this? Is it a result of their lack of concern? Is it a result of their use of porn? Perhaps they feel hypocritical for setting limits for their children when they cannot maintain their own. If this is you, we want you to know that there is still time to protect your children and that you, too, have hope. These ten strategies will help you combat porn.
1. Recognize your problem.
The world in which we live expects us to defend and accept practically any offensive behavior that comes to mind. Admitting you have a pornography issue is one of the best things you can do for your marriage, your kids, and yourself.
2. Invite dependable pals over to motivate and hold you accountable.
Additionally, we advise including your wife in your struggle. A big step in the correct approach is acknowledging you have a problem and sharing your experience with others.
3. Online accountability is a good idea.
Utilize software to keep an eye on your internet behavior. Covenant Eyes is an excellent tool. It enables you to get weekly reports about the websites and searches your accountability partner visits. It indicates when you should check in with one another regarding dubious behavior. Finally, it enables you to rejoice with one another when online conflicts are resolved.
4. Establish limits when using your mobile device.
Nowadays, a desktop computer is less of a barrier to porn than our smartphones and tablets. Your mobile device is subject to the same online responsibility rules. Use software to track all online activities and establish restrictions.
5. If you have access to offline pornography, throw it away.
Your “battle” against pornography addiction is a front if you still hold onto that magazine or DVD in your hidden storage space. Find courage and throw those things away right away.
6. All media should be taken seriously.
You must shield yourself from anything that could harm you if you want to combat pornography. Do not delude yourself into believing that sexual circumstances or unfavorable portrayals of women are acceptable in TV shows or films. They hurt even if they are not viewed as “porn.” These entertainment forms will only worsen your struggle with pornography if you already have it.
7. If you’re married, stop for a moment to reflect on your union.
Are you content in your marriage and joyful? What about your wedding? Is fantastic? What’s missing? Are you happy with how sexually intimate your marriage is? These are excellent questions for you to ask. They may help you find the source of your addiction.
8. Recognize that you didn’t just develop a porn addiction.
Where you are now has been heavily influenced by how you act in public and dress daily. The battle begins in the mundane events and scenarios—that long glance at the passing woman, that second glance at the woman you just passed, those thoughts that cross your mind when you notice the magazines in the grocery store checkout line. Fight the good battle here as well. Watch your mind and your sight.
9. Consider something other than the pictures or movies you see for a moment.
This is a genuine person, a woman who is a human being like you, made by God. She may even be someone’s mother, sister, or daughter. Think about how exploited and incredibly exposed she must feel living her life in front of the camera daily. She probably fell victim to sex trafficking, and your addiction funds this multibillion-dollar crime. She is not here for your entertainment. She is being held captive and is probably pleading for assistance.
10. Your pornography addiction is primarily a heart problem.
The truth is being exchanged for a lie. Your affections are voluntarily focused on cheap delights that are eventually transitory and make you feel unworthy. God created you and for God. Every time you are tempted, pray to God for assistance.