Abstract

Research on the outcomes of pornography use for romantic couples has been extensive yet inconclusive. Studies have examined pornography use in a wide variety of contexts, leading to a wide variety of outcomes and well-being. The current study uses latent profile analysis to account for many contextual factors at once, dyadic data to examine the perspective of both partners simultaneously, and a range of individual and relational well-being outcomes to understand how different relational pornography use patterns lead to well-being. Results provided evidence for six unique profiles of couples based on pornography use patterns (personal use frequency, perceived partner use frequency, joint pornography use, and acceptance of pornography). Several interesting patterns emerged with respect to each profile's individual and relational outcomes. Overall, the group characterized by the lowest pornography use frequency as well as the lowest acceptance reported, on average, the best individual and relational well-being (either best or tied for best on almost every outcome). Conversely, couples characterized by high male use and low female use reported, on average, the worst overall individual and relational well-being. Furthermore, groups characterized by mutually high pornography use did not report significantly lower satisfaction than other groups, but they did report significantly lower relationship commitment and stability than other groups. Outcomes of pornography use for couples vary by context and by the nature of each outcome.

Degree

College and Department

Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Family Life

Rights

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