Porn in the USA: thanks to the nerds who created the Internet, you no longer need to visit the adult bookstore incognito to get your smut on. But is easily accessible porn a good thing?

Men's Fitness, Nov, 2004 by Greg Melville

PORN-FREE

For guys whose obsessions become too difficult to manage, new sex-addiction treatment groups are more widely available. I. David Marcus, a psychotherapist in San Jose, Calif., says anyone who spends several hours a week pornicating should question whether he's becoming dependent.

Take away the temptation by installing SPA-M-blockers for your e-mail, he says, and software that will log you off the Web after an hour or two. If the problem spirals out of control, talk to a friend, seek help, or attend a group session like Sex Addicts Anonymous (sexaa.org). However you do it, get away from that computer and take back your life.

Bob finally reds like he has come to terms with his addiction. "I realized pornography wasn't my friend anymore," he says. He sought counseling and joined a 12-step group for sex addicts. Now he has a new job and a "zero-tolerance policy" for himself regarding porn. "I'm just more focused on my goals in life," he says. "I have far more self-respect. I have the shame of the past, but I don't carry the shame and guilt of that lifestyle any longer."

STUCK ON SMUT?

Are you a porn addict? Find out: Close that issue of Happy Mammaries, get your right hand off the mouse, your left hand out of your pants, and take this quiz (adapted from "The Sex Addiction Screening Test" by Patrick Carnes. Ph.D.). This test is not a substitute for a complete assessment from a professional therapist versed in treating sexually compulsive behaviors. For the original test. visit sexhelp.com

Which of the following applies to you and porn?

1. I often can't resist my impulse to view it.

2. I often spend more money, or time, on it than planned.

3. Many times I've tried--without success--to reduce or step altogether my porn usage.

4. I spend excessive time looking for it, viewing sexual materials, or being engaged in sexual activities.

5. I'm constantly preoccupied with it.

6. Sometimes, instead of meeting family, work, or social obligations. I'm using it.

7. I continue using porn, even though I'm aware my habit is taking a personal, financial, and maybe even physical toll on my life.

8. The more I use it, the more I need to up the thrill or risk level to get the same satisfaction.

9. I'm passing up potential work and social opportunities for porn's sake.

10. I become upset, stressed, or irritable when I'm unable to access it.

Summary:

If you answered "yes" to four or more of these statements, consider seeking professional treatment from a therapist trained in treating sexually compulsive behaviors. For a national database of these therapists and a variety of other addiction resources, visit compasspointaf.org.

Contributor Greg Melville teaches journalism at St. Michael's College in Burlington. Vt.