The Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) today has released a new study that examines the relationship between pornography use and sexual violence in Australian men.
The study, which saw almost 2,000 Australian heterosexual men participate via an online survey, examined the association of viewership of pornography and self-reported sexual violence perpetration in the 12 months preceding.
The AIC says the study is a key step in informing proactive measures taken to identify potential negative impacts of violent pornography on sexual behaviour.
“With the ever-growing availability of pornography within a high-tech world, increased research into its influence and subsequent consequences on behaviours is vital,” said AIC Deputy Director Dr Rick Brown.
“Studies such as these, build our understanding of the influences of pornography in the lead up to sexual violence, and will assist in reducing violence against women both in Australia and internationally.”
The research found that viewing pornography generally did not have an impact on self-reported sexual violence, but increased viewership of pornography depicting violence meant Australian men were more likely to self-report having perpetrated sexual violence.
The report is available on the AIC website.
The Australian Institute of Criminology
The AIC is Australia's national research and knowledge centre on crime and justice. The AIC seeks to promote justice and reduce crime by undertaking and communicating evidence-based research to inform policy and practice.
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