• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
GO TO EXPAT LIVING SINGAPORE
GET OUR NEWSLETTER

Expat Living Hong Kong HomepageExpat Living Hong Kong

Moving to Hong Kong and not sure where to start? Expat Living is the essential lifestyle guide to living in Hong Kong.

Menu
  • Living In Hong Kong
      • Living Here
      • Where To Live
      • Schools
      • For Guys
        • Luxury homes for lease in Hong Kong
        • Home loans for Aussie expats 
        • image of domestic worker for story on advice on hiring a helper in Hong KongGuide to hiring a helper in Hong Kong
        • Expat life in Hong Kong - advantages and disadvantagesPros and cons of living in HK
      • View all
    Close
  • Things To Do
      • Things To Do
      • What’s On/Calendar
      • Competitions & Offers
        • 9 family-friendly hikes in Hong Kong
        • What to watch – or listen to…
        • Great podcasts we are listening to!
        • Key Chinese events and festivals in Hong Kong - Chinese New YearTraditional Festivals & Events in HK
      • View all
    Close
  • Kids
      • Activities & Things To Do
      • Education & Enrichment
      • Health & Wellness
      • Mums & Babies
      • Podcasts
      • Kids Offers
        • jobs of the futurePreparing children for the jobs of the future
        • Language courses for all the family
        • Where to get stylish kid-friendly mats
        • Does your child need a little extra help?
      • View all
    Close
  • Homes
      • Home Décor
      • Readers Homes
        • Luxury homes for lease in Hong Kong
        • Beautiful ginger jar lamps for your home
        • Where to get stylish kid-friendly mats
        • Taking the stress out of moving
      • View all
    Close
  • Travel
      • Short Breaks
      • Further Afield
      • Travel News & Offers
        • Beach escapes - Gili Lankanfushi – MaldivesPlan ahead: 8 great beach escapes
        • Top skiing destinations - Whistler, CanadaStunning ski stays in Europe and beyond
        • Mongolia - kidsA family adventure in Mongolia
        • Where to stay and what to do in Thailand - MerdekaQuick getaways: Where to go in Thailand
      • View all
    Close
  • Wine & Dine
      • Recipes & Groceries
      • Bars & Restaurants
        • Carrot and lentil soup recipeRecipe: Carrot and Lentil Soup
        • Vegetarian recipe: Vietnamese rice roll with quorn mince and bolognese sauce5 meat-free meal ideas to try
        • Chocolate Tiffin - RecipeNo-bake Chocolate Tiffin Recipe
        • Fiamma Italian restaurant - tortelliniTaste Test: Peak Italian Cuisine at Fiamma
      • View all
    Close
  • Style & Beauty
      • Fashion
      • Hair & Beauty
        • Buying diamonds - The Diamond Registry can offer competitive pricing as a major international diamond distributor.Looking for a good deal on diamonds?
        • Where to go for pampering
        • Paraben-free skincare for men!
        • Where to get eyelash extensions in Hong Kong - Eyelash ProWhere to get eyelash extensions
      • View all
    Close
  • Health & Fitness
      • Medical & Dental
      • Fitness
      • Wellness
        • Home workout5 workout moves you can do at home
        • Central & Stanley Wellness - functional medicine treatmentFunctional medicine and how it helps
        • KAMA CBD OilWhat is CBD and can it help your health?
        • ATP - weight loss - fitness trainingBody makeover: an inspiring journey
      • View all
    Close
  • Shop
      • Magazine
      • Advertise With Us
        • December – February 2021
        • DEC-FEB 2020 – $36 (USUAL PRICE $48)
        • City Guide 2020-2021
        • City Guide 2020-2021 – $28
      • View all
    Close
Home » Health & Fitness » Internet porn among children

Internet porn among children

3 May, 2020 by Expat Living 5 Min Read

https://expatliving.hk/internet-pornography-among-children-clinical-psyschologist-hong-kong/

DR QURATULAIN ZAIDI of Mind N Life looks at the problem of internet pornography – particularly among children – and the detrimental impact that its consumption can have in our homes.

Over the past few months, I’ve had a few distraught parents coming to my office, reporting they have recently discovered their young daughters have been watching pornography. In some cases, it had been going on for months – in one case, over a year. The age range of the children involved was seven to nine years. The parents were, as you can imagine, experiencing an avalanche of emotions – including feeling scared and helpless, and blaming themselves.

It has highlighted to me that this silent issue that is so prevalent in our society is one that needs to be addressed.

The problem of porn

Pornography destroys lives, dreams, marriages and families. It doesn’t discriminate based on race, culture, age, gender, political affiliation, religion or financial status. It plays a role in marital and family breakdowns, and generates serious problems for individuals, families and societies.

This global business is estimated to be worth almost US$100 billion, with about $12 billion of that in the US alone. In 2018, more than 5,517,000,000 hours of porn were consumed on the biggest porn site in the world. Eleven such sites are among the world’s top 300 most popular internet sites. Porn sites receives more regular traffic than Netflix, Amazon and Twitter combined each month. This industry is big, to say the least.

It’s often assumed that girls aren’t the ones seeking out porn. Yet, this is quickly changing – and teenage girls are significantly more likely to actively seek it than women 25 years old and above. What’s more, one study of 14-to-19-year-olds found that females who consumed pornographic videos were at a significantly greater likelihood of being victims of sexual harassment or sexual assault.

New research suggests that children under the age of 10 now account for one in 10 visitors to porn video sites. The average age of first exposure is 11. It’s estimated that at least 95 percent of all teens in the US have been exposed to pornography (intentionally or unintentionally), and nine out of 10 children between the ages of eight and 16.

All of these figures are alarming and disturbing.

Impact on developing brains

Pornography can have a big impact on children’s development. Here are just a few quotes by researchers on the topic (from Enough is Enough; enough.org):

  • “Pornography consumption is associated with decreased brain volume in the right striatum, decreased left striatum activation, and lower functional connectivity to the prefrontal cortex.”
  • “Teens and pre-teens with highly ‘plastic’ brains are compulsively using high-speed internet porn, with their porn tastes becoming out of sync with their real-life sexuality.”
  • “Exposure to pornography between nine and 13 is linked to high-risk behaviours.”
  •  “As hours of reported pornography use increases, the amount of grey matter in the brain decreases.”
  • “The exposure of children to internet pornography is having an impact on the development of harmful sexual behaviours. The current average age of the first perpetration of sexual violence is 15 to 16 years, and it’s associated with exposure to pornography.”

It’s an addiction

Another study conducted around online sexual imagery showed that 80 percent of girls aged 16 to 20 had watched pornography; of those, eight percent felt they couldn’t stop watching it and 10 percent said the content they watch over time had become more extreme. This has been the case with the families who’ve come to seek help in my office, too.

The same study showed that 97 percent of boys had viewed pornography. Of those, 23 percent said they tried to stop watching it but couldn’t. And 13 percent reported that the content they watched had “become more and more extreme”. Seven percent sought professional help because they felt their porn habit was getting out of control. It’s hard to erase those images from the mind.

This silent addiction – some have even dubbed it a “pandemic” – is like an assailant. We have to take active steps to safeguard young, innocent, developing minds from it. Two thirds of young women and almost half of young men agree: it would be easier growing up if pornography was less easy to access, they say.

How to protect your family

#1 Actively talk to your children

Unfortunately, internet pornography has become sex education for many children. But it is a poor educator – and a dangerous one. Particularly among younger children, exposure to pornography may be disturbing or upsetting. Be mindful of the age of your children.

#2 Proactively block content

If you don’t currently have blocks on Wi-Fi and on any device your child can access, do this with immediate effect. It’s important to keep access to devices in high traffic areas like the dining room; no devices should be in the bedrooms at night! We still have old-fashioned alarm clocks to help us with morning alarms.

#3 Be aware of accidental exposure

A common cause of exposure to porn is accidental. For example, when it pops up on a computer screen for a particular reason. In these cases, let them know they should turn off the computer and reach out to you. Remember, contrary to popular belief, sexually explicit materials do not enhance marriage or a couple’s intimacy; they can sometimes have a negative impact because pornography establishes false expectations for looks, intimacy and sex. And pornography is not harmless.

Other ways to help

There are many things you can do to support your child if you discover they have a problem with pornography.

  •  Offer constant love and support. They’re probably living with feelings of guilt and shame, and are likely devastated that you know about their problem.
  • Manage your own feelings of anger, guilt, hurt and disappointment (which are natural) and be present to support your child.
  • Regularly check in with them to see if they are feeling urges to visit a site. Ensure they can come and talk to you. And help them in that time by watching a movie, playing a game, reading a book together and being there for them.
  • If needed, seek professional help. Be aware, though, that due to the ease of accessibility, overcoming a pornography addiction can be a challenging process and relapses may happen.

Although the statistics reveal that viewing pornography is a favourite pastime for millions of consumers, those consumers are actively contributing to an exploitative industry. This can change if we raise awareness of the detrimental impact its consumption has in our homes, on our children, in our societies and communities, and how it is imperative that we exclude porn from our lives.

This is one addiction we can safeguard our children from. We can proactively take preventative measures by being sensible with the use and access of devices and the internet for our children, and we can keep an open dialogue with them.

Find out more

Dr Zaidi is a British-registered clinical psychologist who works with individuals, couples and families in her private practice in Central, and as a mental health consultant for a number of international schools.

2521 4668 | info@mindnlife.com
mindnlife.com


See our Teens section for more relevant reading:

Is anxiety a teen epidemic in Hong Kong?
Teen skin care: tips and treatments

This article first appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.

Categories: Health & Fitness Health & Wellness Kids Wellness Tags: Health Mind N Life Porn Pornography Pornography issues Teen health

You May Also Like

Where to get stylish kid-friendly mats

Does your child need a little extra help?

Central & Stanley Wellness - functional medicine treatment

Functional medicine and how it helps

Primary Sidebar

Editor's Picks

Kellett School

Best International Schools In Hong Kong, Preschool to Secondary

Furniture in Hong Kong: Guide To The Best Furniture Stores

sightseeing in Hong Kong

Top 30 Hong Kong Attractions & Best Places To Visit

Where to live in Hong Kong

Guide to Living in Hong Kong and where to live

Landing pads: places to stay in Hong Kong

Brunch in Hong Kong

Best Sunday Brunch Places in Hong Kong

What's On

Puccini's Turandot Opera

The MET’S “Nightly Met Opera Streams”

Students at Hong Kong Academy

Hong Kong Academy – Applications Open for 2021/22

CDNIS - Admissions

CDNIS Admissions Timetable: Apply Now for January and August 2021

Events & Weekend Activities - The Grounds is the city's first responsible entertainment destination

The Grounds: HK’s first ‘COVID-19 responsible’ entertainment destination

Elsa in scene from Frozen

FWD Presents: The Frozen Exhibition Hong Kong

You Rise art exhibition by JM Robert

“You Rise” Solo Exhibition by JM Robert

Expat Living Hong Kong 🇭🇰

expatlivinghk

Open
Pieces for your dining room mood board!🪑We are feeling these tones 🤎
Open
Thanks Julianna for this delicious 
Easy Blueberry Oreo Cheesecake to start the weekend!
Serves 4, or 2 if you're hungry😉

Preparation time: 15 mins Ingredients:
• 6 digestive biscuits
• 50g butter 
• 250g cream cheese (1 brick) 
• 6 Oreo biscuits
• 125g blueberries (1 box)
• 100g milk or whipped cream 
• 5 tablespoons sugar

Instructions:
For crust:
1. Crush digestive biscuits in a big bowl and add melted butter.
2. Press together at the base of the cake mould.
3. Set aside to cool.

For filling: 
1. Beat cream cheese, sugar and milk or whipped cream on medium speed in a bowl until it is smooth and creamy. 
2. Add crushed Oreos and beat until they mix evenly. 
3. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
4. Freeze for two hours and top with blueberries!🫐
Open
If you’re looking for a place to live in Hong Kong - particularly if you’re moving here and want an easy landing pad - a serviced apartment can be a godsend! @hongkongparkview is like a mini town with everything you need from a Clubhouse with full facilities to a toy shop, clothes and food shop! 🏞🛍
Open
Read our Winter issue on any device for free 👉 expatliving.hk/digital/ig.
Inside: Two inspiring home reno stories, great dining room furniture ideas, insider's guide to Hung Hom Bay and plenty of other great reads, including easy dessert recipes!
Open
How cool is this - Hong Kong-based @ovolohotels is the first hotel group to go entirely vegetarian across its restaurants, bars and food services for a year! 🌱This move is the latest in the group’s series of eco-friendly initiatives, and doesn’t this look delicious!👏🏻
Open
If we’ve learnt anything this last year it’s how much a magical view can do for your mind🌿These are just some of the properties showcased by @knightfrank 🙌🏼 Head to knightfrank.com.hk to see what’s currently available! 🏞
Open
Wishing everyone a safe and Happy New Year from the team at @expatlivinghk ❤️

📷 @lailasophiashah
Open
There’s been a buzz lately around CBD (Cannabidiol, derived from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant) and its purported health benefits. 
Did you know it’s available in Hong Kong? 🌿

@kamacbdhk is a new HK-based company offering CBD products that can help a number of ailments, check out our article and their page for more information!🌺
Open
🎄 Merry Christmas everyone! It's been an extraordinary year and we're so grateful for your support. We wish you all a safe and happy holiday season 🌟🥂
Open
This 1950s colonial-style walk up in Kowloon Tong has been styled so well by tenant Jerome, it is fascinating to hear about the place and it’s history! For the full story and Jerome’s recommendations see our DEC-FEB issue✨📖
Open
Whether you’ve hiked up Old Peak Road or taken the tram, make sure you’re hungry, as you’ll want to consume most of the menu from @fiammahk 🍴🍅
Open
5 steps for a stylish Christmas, courtesy of Hong Kong-based home furnishing retailer @indigo_living 🎄
 
#1 Decide on a Theme:
Every momentous Christmas feast begins with a stunning table-scape. Whether you’re going for the classic red and green pairing or a contemporary setting, pick a theme that you can go all out with! 
 
#2 Organise Your Linen:
Generally speaking, a crisp white linen table-runner will do. But if you’re looking to up the ante this year, go for one with subtle prints on it. 
 
#3 Choose a Centrepiece:
 A beautiful Christmas centrepiece is the fastest way to add cheer to your party. It’s also a great excuse to show off your creative flair to friends and family. 
 
#4 Invest in a Good Set of Tableware:
When it comes to tableware, most people play it safe with crystal glasses and porcelain plates. Why not take it up a notch by throwing a set of gold cutlery into the mix? It’s an instant pop of luxury that exudes warmth to traditional red and green themes. 🍴
 
#5 End with a Bang:
What’s a Christmas dinner without some good old-fashioned crackers? Sure to put a smile on anyone’s faces, they’ll also ensure your party goes out with a bang! 💫
Open
What a view 🙌🏼

📷 @lailasophiashah
Open
Less than five days left to vote for your favourite businesses! You could win fun family staycays and dining vouchers, so make sure to vote today by visiting 👉 expatliving.hk/readerschoice

.
#expatlivinghk #hkbusiness #hongkongbusiness #elhkreaderschoice #hkexpats
Open
Jazz up your dining area with these pretty picks!⚡️

Companies tagged in the photos for more details🪑
Open
Get ready for Christmas, CNY and beyond with these fab treatment packages now available at @amooma.spa ✨

#1 BUBBLE & SPARKLE
A package for two, including an aroma steam shower, deep sleep tourmaline crystal massage, sparkling champagne facial and a glass of champagne 🥂

#2 HO! HO! HO! IT’S ME-TIME!
Designed for one person, this me-time includes a ling organic forbidden rice scrub, ling nourishing body wrap, AMOONA signature blend and knesko gemological face mask 🧖🏼‍♀️
Open
How good do these look 😍 New recipe from @charissa_and_co_wellness. You can try a free sample by scanning the bar code on our online articles 💜

Recipe: Flourless Pecan Cranberry Brownie

Ingredients

Brownie base:

2 servings of Nuzest Clean Lean Chocolate Protein
1.5 cup of pumpkin puree
1 cup of hazelnut butter or almond *
1/2 cup of raw dark cacao powder
1/2 cup of chopped pecans
1/3 cup of dehydrated cranberries
2 teaspoons of Manuka honey ** Optional
White chocolate drizzle:

1/3 cup of melted cacao butter
2 tablespoons of cashew nut butter
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1-2 teaspoons of Erythritol
Dark chocolate drizzle:

1/3 cup of melted cacao butter
2 tablespoons of cashew nut butter
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 tablespoon of coconut oil
3 tablespoons of raw dark cacao powder
1 teaspoon of Erythritol
Instructions

Brownie base:

Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
Grease a square baking tray with coconut oil and line tray with parchment paper.
In a large blender, mix all the brownie ingredients together until smooth.
Pour the brownie mix into the pan and bake in the oven for 20 minutes.
Once cooked, allow the brownies to cool on a rack.
Chocolate drizzle:

You will need two separate mixing bowls for the white and dark chocolate drizzle.
Melt the cacao butter at low temperature and mix with the rest of the ingredients.
Pour the chocolate drizzle over the cooled brownies.
Pop them in the fridge to set or enjoy them as warm brownies.**
Optional: Sprinkle some fresh pomegranate and dried cranberry seeds onto the brownies (after cooling in the fridge for 20 minutes).
Open
TGIF 🌿🌿

📷 @lailasophiashah
Open
In our new winter issue we take a look at Dutch expat Nicole Hessing’s impressive home renovation in Clearwater Bay 🏡 Check out the article for all her tips and local recommendations 👉 expatliving.hk/digital/ig
Open
Good morning! We’ve got another delicious recipe from @charissa_and_co_wellness 💕

Recipe: Persimmon Vanilla Chia Porridge

Serves 2

Ingredients

PERSIMMON-VANILLA-CHAI-PORRIDGE.jpg
Chia Vanilla Milky Layer:

1/2 cup of chia Seeds
1.5 cup of coconut milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
2 servings of Nuzest Clean Lean Protein Vanilla 
1 tablespoon of tahini paste
2 Medjool dates
2 slices of fresh persimmon
Persimmon Coconut Porridge Layer:

1 whole persimmon chopped
1/2 cup of coconut yoghurt
2 tablespoons of coconut flakes
1 teaspoon of almond butter
Instructions

Chia Vanilla Milky Layer:

Blend all the ingredients together apart from the chia seeds.
Once the mix is well blended, add the chia seeds and mix well. Place in a glass jar and leave overnight in the fridge.
Persimmon Coconut Porridge Layer:

Blend all the ingredients together until creamy and smooth. Place in a glass jar, leave overnight in the fridge.
The next morning you can enjoy your porridge by layering your chia porridge with the persimmon porridge.
Optional: Add in between crunchy texture by sprinkling some raw buckwheat groats already activated or quinoa puffs
  • COMPETITIONS & OFFERS
  • About
  • Advertise
  • Contact
  • Privacy
  • Subscribe

© 2021 Expat Living Hong Kong, All Rights Reserved.