There isn’t clear data saying that porn is bad for teens. But porn can skew teens’ views about sex and intimacy. It’s important for teenagers to know that porn perpetuates unrealistic expectations and harmful stereotypes about sex.
Is Pornography Dangerous for Teens?
Unrealistic depiction of sex can skew children's views
Clinical Expert: Alan Ravitz, MD, MS
en EspañolDr. Alan Ravitz, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, discusses how pornography’s unrealistic depiction of bodies, sex, and relationships can skew a young person’s views about intimacy. It’s good to let our kids know that, he explains, to temper unreal expectations and harmful stereotypes that may hinder their development into healthy adults.
Related: Why You Should be Talking to Teens About Sex
How to Talk to Kids About Sex and Consent
Teens and Romantic Relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about our Family Resource Center and our editorial mission.
Was this article helpful?
Related Reading
-
AI Chatbots and Teens
What parents need to know — and how to talk about safety concerns
-
Teens and Sleep: The Cost of Sleep Deprivation
Lack of adequate sleep is linked to moodiness, risky behavior and injuries
-
Teen Self-Diagnosis and How to Respond
When your child thinks they have a mental health disorder based on social media
-
Best Anxiety Medication for Children and Teens
Antidepressants trump all others as the most effective evidence-based choice
-
What Parents Should Know About Teens, Drinking and Drugs
And how to help your child make good choices
-
LGBT Teens, Bullying, and Suicide
What are the causes and how can we help?
-
Teen Vaping: What You Need to Know
Use of JUUL and other highly addictive e-cigarettes is skyrocketing among young people
-
I found porn on my 11-year-old’s phone. Should I talk to him?
It might be an awkward conversation, but you shouldn't put it off