The Internet: Friend or Foe?

Today, while reading the dozens of emails that I typically receive daily, I came across an article about pornography addiction and how it impacts lives of both youth and adults.  Pornography is easily accessible to all through the internet and poisons the minds of those exposed to it.  It gives viewers a self-centered, distorted view of sexuality.  It alters attitudes, emotions, self-image, self-esteem, and one's core beliefs for life.  It affects both males and females equally, but in different ways.  It discourages respecting oneself and others and encourages misusing others for personal satisfaction.  It destroys relationships, marriages, and families. 

July 11 – August 7, 2011 is the "Pornography Harms" National Awareness Campaign.  Please become aware of and carefully think about what you are putting into your brain through your eyes and ears.  It does affect the way you think about yourself and others and the choices you make!  Parents, take the time to guard your children as much as possible from pornography by setting healthy boundaries, discussing the harm that pornography causes, listening to their questions and concerns, and setting a good example of self-control by avoiding exposure to pornography yourself. 

For more information, check out "Top 10 Internet Safety Tips" and other helpful information at www.pornharms.com and www.moralityinmedia.org .  For helping youth who have been exposed to pornography and for youth and adults who are dealing with pornography addiction, there are resources available. 

So, is the internet a friend or foe?  It's a lot like fire; it all depends on how it's used - for good or for harm.  To make healthy choices for internet use, it takes education, self-control, and positive reinforcement, pure and simple.

Sandy Pickert, RN, MPH

Executive Director

Pure & Simple Health Education, Inc.