Compulsive pornography consumption is formally recognized as an impulse control disorder and is associated with excessive pornography use patterns despite adverse consequences, including emotional distress, impaired relationships, and difficulties with self-regulation. Although widely studied in terms of prevalence and psychological outcomes, less is known about how individual value systems may influence susceptibility to compulsive pornography use. The aim of this study was to examine gender differences in the relationship between Schwartz’s Basic Human Values and compulsive pornography use. The Compulsive Pornography Consumption (CPC) Scale was used alongiside the Short Schwartz Values Survey (SSVS) among 1285 students. Results from linear regression analyses separately for females and males showed that power values significantly predicted higher levels of compulsive pornography use in both genders. Among females, stimulation also had a significant positive effect, while among males, universalism was positively associated with compulsive pornography watching, and achievement and self-direction were negatively associated with it. These findings suggest that personal value orientations play a meaningful role in understanding individual vulnerability to pornography addiction, with power emerging as a shared risk factor for both genders. Gender-specific patterns highlight the importance of considering individual differences in motivational priorities when addressing problematic pornography use. Given the gender differences, more research in this area is warranted.
Book of Abstracts [Unofficial – Accepted Presentation, Abstract Submission Ongoing]
Gender Differences in the Relationship Between Human Values and Compulsive Pornography Use