Teens & Pornography: NEW Common Sense Media Report

This week Common Sense Media published a new report: "Teens & Pornography.” Researchers surveyed a random sample of over 1,300 teens ages 13-17 from the United States to determine how they engaged with pornography online. This research is being shared across news platforms including The New York Times and CNN. Here’s the full report.

It includes some troubling statistics:

• 12 years old was the average age for exposure to pornography
• 15% of the respondents reported seeing online porn before the age of 10
• 75% of kids at age 17 had viewed pornography
• 52% reported seeing violent pornography, including media that depicts what appears to be rape, choking, or someone in pain

See more stats in the infographic here.

We don't share these statistics with you to evoke fear. We share them to empower you as parents, grandparents & teachers to talk with kids about the dangers of pornography. 

Common Sense Media founder, James P. Steyer warned: 

‍"We need to consider conversations with teens about pornography the same way we think of conversations about sex, social media, drug and alcohol use, and more. Kids can and will be exposed to pornography one way or another, often before a caregiver has a chance to tackle the subject." 

We agree and openly recommend parents tackling the topic of pornography with their young children, as soon as they have any access to the internet. #SoonerIsSafer.  #TalkTodaySaferTomorrow.

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Our Defend Young Minds guides, books, and curriculum for families and classrooms will help you begin these conversations in age-appropriate, comfortable ways.

One incredulous mom wrote in about how much the Good Pictures Bad Pictures books have helped her family:

‍Kristen - I think you already know this, but I just wanted to tell you what a huge difference you've made by providing Good Pictures Bad Pictures as a resource for parents. It is so valuable. Before I had a copy and I read that it presented the topic in a clear, comprehensive, and yet comfortable way, I was incredulous. I couldn't imagine how the topic could possibly be comfortable. But you did it. It's perfect. I read it with my sons every 6 months or so and they really take it to heart. We even use the  thinking and feeling brain concept in other areas of life. Thank you for this wonderful book, and for attacking such a difficult and important topic head on. I and so many other parents are incredibly grateful to you. –Victoria H.