Study Looks at How Porn Differs Among Sexes

The American Family Association (AFA) Journal reports that according to survey findings released last fall by Harris Interactive, Inc., men and women differ in their views about the effects and possible regulation of pornography.

The story goes on to say that a Harris Poll in September 2004 revealed women to be much more critical of pornography, in general, than men. At the same time, a slightly larger number of women over men favor government regulation of online pornography, if such were possible.

Specifically, 57 percent of women believe "pornography is demeaning toward women" as compared to 38 percent of men. In addition, 47 percent of women and 33 percent of men believe porn "harms relationships between men and women."

The report said that while there was no unanimity regarding the impact of pornography on children, both men and women agreed the effects were mostly negative. Only 2 percent said "it helps kids better understand sexuality."

The report concludes by saying that males and females share a similar view regarding the regulation of Internet pornography for the sake of children, although there is still an obvious difference among the sexes. For example, 42 percent of those polled believe the government should "regulate Internet pornography specifically so that children cannot access X-rated material online." Broken down by sexes, 53 percent of women and 30 percent of men prefer such a policy.