That is a really great question. In writing this, know that I am presently recognized as an expert in assessment and treatment of youth with sexual behavior problems, therefore I am somewhat up to date on the current research in this area. Japan removed legal restrictions on pornography for minors, and the sex offense rate actually dropped. However, in my private practice I have worked with youth, usually pre-teen, who committed sexual offenses as a result of exposure to pornography. Therefore, the evidence is somewhat mixed., and therefore inconclusive, at this point.
One issue that i think is key is the idea of consent. Like taking an over-the-counter medication or consuming alcoholic beverages, consumption of pornography carries certain risks. The present state of knowledge is that we may now know all the risks. As an adult, I am expected to know those risks and make an informed decision for myself. I think the reason it is illegal for minors is the same reason that minors can't legally enter into contractual relationships.
Right now, the scientific evidence on this is very slim. Some researchers argue that pornography increases sexual energy and the increased sexual energy increases the risk of a person committing a sexual offense. Other researchers argue that it gives people a means of reducing their sexual energy and thereby reduces the chances they will act out sexually.
Scientifically, I don't think we have enough evidence to give a clear recommendation. About all the research has clearly demonstrated is that sex offenders like pornography. That does not prove that the pornography causes sex offenses. "Correlation does not prove causality." (Sophomore logic class). Sex offenders may simply have higher sex drives that contribute to both offenses and increased consumption of pornography. Until we have more evidence, I think it is wise that the decision to use pornography should remain an adult choice. If future evidence suggests that the risks associated with it are minimal for teens, then we as a society should re-examine the issue, the way we did in allowing minors to seek mental health services. The same way a minor can get pre-natal care or treatment for an STD is many states without parental consent. A year ago, I would have been adamant against allowing teens to purchase pornography, until the news of the Japanese study I mentioned earlier. My opinion is that we should leave the issue the way it is but open for discussion as further evidence comes in.
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