Pornography Consumption Among Young People: An Assessment of Parents’ and Teachers’ Training Needs

Abstract

Introduction In Spain and Italy, it is estimated that childrens’ frst contact with pornography can occur before the age of 10 years. Minors in this position lack the emotional tools necessary to analyze pornographic content critically. However, many adolescents do not discuss issues related to sexuality with their parents or teachers because they feel embarrassed or perceive those fgures as insufciently knowledgeable. This study analyzed the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of parents and teachers regarding young people’s internet usage and pornography consumption and their preparedness to discuss sexuality and pornography with their children or pupils. Methods The participants (N=142) included 74 parents (52.1%) and 68 teachers (47.9%) who were from Spain (51.7%) or Italy (48.3%). Two ad hoc questionnaires were used in this research. Results Compared to parents, teachers attributed higher levels of pornography consumption to young people. Parents and teachers expressed similar views regarding the adverse efects of pornography consumption. Discussing pornography with children was identifed as challenging by parents (more than 1/3 of whom had never discussed this topic) and especially by teachers (half of whom had never discussed this issue). Few parents and teachers had received training in these issues; this lack was especially notable among Italian teachers. Conclusions These results highlight the need to increase the training provided to parents and teachers in these areas to improve children’s satisfaction with sexuality education programs. Policy Implications It is necessary to develop child-focused sexuality education programs that involve parents and teachers and range beyond an adult-centered agenda.