USU professor takes aim at porn addiction

A psychology professor at the Utah State University is currently exploring new approaches towards porn addiction therapy. “It is shocking how little research there is,” said Michael Twohig. “There are a lot of questions that need to be answered.”

News of this project particularly caught my attention because of similarities with my own approach to porn addiction therapy: aligning clients’ actions with their personal values.

“It teaches you to appropriately respond to the urge to look at pornography,” Twohig said. “Then the urges don’t push you around as much, and it’s easier to move in the directions that are meaningful to you.”

In Twohig’s view, pornography is a problem when it “interferes with the quality of your life or your values.” It is up to the individual to decide if he has reached that point.

Also, if you are in the Utah locality and would like help with a pornography addiction, you can contact Professor Twohig to participate in his research and receive free therapy. Sessions are 1.5 hours per week for eight weeks. Clients fill out assessments at the beginning and end of treatment. Clients see only him and their information is not shared with anyone. In data analysis, clients are referred to by a number.

To reach Twohig, call 797-1402 or e-mail michael.twohig@usu.edu.

I'll be following the progress of Michael's work with great interest.