Conversations with Dr. Jennifer

We Need to Talk About Pornography

Oct 14, 2025
Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, a clinical psychologist specializing in sexuality and relationships, joins Lauren Yarrow to tackle the often taboo topic of pornography. They discuss how fear-based teachings contribute to sexual shame and conflict in relationships. Dr. Finlayson-Fife emphasizes that pornography is a symptom of deeper issues rather than a sole cause of problems. She advocates for open discussions about desire and offers insights on how to respond to children and partners regarding porn use, ultimately promoting honesty and intimacy.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ADVICE

Normalize Desire While Teaching Choices

  • Normalize sexual desire with children while teaching that choices matter.
  • Use the idea of wanting a meaningful life as the motivator rather than shame or fear.
INSIGHT

Labels Shape Solutions And Agency

  • Labels like "addiction" shape the chosen solutions and can reduce agency.
  • Framing compulsion instead helps illuminate patterns and restore personal responsibility.
ADVICE

Talk To The Part Of You That Seeks Porn

  • Examine the part of you that wants porn and ask what need it fills.
  • Name the costs and decide whether that short-term comfort is worth the long-term price.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app