Shameless Sex

#368 Is Porn (and Sex) Addiction Real (Round Two)? - with Neuroscientist Dr. Nan Wise

Feb 13, 2024
Neuroscientist Dr. Nan Wise discusses sex and porn addiction, explaining what happens in the brain and offering healing modalities. Also, they explore alternative methods for sexual pleasure, inclusivity in the sex and disability market, and the impact of social connection on brain development. The speakers share personal stories about addiction and dependencies, including experiences with substances and porn. Finally, they discuss the transformative power of holding space for difficult emotions.
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INSIGHT

Addiction as Learning Gone Bad

  • Addiction can be understood as "learning gone bad" where brain reward systems malfunction.
  • People self-medicate through behaviors like sex or substances when their brain's reward circuitry is impaired.
INSIGHT

Sex and Porn Addiction Reality

  • Sex and porn addiction is real for some individuals but not the majority.
  • Most people can engage in these behaviors without them becoming problematic.
INSIGHT

Digital Impact on Young Brains

  • Modern digital environments hijack young brains' attention and disrupt normal social development.
  • This contributes to increased anxiety and compulsive sexual behaviors among university students.
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