No More Desire ™ Porn Addiction Recovery

120: Male Sexual Abuse, Shame, and Porn Addiction: A Recovery Roadmap with Dr. Doug Carpenter

Nov 19, 2025
Dr. Doug Carpenter, a licensed clinical psychologist and author of *Secret Shame*, sheds light on the often hidden connections between male sexual abuse, shame, and porn addiction. He discusses the prevalence of male trauma and its underreporting, emphasizing that many men struggle in silence. Doug shares his own experiences and how early exposure can wire the brain for compulsivity. The conversation further explores the impacts of shame on masculinity, suggests trauma-informed healing practices, and reframes myths that hinder recovery.
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INSIGHT

Shame Reshapes Male Identity

  • Male sexual abuse often becomes toxic shame because victims interpret the event as proof they are bad people.
  • Doug Carpenter says this shame reshapes identity and undermines masculinity.
ANECDOTE

Personal Story Of Early Exposure

  • Doug Carpenter recounts being exposed to sexual behavior at five and later abused by a peer who showed him pornography.
  • The first abuse produced his first orgasm and launched compulsive masturbation and years of self-blame.
INSIGHT

Early Exposure Flips A Sexual Switch

  • Early sexual exposure flips a developmental switch, making sexual curiosity and preoccupation dominate a child's life.
  • Carpenter warns this imprinting changes attention, play, and social behavior long-term.
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