Pornography use is widespread in the United States and across the world. Some individuals report problematic pornography use (PPU), which is characterized by dysregulation and negative consequences of use. The limitations of existing PPU screening tools make it difficult to reliably investigate the extent and associations of PPU. Furthermore, mechanisms underlying potential associations between PPU and psychological distress have been insufficiently examined. To meet these research gaps, I conducted three subsequent studies: In Study 1 (scoping review), I examined the existing body of research on the Brief Pornography Screen (BPS) - a new and promising cross-classification screening tool for PPU. In Study 2 (cross-sectional study), I examined the status quo of PPU and psychological distress associations in the United States. In Study 3 (longitudinal study), I examined longitudinal associations between PPU and psychological distress in the United States. The existing body of research supports the validity and the reliability of the BPS. Furthermore, PPU seems to be a common phenomenon in the United States, particularly among young men. It appears to be consistently associated with frequency of pornography use and the experience of psychological distress. Across 6-months-intervals, the psychological distress association appears to be robust and trait-like rather than being determined by fluctuations across the waves. This dissertation contributes to the scientific progress by synthesizing the evidence on the statistical properties of the BPS, while highlighting its ability to differentiate between clinical and non-clinical individuals. It also provides important insights into PPU in the United States and its associations with psychological distress. Associations of PPU with younger age may also inform clinicians and legislators.     «

Pornography use is widespread in the United States and across the world. Some individuals report problematic pornography use (PPU), which is characterized by dysregulation and negative consequences of use. The limitations of existing PPU screening tools make it difficult to reliably investigate the extent and associations of PPU. Furthermore, mechanisms underlying potential associations between PPU and psychological distress have been insufficiently examined. To meet these research gaps, I condu...     »