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WhatsOK hears from teens and young adults reaching for help, information and support for their concerns and questions about safe sexual behaviors, feelings and thoughts. Sometimes their questions are about their own situation, like wondering if something they did or think about is “normal” or even legal. Other times, they ask how to help a friend or how to talk about something that happened to them, like being sexually abused.
This blog shares answers to common questions and some real questions and experiences from teens and young adults who have reached out. Everything here is shared with permission, and all names have been changed for anonymity.
Everyone’s situation is unique, and everyone deserves respect and accurate information for their personal situation. If you have questions about something you’ve experienced or something you’re thinking or feeling about sexual interests and behaviors, reach out to our free, confidential helpline.
How will I know when my porn use has become a problem?
Like with so many things, defining a “problem” is really personal. So the best way to determine whether something is a problem for you is to ask yourself a few questions. Here’s how we help people navigate this issue.
I can’t stop watching CSAM! What is wrong with me?
People watch CSAM for different reasons. Like with most things in life, it’s complicated. And not everyone who views CSAM is necessarily sexually attracted to children, although some are. Here are a few of the reasons people tell us they have watched it.
Wondering about sexual thoughts involving younger children
If you are concerned about your sexual thoughts and behaviors towards significantly younger children, we encourage you to answer these questions honestly.
“I feel disgusting after watching cartoon images of children having sex.”
Many people have done something that later they regret and worry that what they did will forever affect them. It's a good thing to think about the things we’ve done, to reflect on our behaviors – both what we’re doing today and what we’ve done in the past. We can learn and grow by the mistakes we made, right?
Am I a monster?
It is way easier to try to move on and ignore it. But that isn’t the way to making sure it doesn’t happen again. And actually, ignoring something can make it worse later on as I’m sure many of you know.
