This briefing is the result of discussions and “think tank’’ events that brought together a number of individuals, academics and national organisations with an interest in sexual health and young people, organised by a working group consisting of Brook, the Centre for HIV and Sexual Health, FPA, and The National Youth Agency.
These discussions were prompted by increasing questions and concerns from youth workers, clinicians and other staff in contact with young people about a perceived increase in the nature and extent of pornography available to young people and reports from young people themselves of pressure to conform to sexual behaviours, attitudes and values seen within pornography.
The aim of this paper is NOT to give detailed guidance but rather to support workers to discuss the issue of pornography with young people within a clear context.