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Sarah Ogier-Bloomer, Psy.D., is a 2021 graduate of the Psy.D. Program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, New England

Dissertation Committee:

  • Katherine Evarts Rice, PsyD, Committee Chair
  • Gina Pasquale, PsyD, Committee Member
  • Elizabeth Manley, PsyD, Committee Member

Keywords

pornography, addiction, emotion focused, Gottman method, couples therapy

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2021

Abstract

The following dissertation provides a thorough literature review of internet pornography and internet pornography addiction for psychologists treating heterosexual couples in therapy and those training said clinicians. Factors that contribute to the development of compulsive sexual behavior are discussed, as well as how the addiction is maintained through reinforcing cycles. Factors including neuropsychological effects of neurotransmitters on the pleasure-reward system, insecure attachment, and childhood development provide insight into the manifestation of an addiction to pornography. Therefore, a thorough literature review on these aspects is necessary for current clinicians, as well as for those who are training clinicians. In addition, questionnaires that can aid clinicians in the assessment of couples in treatment will be addressed, followed by issues of clinical attention to be incorporated in the initial assessment process. Last, Emotion Focused Therapy and Gottman Method Couples Therapy will be explored as methods for treatment of couples with a partner who has an addiction to pornography.

Comments

Sarah Ogier-Bloomer

ORCID Scholar ID# 0000-0002-6427-6650

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