The Porn Circuit | Covenant Eyes Internet Accountability and Filtering

eleased in men throughout the day,
but when sexual cues are picked
up by the brain the testes increase
production.
That’s why castration is used to remove
sexual drive in eunuchs and sex
offenders, explains Struthers.
CHapter 2: Your Brain’s Sexual Cocktail
Pornography (and the mental
fantasizing that it enables) crafts
a brain that constantly generates
testosterone and heightens sexual
desire. With this ever-present sexual
desire, the brain is ready to interpret
any signal (external or internal) and
ramp up the perceived need for sexual activity. Interestingly, men with strong feelings of
commitment to their spouse tend to have lower testosterone levels. This may be a reason why
these men may be less likely to commit adultery. 4
H H
O
Because testosterone is slow to dissipate, men who habitually view pornography cause their
own chemical imbalance. This high testosterone level increases their sexual awareness far
above normal. Sexual fantasies are sparked by everyday objects and even modestly dressed
women are seen as provocative.
Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter
often associated with stress and the
fight-or-flight response, helping us to be
more alert. It also acts as a hormone for
sexual arousal and sexual memory, and
it helps us burn emotional experiences
in our minds. Whether it’s a wonderful
sexual experience with our spouse
or a provocative sexual image, the
information is stored for easy recall with
the help of norepinephrine.
Oxytocin
Testosterone
Norepinephrine
HO
HO
Oxytocin is often referred to as the bonding hormone, and big releases arrive when mothers
and fathers hold their newborn babies. It is often called the cuddle hormone because oxytocin
levels rise when a couple snuggles, hold hands, or express other forms of intimacy. Oxytocin is
one reason a kiss is so powerful.
The Porn Circuit | 11
H
OH
OH
NH 2