Couple Recovery from Problematic Pornography Use: A Foundational Phenomenological Inquiry

Marriage and family therapists report problematic pornography use (PPU) as a common concern seen while working with couples and families. However, the research regarding treatment of PPU is limited, particularly relational/systemic treatment has been underexplored. The present study utilized a phenomenological approach to understand the lived experience of 11 heterosexual, married, highly religious, American couples who have achieved significant recovery from PPU. The major themes that emerged from the interviews are Catalysts for Recovery, Foundation of Support, The Work, Healing Perspectives, and Hindrances and Cautions. Examples of themes and subthemes are discussed as well as implications for treatment of couples seeking healing from PPU.