YouTube's popularity has surged in recent years due to its availability and ease of access. As such, more people are consuming digital media than ever before. It is important to note that this digital media, including YouTube, can have an impact on viewers' understanding of sexual scripts, desires, and expectations. Specifically, some research suggests that YouTube erotica can shape these concepts in ways that may be problematic for viewers. This paper will explore how YouTube's sexual content influences unconscious sexual scripts, relational expectations, and patterns of desire.
Sexual Scripts
Sexual scripts refer to socially constructed ideas about appropriate and acceptable sexual behavior, which vary across cultures and subcultures. They influence individuals' perceptions and actions regarding romance, dating, and sexual encounters. According to Dittmar and Kite (2018), sexual scripts operate at three levels: normative, scriptive, and non-normative. Normative sexual scripts outline what is generally considered 'normal', such as heterosexual relationships or monogamy. These scripts are often unspoken but widely held by society. Scriptive sexual scripts involve specific behaviors and strategies for achieving certain outcomes, such as getting a partner to agree to a particular act. Non-normative sexual scripts include behaviors deemed deviant or taboo.
Relational Expectations
Relational expectations refer to the set of beliefs and assumptions one holds about their relationship with others. These expectations are shaped by various factors, including personal experiences, socialization, and cultural contexts. Research suggests that viewing pornography can alter relational expectations, particularly those related to power dynamics between partners.
Godek et al. (2016) found that viewing violent pornography increased men's likelihood of endorsing domination-based sexual scripts. Similarly, Barker and Galovan (2019) discovered that viewing pornography led to an increase in men's desire for more permissive sexual behavior.
Patterns of Desire
Patterns of desire refer to individual differences in sexual arousal and satisfaction. Research has identified several patterns, including spontaneous desire (e.g., aroused by novelty) and responsive desire (e.g., aroused by familiar stimuli). A person's pattern of desire influences their response to sexual stimuli and their overall enjoyment of sex. Some studies suggest that YouTube erotica may shift individuals' desires away from their natural inclinations.
Researchers have found that exposure to Internet pornography is associated with decreased interest in long-term relationships and increased acceptance of casual sex (Blair & Baumeister, 2014; Jensen & Skjølsvik, 2018). This may be due to a combination of repetitive exposure and the presence of unrealistic or idealized content on YouTube.
YouTube's popularity presents unique challenges regarding its influence on users' sexual scripts, relational expectations, and patterns of desire. Further research should explore how these effects vary across cultures, genders, and age groups. By understanding the potential impacts of online media, we can develop strategies to promote healthy sexual development and positive relationships.
How does YouTube erotic content influence unconscious sexual scripts, relational expectations, and patterns of desire?
While some individuals may be drawn to particular types of erotic content on YouTube, it is difficult to say whether this exposure has any significant impact on their subconscious desires, relationship expectations, or romantic behavior. It is important for people to remain mindful of their personal preferences and boundaries when consuming any form of media.