If you find yourself online trolling through sex sites, you’re not alone. Studies show that “sex” is the most frequently searched word online, and many people who log on each day are visiting pornographic sites. For most it’s a harmless recreation.
However, a recent study published in the journal Professional Psychology found that those who spend 11 hours or more a week on Internet sex sites show clear signs of psychological distress, frequently admitting their online sex pursuits interfere with other aspects of their life. These folks also run the risk of dependence with an ever-increasing need for more time devoted to cyber sex.
As to the cheating aspect, in the eyes of at least some experts, having any type of sexual activity outside your relationship is wrong. Others take a more liberal view, believing that as long as your partner is not bothered by your cyber affairs, no harm is done. However, all experts agree that when cyber sex replaces or interferes with intimate human relationships, then it represents a problem much bigger than “cheating.” Also be aware that frequently cybersex escalates to “real” sex when one of the partners may push for a meeting.
Answered by
Ajay Chawla
, an ibibo Master,
at
3:10 PM on September 14, 2008