Let's get real about porn
A resource for young people on the messages porn can send about gender and safety, how it can affect relationships and sex, when watching can become a problem, and better places to get info about sex.
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Hosted on https://www.kidshelpline.com.au/ • Opens in a new tab
Published on 2023
How this resource can help
Use this resource to
Understand the potential impacts of pornography on young people
Share with young people to help them think about pornography and its messages about sex, relationships, gender and safety
Support conversations with young people about their pornography use
Help promote healthy and safe messages about bodies, consent and sex
This resource covers
What porn is and reasons people might seek it out
Harmful messages porn can contain about gender, consent, respect and sexual safety
How porn can influence expectations about sex and relationships
Signs that watching porn may be becoming a problem
Where to get trustworthy information about sex
Open this resource
Hosted on https://www.kidshelpline.com.au/ • Opens in a new tab
If you are a young person
You’re in the right place! This is a guide written for you to help you better understand pornography and its potential impact, and when porn may be becoming a problem for you. If you’re worried about something specific, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Last reviewed by Together We Can: 26 October 2026
What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour
Problematic and harmful sexual behaviour affects children, families, and communities. Understanding it clearly is the first step toward effective prevention, recognition, and response.
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Parents and carers
If you’re a parent or carer seeking information or worrying about a behaviour, you're not alone. Find resources to help you understand child sexual development, support safety, and respond to concerns about sexual behaviour.
Children and young people
It’s normal to have questions about your body, feelings, sex and relationships. If you’re a young person looking for information – head here. We’ve got information just for you.