#101: Why Do Men Follow Instagram Models? with Dr. Laura McNally

Porn Influence

Dr. Laura McNally highlights the pervasive influence of pornography on societal attitudes and individual behaviors. She explains that exposure to pornographic imagery can lead to negative perceptions of women, affecting how they are viewed in terms of competence and equality 1. This exposure often results in a "she asked for it" attitude towards sexual harassment, impacting both men and women. McNally emphasizes that these attitudes are not innate but are shaped by the media we consume 1.

Unfortunately, all of this media does feed those negative aspects of the way we judge and treat women.

--- Dr. Laura McNally

She also discusses how pornography companies target young boys, influencing their perceptions and behaviors from an early age 2.

   

Arousal Effects

Sexual arousal significantly impacts cognitive function and decision-making, often leading to impaired judgment. Mark Groves and Dr. Laura McNally discuss how arousal can override executive functioning, making it difficult to resist distractions like sexual content online 3. This shift in focus is not due to a lack of intelligence but rather the brain's natural response to sexual stimuli. McNally notes that the instantaneous nature of the internet exacerbates this issue, as it provides constant access to arousing content without the buffer of time to regain control 3.

The sexual drive is so much stronger than the executive function.

--- Dr. Laura McNally

The unconscious influence of constant image consumption further complicates this, shaping beliefs and behaviors without conscious awareness 4.