The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast: Episode 1KHO 452 – The New Drug: What Every Parent Needs to Know About Pornography

Host: Jenny Eric
Guest: Parker Hymas, Director of Public Outreach at Fight the New Drug
Release Date: March 28, 2025

Introduction

In this pivotal episode of The 1000 Hours Outside podcast, host Jenny Eric delves into the critical issue of pornography with Parker Hymas from Fight the New Drug. The conversation centers on the pervasive impact of pornography on children, relationships, and society at large, emphasizing the urgent need for informed parental guidance and open discussions.

Understanding Fight the New Drug

Parker Hymas provides an overview of Fight the New Drug, clarifying its non-religious and non-legislative stance. The organization focuses on educating individuals about the harms of pornography through science, facts, and personal narratives.

Parker Hymas [02:16]: “We're a non-religious, non-legislative nonprofit that exists to allow individuals the opportunity to make an informed decision on the topic of porn by raising awareness on its harmful effects using only science, facts, and personal accounts.”

The Evolution and Accessibility of Pornography

Parker explains how technological advancements have drastically increased the accessibility and availability of pornography, transforming it into a supernormal stimulus that exacerbates its impact on the brain and behavior.

Parker Hymas [03:20]: “Pornography became more affordable, accessible, available, and anonymous than ever before in the history of the world.”

He highlights that unlike the discreet and limited exposure of past decades, today’s digital landscape ensures that pornography is almost inevitably encountered by young individuals.

Alarming Statistics on Youth Exposure

The discussion reveals disturbing statistics regarding the exposure of children to pornography. Multiple studies indicate that:

• The majority of children are exposed to pornography by age 13.
• Some children encounter it as early as seven years old.
• 75% of parents believe their child has never seen pornography, yet 53% of those children have reported exposure.

Parker Hymas [05:57]: “About 75% of 14 to 18-year-old males and about 70% of 14 to 18-year-old females have been exposed to pornography.”

Impact on the Brain: Supernormal Stimuli

The podcast explores the concept of supernormal stimuli—extreme versions of natural stimuli that the brain prefers, leading to unhealthy habits. Parker relates this to pornography, explaining how exaggerated and often violent content can desensitize individuals and skew their perceptions of real-life relationships.

Parker Hymas [22:55]: “Many researchers today consider porn to be a supernormal stimulus. Because of that, the very nature of the material has changed... it's just as fake and exaggerated as those cardboard butterflies.”

He discusses how excessive consumption weakens the prefrontal cortex’s ability to regulate desires, potentially leading to compulsive behaviors or addiction.

Parker Hymas [26:50]: “When people consume porn, it can weaken the relationship between the reward system and the prefrontal cortex, meaning the reward system can begin to run kind of unchecked.”

Effects on Relationships and Society

Parker emphasizes the detrimental effects of pornography on personal relationships and societal norms. Research indicates that pornography consumption correlates with:

• Lower relationship satisfaction.
• Increased acceptance of infidelity.
• Greater likelihood of divorce.
• Objectification of partners, leading to unhealthy relationship dynamics.

Parker Hymas [31:24]: “Most of the research is demonstrating how porn impacts the relationships over time. To my knowledge, there hasn't been a single longitudinal study that has shown that porn has a positive impact on relationships over time. It's always a negative outcome.”

He also links pornography to broader societal issues like sex trafficking, highlighting stories where exploitation and coercion are rampant within the industry.

AI and Modern Challenges

The conversation shifts to the rise of AI in relationships and content creation, discussing potential future impacts on young individuals' ability to form genuine relationships.

Jenny Eric [41:50]: “If a child, let's say a 14-year-old has an experience with the perfect looking AI girlfriend, will they be able to ever have a normal relationship that has all sorts of idiosyncrasies?”

While acknowledging the current lack of extensive research, Parker shares anecdotal evidence of individuals developing severe social anxiety and financial burdens due to AI-driven interactions.

Preventative Measures and Resources

Fight the New Drug advocates for proactive measures, primarily through education and open dialogue between parents and children. Parker introduces their "Conversation Blueprint," a resource designed to help parents initiate and sustain age-appropriate conversations about pornography.

Parker Hymas [08:43]: “We want to open up conversations. We want parents to acknowledge that even though it's scary, we have to acknowledge that kids are growing up in a world now where it's no longer if my kid will be exposed, it's incredibly likely that it is.”

Additionally, Fight the New Drug offers live presentations, educational materials, and support resources tailored to various demographics, including college students, parents, and young individuals.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Jenny Eric commends Fight the New Drug for its impactful work and encourages listeners to utilize their resources. Parker reiterates the importance of informed decision-making and collective effort in mitigating the adverse effects of pornography.

Jenny Eric [62:55]: “Fight the new drug, you have the best resources I've seen. It's a great entry point for families looking to talk to their kids more about this and needing resources.”

Memories from the Outdoors

As per the podcast's tradition, Parker shares a cherished memory of outdoor adventures, underscoring the podcast's overarching theme of valuing time spent away from screens and fostering genuine experiences.

Parker Hymas [60:18]: “One favorite memory I have outside is when I was with a Boy Scout troop, and we took a risky shortcut down a snow slope. It was thrilling and ended safely, but it left me with unforgettable memories.”

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Parker Hymas [02:16]: “We're a non-religious, non-legislative nonprofit that exists to allow individuals the opportunity to make an informed decision on the topic of porn by raising awareness on its harmful effects using only science, facts, and personal accounts.”

• Parker Hymas [05:57]: “About 75% of 14 to 18-year-old males and about 70% of 14 to 18-year-old females have been exposed to pornography.”

• Parker Hymas [22:55]: “Many researchers today consider porn to be a supernormal stimulus. Because of that, the very nature of the material has changed... it's just as fake and exaggerated as those cardboard butterflies.”

• Parker Hymas [26:50]: “When people consume porn, it can weaken the relationship between the reward system and the prefrontal cortex, meaning the reward system can begin to run kind of unchecked.”

• Parker Hymas [31:24]: “Most of the research is demonstrating how porn impacts the relationships over time. To my knowledge, there hasn't been a single longitudinal study that has shown that porn has a positive impact on relationships over time. It's always a negative outcome.”

• Jenny Eric [62:55]: “Fight the new drug, you have the best resources I've seen. It's a great entry point for families looking to talk to their kids more about this and needing resources.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Fight the New Drug: fightthenewdrug.org
• Live Presentations: fightthenewdrug.org/live
• Conversation Blueprint: Available on Fight the New Drug’s website for parents and individuals seeking guidance.

Final Thoughts

This episode of The 1000 Hours Outside underscores the urgent need for awareness and proactive measures to combat the pervasive influence of pornography. By leveraging education, open conversations, and community support, Fight the New Drug aims to mitigate the adverse effects on individuals and society, fostering healthier relationships and empowered youth.