There is a lot of great information under the Help, A Loved One is Viewing Pornography, which is especially for parents. First, review this information and remember to stay calm and do not over-react. Your child’s attitude and openness is going to be influenced by their ability to trust and confide in you. An over-reaction will likely cause them to be more secretive down the road. If they sense that you understand and still love them they will be more likely to communicate with you and allow you to be a part of their life.
Do not be afraid to be honest and open in your discussions. Make sure your children understand that you love them and want them to be happy. Help them understand what pornography is, why it can be damaging and why their viewing pornography concerns you. If your child is regularly viewing pornography, make sure that they get help. Do not underestimate how addictive pornography can be and how difficult to stop, even for young children. Below are important actions in the recovery process.
Talk to Someone: Your child cannot stop without help. They need your help and the help of others. As a parent, it is also important to talk to other trusted individuals and get help
Become Educated: As you learn more about pornography addiction, how it impacts your child and the recovery process you will be better equipped to help your child change.
Set Boundaries: As you learn more about pornography addiction, how it impacts your child and the recovery process you will be better equipped to help your child change.
Get Therapy: Therapists can help your child identify underlying problems causing them to view pornography. Therapy may also help you as you work through difficulties.
Read What’s the Big Deal About Pornography by Jill Manning. This book gives you clear, easy answers so you can lead the discussions with your child with confidence.
12-Step Addiction Recovery groups: generally, people under the age of 18 don’t attend 12-Step recovery groups. But, as a parent, you can become familiar with the 12-step recovery outlines used in Sexaholics Anonymous and share them with your child. The majority of people who have found long term recovery from addiction have been greatly helped by following a 12-step recovery program.
There is a touching story, written by the mother about her teenage son and his struggle with pornography, in the Parents section in the Help a Loved One is Using Pornography tab.