Relieving Withdrawal Pangs
As I explained earlier, PMOers think they do it for enjoyment, relaxation or some sort of education. In fact, this an illusion. The actual reason is the relief of withdrawal pangs. In the early days we use the porn as a curious and novel thing or even educational or as a rebel. We can take it or leave it. However, the subtle chain has started. Our subconscious mind begins to learn that internet porn and masturbation taken at certain times tends to be pleasurable. The more we become hooked on the drug, the greater the need to relieve the withdrawal pangs and the further the PMO drags you down and the more you are fooled into believing it is doing the opposite. It all happens so slowly, so gradually, you are not even aware of it. Each day you feel no different from the day before. Most young PMOers don’t even realize they are hooked until they actually try to stop and even then many won’t admit to it. A few stalwarts just keep their heads in the sand all their lives,trying to convince themselves and other people that they enjoy it.
Listen to this conversation a therapist had with hundreds of teenagers.
TH: “You realize that internet porn is a drug and that the only reason why you are using is that you cannot stop.”
PA: “Nonsense! I enjoy it. If I didn’t, I would stop.”
TH: “Just stop for a week to prove to me you can if you want to.”
PA: “No need. I enjoy it. If I wanted to stop, I would.”
TH: “Just stop for a week to prove to yourself you are not hooked.”
PA: “What’s the point? I enjoy it.”
As already stated, PMOers tend to relieve their withdrawal pangs at times of stress, boredom, concentration, relaxation or a combination of these. This point is explained in greater detail in the next few chapters.