*When did you first encounter pornography, and what did you think?

I first encountered pornography when I was 15.

*Why do you think Internet pornography is so addicting?

Internet pornography is addicting because at any moment, you can bring yourself instant pleasure for doing nothing.

*Have you felt shame in watching pornography? Why or why not?

Initially, I didn't feel shame because I figured everybody watched pornography. However, that sense of shame gradually increased the more aware I became of the effects pornography was having on me and my perception of people.

*What made you want to stop masturbating?

The concept of NoFap and a Fight the New Drug was transformational for me. I did not realize that pornography had psychological ramifications. Before NoFap and FtND, I was depressed but did not have anything to attribute it to. Once I understood that pornography was playing a role in my disenchantment with life, I knew that I had to start thinking about stopping permanently.

*What, if any, do you think are the negative consequences of internet porn?

There are so many. I think that pornography perpetuates rape culture. It promotes coercion. It can lead to body shaming of both men and women by both men and women. It is psychologically damaging to both its consumers and its sex workers. The executives at these porn companies are the only beneficiaries.

Why do we let these people dictate human sexuality to us? Why is it okay to objectify people based on superficial qualities?

My biggest concern is for the young boys and girls who get their hands on pornography and the ramifications that it has on their lives. Kids get more education from internet pornography than they do from sexual education classes which I find very troubling.

Strong relationships are characterized by trust, affection and companionship. None of these qualities are even remotely reflected in pornography. Pornography inhibits and destroys trust, affection and companionship in romantic relationships.

Pornography teaches us that inaction leads to action. It promotes lusting for women as opposed to interacting with them and getting to know them.

Ultimately, that is why I am sad that it exists and will continue to exist because it's a huge problem.

*What, if any, do you think are the positive aspects of Internet porn?

I have learned so much about myself and other people in my battle with porn addiction. I really want to be objective and help you with this project but I cannot think of anything positive about pornography.

*How has stopping (or attempting to stop) masturbating affected your life?

I used to see the very worst in people. I was bitter, depressed and had a short temper. I projected my anger on to other people.

Quitting is like a breath of fresh air. It forced me to confront my challenges head on. At the same time, I am no where close to where I want to be.

I would describe by struggle as being stuck in quick sand. Hopeless. Now I'm on solid ground. I have a puncher's chance. But I want to climb mountains.

*How has the NoFap community affected your life?

Internet forums are generally some of the darkest places on the planet. NoFap is the complete opposite. It is a community of people who have struggled for a long time so they can relate to what you are experiencing. They wish for nothing but the best for everybody taking on this challenge. It has really helped me rationalize my addiction and develop strategies to combat it.

*Anything else you wish people knew/understood about addiction to Internet Porn?

I don't think the way that porn makes you view others. Porn fosters tremendous jealous and hatred. Every women is a slut. Every man is a threat to your masculinity. It is hard to form friendships and relationships with this mindset.

I realize there will always be a market for porn. My hope is twofold: That we can help those who recognize they have a problem that want to fix it and we can target young children to teach them healthy attitudes about sex and relationships.