NCJ Number
100866
Date Published
1984
Length
351 pages
Annotation
Testimony, prepared statements, and supplemental materials examine the relationship between pornography and violence and sexual offenses against women and children.
Abstract
Senator Denton discusses the negative impact of pornography: that it degrades human sexuality, demeans women, and contributes to rape and child sexual abuse. Additional testimony focuses on investigation and prosecution of obscenity cases, the ready availability of obscene and pornographic materials, the frequent role of pornography in cases of child sexual abuse and of pornography in cases of child sexual abuse and abductions, and the factors motivating pedophiles and the types of pornographic materials that appeal to them. Several witnesses recount the role of pornography in incest and an abduction-murder. Also considered is how pornography affects attitudes and behaviors toward women. Research findings indicating the harmful effects of pornography are reviewed, and constitutional issues relating to the control of pornography are debated. Finally, recommendations are provided for legislative and educational initiatives.