Examining the feasibility of acceptance and commitment therapy self-help for problematic pornography viewing: Results from a pilot open trial

Michael E. Levin, Utah State University
Scott T. Heninger, Utah State University
Benjamin G. Pierce, Utah State University
Michael P. Twohig, Utah State University

Abstract

This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of an acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) self-help program for problematic pornography viewing (PV). A sample of 19 adults seeking help for problematic PV were recruited in an open trial. Participants reported adequate program acceptability, although only 45% of those completing post-assessment read at least half of the self-help book. Significant improvements on problematic PV and cognitive fusion were found over the 8-week intervention period, with effects sustaining at 8-week follow-up. Participants who read more improved more on PV problems and psychological inflexibility. Overall, an ACT self-help approach appears feasible and potentially efficacious for PV.