Did I Sin?

[DPoston15]

I recently watched a documentary about the effects that pornography has on those that are involved in the pornography industry and their lives afterwards. There were a few clips of nudity and other crude content that I felt was quite unnecessary. It go to the point that I turned my head during most of it but listened to the interviews. I almost turned it off but didn’t because I am genuinely interested in learning about how pornography effects people.

As someone that once struggled with pornography, I carry some scruples when it comes to being exposed to questionable content, even if unintentionally. I’m torn as to whether or not I should bring this to the Confession.

 

[SuperLuigi]

I think you will want to mention this to your confessor/spiritual director, which you should have if you have scruples.

The reason I say that is not because you definitively sinned (I personally do not think you did, unless it was your intention to be stimulated by this documentary) but because I think you need some guidance on the issue, especially since sexual content is so prevalent today.

My concern is that if you convince yourself you’re in a state of mortal sin, it’ll be that much easier to relapse.

I would say that this is not a sin and for pornography to be considered a sin you need to go out of your way a bit to see it.

 

[francisco2]

Hi.

In my humble opinion, you didn’t sin. Even more: you turned your head away. That’s very difficult! You only kept watching it because of a healthy interest to learn about it.
But if you’re concerned, talk to your confessor or your spiritual director. He can help you.
Blessings,

Francisco

 

[JamesTheJust]

I recently watched a documentary about the effects that pornography has on those that are involved in the pornography industry and their lives afterwards. There were a few clips of nudity and other crude content that I felt was quite unnecessary. It go to the point that I turned my head during most of it but listened to the interviews. I almost turned it off but didn’t because I am genuinely interested in learning about how pornography effects people.

As someone that once struggled with pornography, I carry some scruples when it comes to being exposed to questionable content, even if unintentionally. I’m torn as to whether or not I should bring this to the Confession.

If you have the opportunity, it’s a good idea to go to Confession weekly, just to get any possible sins or doubts of your chest. I would say that, as long as you did not intentionally seek out this content and didn’t lust after it or stimulate yourself with it, you’re in the clear. However, if unsure, I greatly encourage you to talk to your confessor. You should see him as a friend, one from whom you can get advice, support, answers, and most importantly, forgiveness.

 

[sirach2v4]

there’s a big difference between temptation and sin.

I think that a lot of television is below an acceptable level of decency, even some of the most popular and often-quoted late night TV. I simply turn it off. I don’t need to wait to see if it gets better. It usually doesn’t.

I have viewed pornography and find that it is degrading, dehumanizing, demeaning, and objectifies human beings beneath their dignity.