There is an expression that has recently become a part of our vernacular that I like — “I can’t unsee that!” If it were around then, I imagine it would have been used in this classic Seinfeld episode where Elaine starts off the dancing at a wedding reception. I can just hear George saying “I can’t unsee that” instead of “Sweet Fancy Moses”.
Sadly, the same can be said when a child or teen is exposed to pornographic images. Their brain retains those images in a psychopharmacological way where they can actually bring them to mind decades later. (Works and studies by James L. McGaugh and Patrick Carnes.) As if it weren’t enough that the images would frighten and confuse them, this literal mind-altering effect makes it even easier for kids to develop a problem with pornography. Prevention is vitally important when giving kids access to internet connected devices. Educate yourself through our resources on this website, our twitter feed and the many other organizations we reference who try to help families benefit from the wonderful things the internet offers but stay protected from the dangers because they cannot unsee them.
If your child has already been exposed to pornography, please do not lose heart. Here are some resources from PornHarms that can help.
Isaiah 40:11 – He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.