Men’s Development Network (MDN) have revealed interim results of its Men’s Attitudes Now (MAN) Survey.
MDN are marking 25 years of work in the sphere of male health, wellbeing, and transforming masculinities.
The survey has found that over a fifth of all respondents under the age of 55 use pornography at least once daily, whilst more than 70 per cent of men surveyed under the age of 45 report using pornography at least once a week.
For those aged 44 or younger the mean number who stated that pornography influenced their expectations of sex was 40.88 per cent.
The findings reveal that viewing pornography can often result in male insecurity, create unhealthy attitudes towards women and affect current and future relationships.
Survey respondents were given the option to provide additional comment when responding to whether pornography influenced their expectations of sex.
A respondent aged between 18 and 24 said: “I have difficulty telling if a partner enjoys sex, as the reaction is not as exaggerated as a performer, and this has led to both guilt and insecurity.”
A respondent aged between 25 and 34 said: “It’s led to me put pressure on my partner to try new things in the bedroom.”
Further interim results reveal that at least 10 per cent of respondents aged 18 to 54 believe that men should figure out their problems on their own without seeking help from others.
The first of its kind in Ireland, the survey intends to gain a better understanding of male concepts of masculinity and gender, and gather insights into how men feel about themselves and their role in Irish society, including their attitudes towards wellbeing, relationships, homophobia, pornography and wider social issues such as gender-based violence.
The survey remains open for response with further preliminary headline findings published at MDN’s upcoming online symposium, ‘New Conversations’, which takes place on July 28th.
The free online event will examine how men and boys can be positively engaged to be their most authentic selves and live happier, healthier lives.
