The STOPLight

Different dynamics: Girls & pornography

A new generation of pornography users has arrived -- and they are women.

I am a first year student at a predominantly Catholic women's college. Since there aren't many men around, girls here have quite a bit of pent up sexual tension -- and their outlet is often pornography. I have seen more posters of scantily-clad women hanging in the rooms of eighteen-year-old girls on campus than in even the most insensitive fraternity house.

My best friend has a keen fascination with the "sex goddess" Bettie Page. She has the t-shirts, postcards, books, pin-ups, magnets, jewelry, etc. When I asked her why the obsession, she responded, "Bettie Page is real! She is proud of her body, and not afraid to show it, even if she is a size twelve." She says responses are overwhelmingly positive -- especially from women -- when she displays the silk-screened Bettie Page on her chest. I was very surprised at how she can casually wear pornographic t-shirts in public and still consider herself a feminist.

Pornography is a hot topic on campus. It comes up in casual conversation, class lectures, and student activities. A recent campus forum called "Sex in the Dark" was sponsored by a student group that promotes awareness for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community. At the forum there was much discussion about the pornography issue. "Can a woman still be a feminist and look at porn? Can a Christian look at pornography and not feel guilty? Can a female enjoy pornography depicting women and still be straight?" I was amazed how many young college women think pornography is a natural, artistic expression. During the discussion I tried to introduce the concept that the women in those pictures are victims. I have the ridiculous notion that it is wrong to photograph anyone who has sacrificed his or her human dignity.

Another friend and I discussed the ramifications that her beliefs as a Catholic have on her love of pornography. I feel she has failed to understand my viewpoint that pornography is demeaning -- especially to women -- and her actions are encouraging the sex industry to produce more smut. She rationalizes her behavior with "it's my business and I'm not hurting anyone." I told her I did not think that attitude was going to save any woman from being victimized. Unfortunately, she had no further comment.

What can be done to keep this trend from expanding? Education, more open communication about sexuality, tougher pornography laws, and regulation of Internet content are all good solutions -- Band Aids for the pornography epidemic. I think the best way to combat the problem is to not buy it, and set a precedent to others that it is not okay. It may sound simplistic, but if pornography does not have a paying audience, maybe it will no longer be produced.

by Jill Carlson