Is the addiction model effective for eliminating corn viewing and massurbation? #lds #mormon

Examining the Addiction Model for Addressing Corn Viewing and Masturbation in Mormonism

In the world of Mormon teachings, the push to eliminate behaviors such as pornography viewing and masturbation is not just a moral objective but a spiritual mandate. The addiction model, which views these behaviors as addictions that can be treated similarly to substance abuse, has increasingly been promoted by various religious communities, including the LDS Church. But how effective is this model in truly helping individuals overcome these so-called addictions? According to the Mormon Stories Podcast, there is no empirical evidence supporting the success of the addiction model in reducing or eliminating such behaviors. In other words, zero studies show its effectiveness in this context. This leaves members and scholars to question whether the addiction model is more doctrine than science.

Historical Context: The Adoption of the Addiction Model in LDS Teachings

The term "addiction" is not just a medical diagnosis in the LDS community; it's become a moral scarlet letter. Historically, the church has always advocated for strict personal conduct, with clear guidelines laid out in documents such as the "For the Strength of Youth" pamphlet. However, the modern framing of pornography use and masturbation as addictions reflects a shift that coincided with the rising discussions about addictions in the broader cultural and psychological landscapes. While the broader medical community defines addiction primarily through physical and psychological dependency, the LDS Church has extended its definition to include certain behaviors it considers spiritually detrimental.

The embrace of addiction recovery groups within the church, such as the LDS Addiction Recovery Program, further promotes the idea that behavioral issues can be addressed using strategies similar to those for substance abuse. Developed by adapting existing Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) frameworks, these church-sponsored programs aim to assist members grappling with undesirable behaviors. But do they actually bring about long-term change or foster a cycle of guilt and repentance without resolution?

Core Arguments Against the Addiction Model's Effectiveness