problematic pornographic categories

In this thought-provoking article, Sarah Castro MBE, Foundation and Safeguarding Lead at SafeToNet, takes us through the disturbing and often overlooked realities of problematic pornographic categories. Sarah brings vital insights into how certain genres—particularly those labeled “18+,” “Barely Legal,” “Young,” and “Teen”—are not just a matter of adult entertainment, but rather a dangerous reflection of broader cultural and psychological concerns. These categories blur the lines between legality and predation, normalising harmful fantasies and contributing to a troubling culture that commodifies youthfulness and innocence. Sarah’s expertise helps illuminate the far-reaching consequences of this issue, and the urgent need for society to confront and address it.

The “18+,” “Barely Legal,” “Young,” and “Teen” cluster of categories in pornography is one of the most concerning and destructive aspects of the adult entertainment industry. On the surface, it appears as just another cluster of genres catering to a specific niche. However, the implications go far beyond personal preferences. These problematic pornographic categories don’t just depict young adults; they fetishize the appearance and characteristics of minors, blurring the lines between legality and predation. They perpetuate harmful fantasies, normalize dangerous attractions, and indirectly encourage a culture that tolerates the exploitation and abuse of young people.

Take a deep breath as we dive into this eye-opening and deeply disturbing topic…

The Scale Of The Problem

As highlighted in a report from the Department of Computer Science at the University of Iowa, one estimate suggests there are at least 4 million adult websites on the Internet, which constitute approximately 12% of all websites.

There is no exact number publicly available detailing how many of the world’s pornography sites promote these problematic categories. Still, a significant percentage of adult websites focus on youth or youthful appearance, often framed with terms like “18+,” “Barely Legal,” “Young,” or “Teen,” catering to audiences interested in content portraying youthful-looking performers.

The Concerning Allure of Problematic Content

Media, advertising, and entertainment have long contributed to the premature sexualization of teenagers, but pornography takes this a step further. Upon visiting pornography websites, it’s nearly impossible to ignore the constant barrage of advertising banners promoting this particular content. These banners often feature young-looking models styled to appear even younger, emphasizing their innocence, lack of experience and inferred naivety. Phrases like “Fresh” and “Young” are common, creating an allure that taps into a deep and troubling fantasy: the sexualization of teenagers who are on the verge of adulthood, or at least appear to be.

This marketing strategy is deliberate and insidious. It draws attention to a category that might not have otherwise been considered by the consumer, and through aggressive marketing and targeted advertising, it ensures that these categories remain visible and enticing to consumers. The banners often feature young-looking models styled in school uniforms or in settings that evoke teenage life, such as a classroom or a bedroom filled with childhood decorations. The implication is clear: these young people are supposed to look like teenagers, even if they are technically of legal age.