Tucker Carlson Sounds Alarm on Porn Addiction Dangers
Published:
Jan 20, 2026
,
06:52 p.m.
ET
Concerns about addiction in today’s age are no longer limited to substances like drugs or alcohol. Increasingly, public attention is being drawn to behavioral addictions that thrive online, particularly around pornography and gambling. These issues are often discussed in cultural or political terms, but at their core they are mental health challenges with real consequences.
Political commentator Tucker Carlson recently argued that porn addiction represents a serious and underrecognized threat to American well-being, pointing to its effects on motivation and personal agency. His comments have reignited public discussion about the psychological and social costs of compulsive pornography use.
Carlson’s warning about Porn Addiction in America
During a podcast interview with Bryce Crawford, Carlson described internet pornography as a damaging force standing in the way of modern American life. Carlson emphasized that porn addiction weakens individuals from the inside out by undermining intimacy and fostering isolation rather than connection.
Carlson argued that excessive porn use is a systemic issue run by profit-driven platforms and amplified by technology and anonymity. With intentionally provocative rhetoric, he pointed to increasingly extreme content and fetishization as signs of escalation, saying repeated exposure can alter expectations around relationships and self-worth.
Rather than framing the issue as a partisan or ideological debate, Carlson stressed that addiction reflects deeper internal struggles. Addiction thrives when shame and normalization prevent people from recognizing harmful patterns early or seeking help before consequences escalate.
The rise of Porn Addiction in America: Stats & Trends
Data supports the idea that porn addiction is both widespread and growing. Estimates suggest that between 3-11% of Americans struggle with compulsive pornography use, depending on the study and definition. While porn addiction is not formally classified in the DSM-5, the World Health Organization recognizes “compulsive sexual behavior disorder,” including uncontrolled porn use.
Men report higher rates of porn consumption than women, with nearly 70% of men reporting use, compared to about 40% of women. Young adults ages 18 to 34 represent the largest demographic of users, and early exposure is common. Studies indicate that the average first exposure to porn occurs between ages 9 and 13.
Smartphones serve as the primary access point, as nearly all pornography is consumed online. Constant availability activates the brain’s reward system in ways similar to substances, reinforcing compulsive behavior. Over time, individuals may need more frequent or extreme content to achieve the same effect, increasing distress, shame and interference with daily life.
Sports betting and gambling also major dangers in U.S. per Carlson
Alongside journalist Saagar Enjeti, Carlson has repeatedly warned about legalized mobile sports betting as another rapidly expanding threat, particularly for young men. In their discussions, Carlson and Enjeti argue that modern gambling apps are engineered to maximize engagement and losses rather than entertainment.
Research cited by Enjeti suggests that a very small percentage of users, those with gambling problems, generate nearly half of sportsbook revenue. These individuals are frequently targeted with VIP programs and constant outreach, while successful or disciplined bettors are restricted. Like other addictions, profitability depends on compulsive use rather than casual participation.
Carlson and Enjeti have also pointed to rising financial and emotional stress and relationship conflict linked to problem gambling. Like porn addiction, gambling addiction is fueled by frictionless access and aggressive marketing within digital culture.
Treatment for Porn Addiction and Problem Gambling in U.S.
Warning labels and self-exclusion tools tend to fall short for individuals with entrenched compulsive behaviors. Porn addiction and problem gambling frequently co-occur with each other and additional mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.
Identifying psychological drivers, developing healthier coping strategies and rebuilding accountability are crucial to effective treatment. Birches Health provides specialized, virtual treatment for both porn addiction and gambling addiction across the United States. Care is delivered by licensed clinicians with specific training in behavioral addictions, using evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. Treatment options include individual counseling and clinician-led group therapy, which offers structured support and professional guidance.
Most Birches Health services are covered by insurance, as the organization partners with major providers to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Online care also removes logistical barriers, allowing individuals to access treatment privately from home without travel or scheduling disruptions.
You can learn more or get started with Birches Health today:
Call 833-483-3838
Email help@bircheshealth.com
