Mormon Pornography & LDS Faith: A Therapist’s Perspective

If you’ve searched “Mormon pornography,” you’re likely looking for answers—not judgment. Whether you’re a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints struggling with pornography use, a spouse who just discovered your partner’s secret, or a couple trying to find a way forward, this page is for you.

I’m Daniel Burgess, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Utah. I specialize in helping LDS individuals and couples navigate pornography, shame, and intimacy in ways that are grounded in both clinical research and deep respect for Latter-day Saint faith and values.

Why Pornography Is Different in LDS Culture

For members of the LDS Church, pornography use is not just a behavioral or relationship issue—it carries enormous spiritual weight. The Church’s strong stance against pornography, combined with LDS teachings on sexual purity, means that pornography use is often experienced as a profound moral failure rather than a struggle with behavior.

This shame-based framing, while well-intentioned, often makes things worse. Research consistently shows that shame is the least effective motivator for lasting behavioral change. In fact, shame typically drives pornography use deeper underground—increasing secrecy, disconnection, and relapse cycles.

What Research Actually Says About Mormon Pornography Problems

The research on pornography in religious communities, including LDS communities, reveals something important: the distress caused by pornography use in Mormon culture is largely driven by moral incongruence—the conflict between one’s values and behavior—rather than the amount of pornography viewed.

Studies show that LDS individuals who view pornography report higher levels of distress than non-religious individuals who view the same content—not because the content is inherently more damaging, but because the violation of deeply held spiritual values creates profound psychological conflict. This is why treatment approaches that ignore the spiritual dimension almost never work for LDS individuals.

How I Help LDS Individuals and Couples with Pornography

My approach is informed by both the clinical literature and a genuine understanding of LDS culture. I don’t pathologize pornography use or dismiss it. Instead, I help clients:

• Understand the role pornography is playing—whether it’s a coping mechanism, a habit, or something else entirely

• Move from shame-based reactions to values-based responses that actually create change

• Rebuild trust and intimacy in marriages affected by pornography use

• Navigate the intersection of faith, sexuality, and relationship health in an LDS context

• Support spouses who feel betrayed, confused, or devastated by their partner’s pornography use

• Frequently Asked Questions About Mormon Pornography

• Is it normal for LDS members to struggle with pornography?

• Yes. Pornography use among LDS members is far more common than the Church’s public conversation suggests. The shame around disclosure means most members struggle silently. Research suggests that LDS members view pornography at rates similar to the general population, though they experience significantly higher distress as a result of the moral conflict it creates.

Does viewing pornography make someone a bad member of the LDS Church?

Pornography use reflects a struggle, not a verdict on your worthiness or character. As a therapist, I work with many deeply faithful LDS members who genuinely love the gospel and yet struggle with pornography. These aren’t bad people—they’re people in pain who need support, not condemnation.

Can couples recover from pornography in an LDS marriage?

Yes—and many do. I have worked with couples where pornography felt like the end of everything, and with the right support, they rebuilt a marriage that is more honest, connected, and intimate than before. Recovery requires genuine accountability, transparency, and a willingness from both partners to do the work. But it is absolutely possible.

Should I tell my bishop about my pornography use?

That is a personal spiritual decision, and I respect each client’s autonomy in making it. From a clinical standpoint, confession to priesthood leaders can be helpful as part of a broader healing process, but it is not a substitute for therapy. Many of my clients work with both a bishop and a therapist, finding that each plays a distinct and valuable role.

Ready to Take the First Step?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Whether you’re struggling with pornography use, supporting a spouse, or a couple trying to heal—I offer a free 20-minute consultation to help you understand your options and determine if we’re a good fit.