GOING DOWN

This dynamic workshop invites participants to critically explore the psychological and social impacts of pornography and artificial intimacy in today’s digital world. Together, we’ll analyze the growing phenomenon of replacing human interaction with these mediums, while also learning to think critically about the assumptions, patterns, and behaviors they bring. Through a mix of interactive exercises, relevant research, media analysis, and conversation, participants will unpack how digital content shapes their perceptions of intimacy, desire, and connection. The workshop offers a judgment-free space to reflect, share, and develop skills for authentic, meaningful relationships in a hyperconnected age.

Learning Objectives:
– Explore the emotional and practical needs that drive intimate digital consumption and how that practice relates to other ways we try to optimize basic human drives

– Establish how the businesses of pornography and AI companions are designed to simulate but not reciprocate intimacy
– Identify and analyze the messages conveyed through mainstream pornography, including distorted views of communication, unrealistic body standards, stereotypes, commodified intimacy, and the normalization of aggression or emotional detachment
– Explain the cognitive and emotional impacts of frequent pornography use and artificial companionship, including distorted ideas of relationships and sexual satisfaction and norms
– Examine evidence of how pornography can impact behavior in areas like sexual performance, relationship expectations, levels of aggression, and addiction
– Promote strategies for critically evaluating content, consuming with reflection, coping with loneliness, and fostering healthy online behaviors
– Recognize the importance of vulnerability, mutual effort, and imperfection in building authentic intimacy
This 75-90 minute interactive workshop can be presented to up to 400 students.