Pornography addiction is often discussed as a problem affecting men, but a new video series is drawing attention to women who struggle with pornography use and may feel isolated by shame and secrecy.
Out of the Shadows, a free three-part video series from the Fortis Institute, aims to give women a faith-based framework for understanding pornography use while offering practical strategies for confronting the behaviors and patterns that can keep them trapped.
Hosted by Fortis Institute Fellow Libby Glosson, the series challenges the idea that pornography is primarily a male issue. According to research cited by the organization, a 2024 study by the Barna Group found that 44% of women in the United States reported viewing pornography to some extent, compared with 39% in Barna’s 2016 research.
The series focuses on the role shame and secrecy can play in addictive behaviors. Rather than presenting willpower as the sole answer, Out of the Shadows examines what may drive pornography use and encourages women to explore the desires and emotional patterns underlying the behavior.
“Nobody is talking about this topic,” Glosson said. “This series is a free resource to help replace secrecy with truth, so women can know freedom really is possible.”
The series approaches the issue through biblical teaching and practical guidance. Episodes address understanding personal desires, why pornography may fail to provide lasting satisfaction and how women can respond when confronted with temptation.
The program also emphasizes what happens after someone decides to stop. Viewers are encouraged to develop new habits, examine their thought patterns and pursue continued growth rather than viewing recovery as a one-time decision.
A companion study guide accompanies the video series, giving participants additional exercises and reflection opportunities. The guide incorporates Scripture-based activities and practical action steps intended to help viewers apply lessons from the videos to their daily lives.
Glosson also emphasizes the importance of bringing struggles that are often kept private into the open.
“When sin struggles hide in darkness, they grow,” Glosson added. “When they’re brought into the light of God’s word, true repentance, forgiveness, and real and lasting change can and does actually happen.”
Out of the Shadows is designed for women who may be confronting pornography use privately and looking for a resource grounded in Christian faith. The series and accompanying study guide are available free through the Fortis Institute.
The project comes as conversations around pornography, compulsive behavior and mental and emotional well-being continue to expand, while advocates and faith-based organizations seek ways to address the issue among populations that may feel overlooked.
For women who have believed they were alone in the struggle, Out of the Shadows seeks to replace silence with conversation and offer a path centered on faith, accountability and personal transformation.