Son viewing torture porn

Question

My son has Asperger’s. He is 17. I was checking his computer for a schoolwork file and I found he had saved pictures of torture porn. I do not know what to call it exactly but it involved people in pain mixed in with sex. I do not think this was normal s&m stuff. It is not something I know a lot about but there was blood and people getting smashed up and I found it sickening. What does this mean? Should I talk to him about this or pretend like I never saw it? He has never had a girlfriend (to my knowledge).

Jennifer Martin · Accepted Answer

It is good that you are asking the question because even though this is difficult and it is not an easy conversation to have, it is important that you not ignore it. Typically the choice to view these kinds of explicit images is an indication that your son is dealing with unexpressed feelings of rage. He is not sick but just has repressed emotions that he is seeking an outlet for. It is possible that a few sessions with a counselor could help to him to cope with these emotions in healthier ways.

You are welcome to call me if you have any questions after you discuss this with him. Here is the toll free: (855) Relate2.

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