The Reward Foundation

The Reward Foundation is a pioneering relationship and sex education charity. The name comes from the 'reward system' of the brain, the part responsible for motivating behaviour. Dopamine is the main neurochemical that is behind wanting, anticipation of pleasure, craving. It drives our desire for love, sex, food, novelty and success. But the reward system can be hijacked and diverted by artificially strong dopamine-driven rewards such as drugs, alcohol, nicotine and the internet. These substances and activities can shrink the grey matter in the brain eliminating vital connections. When this happens, brain development and our ability to make good decisions are impaired.

Internet pornography is a super-normal or "industrial strength" stimulus. It's nothing like porn of the past. As with cocaine and heroin use, it can lead to compulsive or addictive use when binged upon regularly. Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to its effects. They are also the most motivated to use it. Porn can poison relationships. Learn more from a neuroscientist how to combat this.

The Reward Foundation is a key source of evidence-based information about love relationships and the impact of internet pornography on mental and physical health, relationships, learning and legal risks.


We do not offer therapy nor provide legal advice. However, we do signpost routes to recovery for people whose porn use has become problematic. Our aim is to help users, parents, professionals and politicians to access the evidence and support they need to take make informed decisions and take appropriate action.