Denial about underage pornography, especially when someone claims it’s “normal,” is both dangerous and deeply misguided. This kind of denial isn’t just a refusal to accept reality—it actively harms victims and enables ongoing abuse. From a psychological and trauma-informed standpoint, such denial is a form of collective blindfolding that keeps harmful cycles alive.

Here’s why denying or normalizing underage pornography is so problematic:

1. It erases the real trauma of victims. Underage pornography represents exploitation and abuse of minors. Saying it’s “normal” is a brutal dismissal of the harm inflicted on vulnerable children who are forced or coerced into these acts.
2. It prevents accountability. When families or communities normalize such behavior, perpetrators avoid consequences. This lack of accountability means abuse can continue unchecked, putting more children at risk.
3. It obstructs healing and justice. Denial creates a toxic environment where victims cannot speak out or seek help without fear of disbelief or dismissal. Emotional validation is essential for recovery, and denial cuts that off at the root.
4. It reflects fear, shame, and stigma. Often, denial comes from not wanting to face uncomfortable truths, legal consequences, or social judgment. But choosing silence over truth comes at a terrible cost.
5. It perpetuates secrecy and isolation. Survivors often feel isolated when their experiences are dismissed, which can worsen trauma symptoms and hinder recovery.

In my opinion, confronting denial head-on with education, compassion, and firm boundaries is crucial. Families, communities, and society must recognize that no form of child exploitation is “normal.” It is abuse, and it demands attention, intervention, and prevention.

If you are witnessing denial like this in your environment, it’s vital to connect with professionals who specialize in trauma and abuse. They can guide survivors toward healing and help hold perpetrators accountable. Silence and denial only protect abusers and harm survivors.