Pornography, Family Vulnerability, and Hifz al-Nasl: A Maqasid al-Shari’ah Synthesis

Abstract

Digital access to pornography has intensified concerns about adolescent sexual behavior, aggression, caregiving, and broader family vulnerability. This study examines how these empirically documented vulnerabilities may be interpreted through hifz al-nasl within the framework of maqasid al-shari'ah. Using a qualitative conceptual literature synthesis, seven purposively selected empirical sources on pornography exposure and problematic use, sexual behavior and violence, postpartum bonding following sexual violence, and intergenerational neglect and victimization were analyzed alongside classical and contemporary maqasid scholarship. The synthesis identifies three empirical domains: pornography-related behavioral and sexual vulnerabilities, reproductive and caregiving adversity associated with sexual violence, and intergenerational neglect and victimization. The evidence does not establish a linear causal pathway from pornography exposure to family dysfunction, and findings concerning pornography and aggression remain heterogeneous. Rather, the reviewed studies identify distinct but potentially intersecting vulnerabilities that may compromise caregiving and family protection. Interpreted normatively, these findings support an expanded understanding of hifz al-nasl that extends beyond lineage preservation to include child welfare, dignity, caregiving conditions, and social protection. The study contributes by integrating empirical psychosocial evidence with Islamic normative reasoning while preserving their distinct epistemological functions. This framework highlights pornography literacy, sexuality education, trauma-informed maternal support, protection from stigma, and intergenerational family support as potential areas for prevention and intervention that require further empirical evaluation.