Advocacy
AFAR believes that sound public policy should be guided by credible scientific research. We support evidence-based advocacy that helps policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public better understand sex addiction and its impact on individuals, families, and society.
Our advocacy focuses on bringing the best available research into important legal and public policy discussions where scientific evidence can make a meaningful difference.
Advocacy in action
Supporting the Courts with Science
AFAR believes that courts and policymakers should have access to the best available scientific evidence when addressing issues that affect public health and safety.
In 2025, AFAR funded the preparation of an amicus curiae (“friend of the court”) brief in support of the Attorney General of Texas in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case, Free Speech Coalition, Inc. v. Paxton. The brief summarized current scientific research on the effects of pornography exposure, particularly on children and adolescents, and highlighted the state’s compelling interest in protecting minors from harmful online content.
The Supreme Court upheld Texas’ age verification law in a 6-3 decision, affirming that states may require commercial pornography websites to verify users’ ages before granting access to material harmful to minors. The ruling established an important legal precedent for protecting children online and for other states considering similar legislation.
AFAR is proud to have helped ensure that the Court had access to objective, evidence-based research in reaching its decision. It reflects our broader commitment to bringing sound science into the legal and public policy conversations that shape prevention, treatment, and recovery.