Psychologists have studied the effects of erotic longing in a variety of contexts, from sexual attraction to intimate relationships. When it comes to repressing erotic longing for the sake of ideological conformity, however, there are many factors that contribute to its psychological transformation.
If someone's religion forbids certain types of behavior or relationships, they may feel guilty about desiring them, leading to feelings of guilt and shame. This can lead to an internalization of these beliefs, whereby the individual begins to see themselves as bad or unworthy because of their desires.
This can result in a distorted self-image that is based on fear and negative emotions rather than positive affirmation.
People who experience trauma related to sexual abuse or assault may repress their desires as a way of coping with the pain and shame associated with those experiences. Again, this can lead to an internalized sense of shame and self-loathing, which can negatively impact identity formation.
Cultural norms and expectations around gender roles, sexual orientation, and other aspects of identity can also play a role in shaping how people view and express their eroticism. Repression can cause individuals to become disconnected from their true selves and struggle with identity issues later in life.
One study found that people who had experienced religious indoctrination early in life were more likely to report feelings of guilt and shame related to their sexual desires later in life. They also reported greater difficulty forming healthy romantic relationships and struggled with feeling accepted by others. Another study looked at the effects of childhood sexual abuse on adult sexuality and found that survivors often experienced lower levels of sexual desire and satisfaction compared to non-survivors. They also reported higher rates of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These findings suggest that repressed erotic longing can have lasting psychological consequences, including decreased self-esteem and difficulties forming intimate bonds with others.
When erotic longing is repressed for the sake of ideological conformity, it can have profound effects on psychological development and identity formation. It can result in negative self-image, distorted beliefs about oneself, and difficulties forming healthy relationships. Understanding these effects is important for providing support and resources to those struggling with repression and its aftermath.
What psychological transformations occur when erotic longing is repressed for the sake of ideological conformity, and how does this repression later surface in identity formation?
According to psychology, repressing sexual desires can have significant implications on one's mental health. When individuals are forced to suppress their natural urges, they may experience feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety, which can lead to negative outcomes such as depression, low self-esteem, and social isolation. These negative emotions can also impact other areas of life, including work performance and personal relationships.