Erotic Suppression and Denial during Formative Years
During formative years, children have been known to undergo a lot of changes both physically and mentally. As they grow up, they begin to understand their bodies better and develop an interest in exploring it for pleasure.
There are instances wherein this interest is suppressed or denied due to various factors such as cultural beliefs, religious beliefs, parental guidance, social norms, societal expectations, etc. The psychological effects of these practices can be far-reaching and detrimental to one's mental health. In this article, I will discuss the impacts that erotic suppression or denial may have on people who experience them during their childhood.
Erotic Suppression
The first effect of erotic suppression or denial is repression. When sexual urges are suppressed or denied from early childhood, individuals may feel ashamed of themselves. They may think that they are abnormal or wrong for having such feelings, which can lead to low self-esteem and self-worth. This can further manifest into depression, anxiety, and even suicidal tendencies if left unchecked. It can also lead to relationship issues later in life since individuals may find it difficult to express their needs and desires with partners due to fear of judgment or rejection.
Another effect of erotic suppression or denial is guilt. People may feel guilty about their own desires and fantasies, thinking that they should not exist. They may believe that these thoughts and feelings are sinful or immoral, leading to feelings of shame and remorse. This can cause a lot of internal conflict, making them question their own morality and identity.
Denial
When erotic suppression or denial happens through denial, individuals may experience confusion. They may struggle to understand why certain experiences are considered taboo or unacceptable. This can lead to an overwhelming sense of curiosity and frustration, causing them to seek out alternative means of exploration such as pornography or risky behavior.
This can also lead to addiction and other mental health problems.
People who have experienced erotic denial during formative years may develop trust issues, especially when it comes to intimate relationships. They may be hesitant to open up to others, fearing that their feelings will be judged or rejected. This can make it challenging to establish meaningful connections with others.
Erotic suppression and denial during formative years can have detrimental psychological effects on individuals. It can lead to repression, guilt, confusion, trust issues, and addictive tendencies. As such, it is important for parents and guardians to create a safe environment where children can explore their sexuality without judgment or shame. It is also essential for society to reevaluate its attitudes towards sex, sexuality, and intimacy to provide a supportive environment for everyone to grow in.
What are the psychological effects of erotic suppression or denial during formative years?
Erotic suppression or denial can have significant psychological impacts on an individual's life, especially when it occurs during their formative years. It may lead to feelings of shame, guilt, low self-esteem, and body image issues. This can result in negative coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, promiscuity, or isolationism.