I will explore the psychological functions of fantasy worlds and how they serve to process forbidden or repressed desires through the lens of psychoanalytic theory. Specifically, I will examine how such desires are often portrayed as taboos in society and how they can be expressed safely through the use of imagination.
Psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud famously believed that all human behavior was driven by the interplay between the conscious mind and the unconscious, and that much of what we experience is hidden from our awareness. He proposed that dreams were one way in which the unconscious communicated with the conscious mind, allowing for deeper insights into ourselves. Fantasies operate similarly, serving as a safe outlet for thoughts, feelings, and experiences that may be too difficult or dangerous to express openly in reality. By creating alternate realities where these desires can be explored without consequence, individuals can gain insight into themselves and their relationships.
One common trope in fantasy literature is the 'taboo' relationship, where characters engage in romance, sex, or other intimate behaviors despite societal disapproval or prohibitions.
Star-crossed lovers who must hide their connection from those around them or vampire-human pairings where mortality is an obstacle to their love. These relationships allow for a safe expression of sexual desire while also representing a rebellion against cultural norms. This not only satisfies the need for excitement but also serves as a way to explore alternative ways of relating to others outside of traditional expectations.
The same applies to more extreme or darker content, such as violence or BDSM. The appeal of these scenarios lies in their power dynamics and ability to push boundaries, offering an opportunity to process repressed emotions like anger or fear. In fact, some studies have shown that people who enjoy violent or taboo material tend to have lower levels of aggression in real life, suggesting that it may be a form of release rather than aggravation.
Fantasies are also often used to explore forbidden desires within relationships. A partner's infidelity, for instance, can be processed through a dream world where they cheat on you repeatedly with no consequences. Similarly, unrequited love can become a plot device where one character pines after another who is unattainable in reality. By playing out these scenarios, individuals can safely process their feelings and work through difficult emotions.
Fantasy worlds serve an important role in helping us understand ourselves and our desires by providing a safe space for exploration and processing. They offer a way to express what we may not be able to in real life and gain insight into our deepest fears and longings. Through this lens, they can help us develop emotionally healthier and fulfilling relationships, both within fiction and in our own lives.
Why do fantasies exaggerate taboo, danger, or forbidden desires, serving as mechanisms for unconscious emotional and relational processing?
Fantasies are often used as a means of exploring and processing emotions and experiences that may be difficult to confront directly. These types of fantasies may involve taboo, dangerous, or forbidden desires because they provide a safe way to explore and experiment with these feelings without any real consequences. By imagining scenarios involving these things, individuals can work through their fears, anxieties, and other difficult emotions in a way that is not overwhelming or harmful.