What happens when people are not allowed to express their sexuality openly? How does this suppression affect them physically, mentally, socially, spiritually, and interpersonally? This article will examine how cultural norms can be oppressive, what happens when those norms lead to repression, and how individuals can deal with that repression.
Physical Effects
When people are told they cannot express themselves, it creates tension in the body. They may feel uneasy or anxious, and this can cause physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, nausea, shaking, sweating, and trouble breathing. Repressed sexual energy can be stored in the muscles and joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Suppressed feelings can also manifest as skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, hives, or other eruptions. Sexual urges may drive some people to engage in harmful behaviors like masturbation, pornography addiction, or dangerous activities.
Mental Effects
Repression is associated with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and loneliness. Individuals who feel shame around their sexuality may have difficulty forming intimate relationships because they fear rejection. They may become isolated, disconnected from others, and unable to communicate their needs, wants, or desires. This can lead to social withdrawal, poor performance at work or school, substance abuse, or other unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Spiritual Effects
Many cultures believe that sex is a sacred act between two people, so suppressing it can make an individual feel out of sync with nature. They may experience guilt, confusion, and alienation from God or their higher power. In extreme cases, suppression can lead to spiritual crisis, religious trauma, or even religious conversion. Some religions teach that sexual pleasure is sinful, which adds to the complexity of these issues.
Interpersonal Effects
When individuals cannot express themselves sexually, it affects their interactions with others. They may avoid dating, flirting, or romantic situations altogether. If they do enter into relationships, they may struggle with communication about needs, boundaries, or expectations. Repressed partners may not feel able to share fantasies, feelings, or experiences without judgment or ridicule. Suppressed individuals may also be more prone to infidelity or extramarital affairs as a way to fulfill their needs outside the relationship.
Coping Mechanisms
Individuals facing repression can seek professional help in the form of therapy or counseling. They can join support groups for people struggling with similar issues. They can practice self-compassion, self-love, mindfulness, meditation, journaling, or other forms of emotional regulation. Healthy expressions of sexuality include masturbation, solo play, erotic artwork, roleplaying games, or BDSM activities. Individuals can explore non-traditional relationships such as polyamory, kink, swingers, or open marriages.
What happens when erotic expression becomes suppressed for years?
When individuals have limited opportunities to engage in sexual behavior with others over an extended period of time, their ability to understand and express their desires may become stifled. This can lead to a lack of awareness of one's own body and how it relates to sexual pleasure, as well as difficulty communicating those needs to potential partners.