A social taboo is an unwritten code that governs behavior in society. It usually involves activities or beliefs that are considered immoral or socially undesirable. Examples include incest, bestiality, necrophilia, pedophilia, polyamory, polygamy, prostitution, public nudity, cannibalism, and more. In modern Western culture, most people view these behaviors as morally wrong. They also carry legal penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and even death. People who engage in them may face severe stigma from their families, friends, and communities. Despite this, some individuals find themselves attracted to those they consider taboo partners. Researchers have studied how this attraction impacts moral reasoning and emotional regulation. This article will explain what research says about this fascinating phenomenon.
Definition of Social Taboos
Social taboos vary across time, place, and culture. Some cultures practice incest without guilt. Others believe it is a crime against nature and a sin. Different religions treat the same behavior differently. The Catholic Church forbids divorce but permits marriage between first cousins. Islamic law allows polygamy but not homosexual acts. Eastern cultures accept arranged marriages while Western ones focus on love matches.
Taboos exist because they serve an important function: preserving order, protecting vulnerable groups, and ensuring reproductive success. Without rules, human societies would be chaotic and unstable.
Some taboos reflect personal preferences rather than universal principles.
Attraction to Socially Taboo Partners
Many people feel repelled by taboo subjects or activities. Others find them intriguing or desirable. There are several reasons for this difference in response. First, humans evolved with limited control over our sexual urges. We can't just choose who we desire. Second, exposure to taboo content can create arousal despite its wrongness. Third, social taboos may represent cultural differences that spark intellectual curiosity.
Humans seek novelty and variety, which includes breaking rules. These factors contribute to why some people experience "taboo attraction."
Moral Reasoning
Moral reasoning refers to how individuals judge right from wrong. It involves understanding ethical standards, values, and consequences of actions. People with taboo attractions often struggle with their morality. They may justify their behavior as harmless or natural. Or they might deny it altogether, believing themselves immune to conventional norms.
Some research suggests that moral dilemmas involving taboo partners lead to greater cognitive dissonance. This means people have conflicting thoughts and emotions about the situation, causing psychological stress. Other studies suggest that taboo attractions weaken self-control, leading to riskier choices.
A person may engage in unsafe sex with someone who could infect them with HIV/AIDS. Still, others claim that taboo attractions test moral boundaries, helping us grow spiritually.
Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation is the ability to manage one's feelings. It allows people to cope with difficult situations without letting them consume them. Individuals with taboo attractions may struggle to regulate their emotions. They may feel ashamed, guilty, or confused. They may avoid talking about their feelings out of fear of judgement. Or they may bottle up their emotions, leading to depression or anxiety. Some turn to drugs or alcohol to numb painful feelings. Others seek therapy for help processing their experiences.
Research has shown that emotionally regulated people make better decisions than those who don't.
Well-regulated individuals are less likely to take risks or engage in impulsive behaviors. Taboo attraction presents an added challenge because it involves both rational and irrational parts of the mind. People must weigh the benefits against potential harm, but also consider societal condemnation.
Taboo attractions can be confusing and distressing for those experiencing them.
Research shows that they don't necessarily reflect poor moral reasoning or lack of control. Instead, these urges can serve as a way to explore personal limits and expand our understanding of ourselves. With appropriate support, many people can learn to navigate this complex issue.
How does attraction to socially taboo partners impact moral reasoning and emotional regulation?
Attraction to socially taboo partners can lead to increased levels of moral reasoning and emotional regulation due to the heightened social stigma associated with such relationships. This stigmatization can lead individuals to feel isolated, rejected, and misunderstood by society at large, leading them to develop stronger self-regulatory mechanisms for managing their feelings and beliefs about themselves and others.