What is sexual myopia?
Sexual myopia is a cognitive bias that affects people during arousal. It causes them to focus narrowly on their current sexual situation and prioritize short-term rewards over long-term consequences. People may make risky decisions without considering potential negative outcomes or thinking about how their actions will impact others. This can lead to regret later on.
How does sexual myopia happen?
Sexual myopia occurs when people are highly aroused. Arousal increases dopamine levels in the brain, which makes it more difficult for people to think logically and consider future consequences. Additionally, arousal leads to activation of the pleasure center in the brain, which makes people feel good in the moment but can cause problems later on.
Examples of sexual myopia
One example of sexual myopia is cheating on a partner. When someone is aroused, they may be less likely to consider the damage it could do to their relationship if they have sex with another person. They might also ignore warnings from their conscience or other people who tell them that cheating is wrong. Another example is unprotected sex during a one-night stand. People who are aroused may not think about the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted infection or getting pregnant.
Consequences of sexual myopia
The consequences of sexual myopia can include guilt, shame, relationship problems, health issues, and even legal trouble. If someone has an affair, it can damage trust in a relationship and hurt both partners emotionally. Unprotected sex can result in STIs or pregnancy, which can affect physical and mental health as well as finances. In extreme cases, illegal behavior such as statutory rape or assault can have serious legal ramifications.
Ways to avoid sexual myopia
To avoid sexual myopia, people should practice self-control and focus on long-term goals. They can ask themselves what would happen if they made a certain choice and weigh the pros and cons. They can also set clear boundaries around when and how much sex they want to have, and stick to those boundaries. Finally, they can seek professional help if they struggle with impulse control or addiction issues.