Psychological Conflicts Arise When Personal Desires Clash With Social Norms
Personal desires are individual thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that an individual holds close to their heart. They are unique to each person and often reflect their core values and identity. On the other hand, social norms refer to the generally accepted rules of behavior within a society, which are taught through various means such as family, education, religion, media, etc. Conflict between personal desires and social norms can arise when these two things collide with each other, leading to psychological conflicts.
One common example is gender roles. In many societies, men are expected to be dominant and aggressive while women should be submissive and gentle.
Some people may have a desire to challenge these stereotypes, and they could feel conflict when they act differently from what's considered acceptable in their culture. Another example is sexuality. Some cultures discourage same-sex relationships or even promiscuity, but individuals who identify themselves as LGBTQ+ might experience psychological conflicts because they don't fit into those categories.
Psychological conflicts arise when personal desires clash with social norms because it creates cognitive dissonance. Cognitive dissonance refers to the mental state wherein a person experiences conflicting thoughts or beliefs.
If someone wants to pursue their dream career despite being told by others that it won't work out, they will feel unease. This unease arises due to the inconsistency between their personal desires and external expectations.
The effects of this conflict on an individual's psyche can vary depending on several factors such as their personality type, upbringing, support system, and environment. They may experience feelings of guilt, shame, anger, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. These emotions can affect their behavior and decision-making, causing them to engage in risky activities like substance abuse, eating disorders, or other harmful coping mechanisms.
When personal desires clash with social norms, psychological conflicts emerge, leading to cognitive dissonance and potentially negative consequences for the individual. Understanding the reasons behind these conflicts can help people develop strategies for dealing with them healthily and lead more fulfilling lives.
What psychological conflicts arise when personal desires clash with social norms?
When personal desires clash with social norms, it can create psychological conflict as individuals may feel torn between their own needs and values and those of society. This conflict can lead to feelings of guilt, anxiety, and stress, especially if they perceive that society's expectations are contradictory or unjust. Additionally, individuals may struggle to reconcile their personal beliefs and preferences with the pressures of conformity, leading to cognitive dissonance and self-doubt.