Why do fantasies often involve characters or roles that contradict an individual's public identity, and what does this say about the divided self?
Fantasies are mental images, thoughts, or feelings involving scenarios that may be impossible or unlikely to occur in real life. They can range from simple daydreams to elaborate stories with intricate plots and settings. While some people might find their fantasies to be harmless fun, others may feel guilty or ashamed about them, leading to internal conflict. This is because many fantasies involve characters or situations that contradict an individual's public identity, which can lead to feelings of confusion and dissonance.
One common type of fantasy involves role reversal, where a person imagines themselves in a situation where they switch places with someone else, usually someone who has more power or control than them.
A submissive person might imagine being the dominant one for once, while a dominant person might imagine submitting to another person. These fantasies can provide a sense of escape from daily stressors and responsibilities, but they can also raise questions about one's own identity and desires.
Another type of fantasy involves sexuality, where individuals explore their deepest desires without fear of judgment or rejection.
These fantasies can also be difficult to accept because they often involve taboo subjects such as BDSM, non-monogamy, or incest. By exploring these fantasies through fiction, individuals can better understand their own desires and boundaries, but it can also create tension between their private and public selves.
Some psychologists believe that fantasies help individuals cope with anxiety by providing a safe outlet for their inner thoughts and emotions. Others suggest that they are simply a natural part of human nature, allowing us to explore possibilities and experiment with different identities. Either way, fantasies reveal something about the complex and sometimes conflicting aspects of our personalities. They allow us to break free from societal norms and expectations and explore what truly turns us on, both physically and emotionally.
Why do fantasies often involve characters or roles that contradict an individual's public identity, and what does this say about the divided self?
The human psyche is complex, and it is not uncommon for individuals to have conflicting desires and needs within themselves. This can be seen through their behavior and choices in life. One way in which this manifests itself is in the realm of fantasy, where people create characters or roles that are different from their public identity. Fantasies provide a safe space for exploration and expression of these hidden desires, and they offer an opportunity to explore alternative identities and experiences.