Sexualization is when something that would be regarded as sexually alluring is transformed into something that is socially acceptable for everyone to consume without risking social sanction. It may include behaviors, dresses, or images that are explicitly or implicitly connected to sex. This article will examine how the virality of sexualized behaviors can obscure the difference between aspiration, imitation, and authentic desires.
Aspiration
Aspiration refers to an individual's dream or ambition. When someone sees something they like and desire, it becomes part of their goal to achieve it. They might want to become what they see or do what they admire.
The viral nature of sexualized behavior can make this aspirational aspect more appealing.
If there is a video clip of a celebrity dancing suggestively, many people may watch it repeatedly because they find it attractive.
After some time, these individuals may start to imitate such movements, which could eventually become a habit. This is known as mimicry, where one copies another person's actions or gestures without understanding why. As a result, the distinction between aspiration and imitation becomes blurred since both involve copying what others do.
Imitation
Imitation involves mimicking the actions of others without understanding why. This may happen unconsciously or consciously. When people copy others' behavior due to peer pressure, they may not understand why they are doing so.
If everyone in a group is posting pictures of themselves in skimpy clothing, individuals may feel compelled to join in even though they do not enjoy it. Such behavior becomes normalized, and its acceptance increases.
The virality of sexualized behavior can also encourage imitation. Suppose a social media influencer posts a video showing them engaging in intimate acts with their partner. Many followers may imitate them by trying out similar things with their partners. In such cases, the line between authentic desires and imitation is blurred because the individual does something that feels natural but doesn't necessarily reflect who they truly are.
Authentic Desires
Authentic desire refers to genuine feelings that come from within oneself rather than external influences. It requires self-reflection and introspection to discover one's true desires, which may be different from what society expects or what other people find appealing.
Sexualized behaviors that go viral often hide behind a facade of socially acceptable norms.
When a couple posts videos of themselves kissing passionately on social media, many may admire their display of affection.
This may mask an underlying discontent or insecurity in their relationship that prompted such action. Similarly, when someone sees an image of two people making love publicly, they might want to recreate the same thing without understanding the motivation behind it. As such, the distinction between aspiration and authentic desires becomes hazy since both involve copying others without fully understanding why.
The virality of sexualized behavior obscures the difference between aspiration, imitation, and authentic desires. Aspirations become muddled as individuals copy actions they like without understanding why. Imitation takes place when people feel pressured into doing something they do not enjoy.
Authentic desires get lost as individuals mimic what others do without understanding their motivations. By being mindful of these distinctions, individuals can avoid falling into unhealthy patterns of behavior that don't align with their values or goals.
How might the virality of sexualized behavior blur the distinction between aspiration, imitation, and authentic desire?
The virality of sexualized behavior can blur the distinction between aspiration, imitation, and authentic desire in several ways. Firstly, it may lead people to believe that such behaviors are more common than they actually are, which can result in feelings of pressure or shame if one does not conform to these expectations. Secondly, it can encourage individuals to adopt certain behaviors simply because they are popular or trendy, rather than out of genuine interest or personal preference.