The fear of sexual perversion or paraphobia is a relatively complicated phobia. Some people fear being perverted while others worry about the perversions of others. Paraphobia often, though not always, has its roots in cultural or religious education.
One of the reasons paraphobia is so complex is that the definition of perversion is extremely vague . At various times and in various cultures, homosexuality, cross-dressing, and countless sexual acts have been considered perverts.
However, in most modern societies, these and other behaviors are considered perfectly normal and acceptable. The lack of a clear definition of perversion that cuts across all cultures and origins makes paraphobia an intensely personalized fear.
It is important to note that phobias are never diagnosed unless fear causes difficulties in daily life. If two people who agree on their personal limits and comfort zones marry or form a relationship, they can be perfectly happy throughout their lives.
However, difficulties may arise if your definition of perversion is different from that of your partner, or if you find it difficult to form relationships because of your fear.
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Symptoms of Paraphobia
A true phobia – as opposed to a fear – often leaves its sufferers overcome by physical symptoms. If someone is truly paraphobic, they may have the following symptoms:
- Irrational fear of sexual perversion
- Terror
- Panic
- Fear
- Fast heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
Treatment for fear of sexual perversion
If your fear causes you problems in your daily life, it is important that you treat it with a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist. If you feel that your cultural or religious background may play a role in your fear, you may want to meet with a trusted religious advisor as an adjunct to conventional therapy.
Keep in mind that it is never acceptable for your partner to force you to participate in activities that make you feel uncomfortable or that make you feel bad about your decision not to participate. Similarly, it is unacceptable for you to judge your partner harshly for his interest in expanding the range of sexual activities (as long as the suggested activities are legal and not harmful).
If you are currently in a relationship, it is essential that you and your partner use open communication and mutual respect to reach an understanding. Many couples find that seeing a therapist together is a helpful step in learning to accept and balance their individual needs and wants.
Working with paraphobia is a delicate and sensitive process that can take some time. However, with hard work and an understanding therapist, there is no reason for your fear to control your life.
Hello, how are you? My name is Georgia Tarrant, and I am a clinical psychologist. In everyday life, professional obligations seem to predominate over our personal life. It's as if work takes up more and more of the time we'd love to devote to our love life, our family, or even a moment of leisure.