Philias and paraphilias are terms used in psychology to describe different types of sexual attraction or arousal towards specific objects, situations or people. Although most people experience sexual attraction towards other people, there are cases in which this attraction is directed towards unusual or atypical elements. In this article, we will explore in detail what philias and paraphilias are, the different types that exist and the characteristics that define them.
Philias: Definition and Characteristics
Philias can be defined as intense and persistent sexual attractions towards objects, situations or specific parts of the body that do not usually arouse sexual interest in most people. Unlike paraphilias, philias are not considered sexual disorders in themselves, unless they significantly interfere with the person's daily life or cause significant discomfort.
Types of Philias:
There are numerous types of philias, some of the most common include:
- Acrotomophilia: sexual attraction to people with amputations.
- Agalmatophilia: attraction to statues or dolls.
- Trichotillomania: attraction to pulling out one's own hair.
- Dendrophilia: strong> sexual attraction to trees.
- Teratophilia: attraction to people with physical deformities.
Paraphilias: Definition and Types
Paraphilias refer to atypical and persistent patterns of sexual attraction that involve unusual objects, situations or activities. Unlike philias, paraphilias are considered sexual disorders when they cause significant distress or harm to the person or others. It is important to note that not all paraphilias require treatment if they do not affect a person's daily life in a negative way.
Types of Paraphilias:
Some examples of paraphilias include:
- Voyeurism: observing people while they are naked or carrying out sexual activities without their consent.
- Exhibitionism: showing genitals to people who do not want it.
- Fetishism: sexual excitement towards inanimate objects or specific parts of the body.
- Sadism and Masochism: obtaining sexual pleasure by inflicting pain (sadism) or receiving pain (masochism).
- Coprolalia: sexual arousal by uttering obscenities or vulgar comments during the sexual act. li>
Common Characteristics of Philias and Paraphilias
Despite the differences between philias and paraphilias, there are some common characteristics that these atypical sexual attraction patterns share:
1. Unusuality
Both philias and paraphilias involve sexual attractions toward objects, situations, or activities that are considered unconventional or unusual in terms of what is generally considered sexually attractive.
2. Persistence
People with philias and paraphilias experience these attractions persistently over time, often from a young age. These atypical sexual preferences do not usually change easily and can be an integral part of a person's sexual identity.
3. Impact on Daily Life
Although not all philias and paraphilias require treatment, those that significantly interfere with a person's daily life can be considered sexual disorders. This may manifest itself in difficulties establishing healthy relationships, work or legal problems, or significant psychological distress.
4. Need for Consent
It is important to keep in mind that consent in any sexual interaction is fundamental, even in the context of philias and paraphilias. Sexual practices that involve unusual objects, situations or activities must be mutually agreed upon and consensual by all parties involved so that they are ethical and healthy.
Conclusions
In short, philias and Paraphilias represent atypical patterns of sexual attraction that can vary significantly in their nature and severity. While some of these sexual preferences are harmless and do not require intervention, others can cause significant distress and require specialized treatment. It is essential to understand the diversity of human sexuality and address these issues from an empathetic and respectful perspective.