yes, therapy helps!
Eroticism: definition ... and some necessary reflections

Eroticism: definition ... and some necessary reflections

March 26, 2024

When we talk about eroticism , or we hear someone mention about an erotic experience or sensation, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Sex and love Possibly…

Simply turn on the TV or browse through a magazine or newspaper to realize that, currently, the media has marketed both sex and sexuality which is precisely what we think when we hear words like this. There is so much sexual connotation in some media that sometimes we do not know if they are seducing us or selling a shampoo, for example.

However, there are those who still consider talking about the subject to be offensive and uncomfortable, for others, the term evokes mental images that refer them to the genital organs and sexual practice, as well as some health issues (at best cases) that include eroticism, how sexually transmitted diseases and contraceptive methods. And for other few it is natural to talk about referring subjects.


Definition of eroticism

But, what is eroticism? How is an erotic feeling? What do we mean by this? Does it really have to do only with sexual practices? How much do we not know about the subject?

There is little specific information on the subject, most of the research refers to eroticism with vague or little exhaustive explanations about the concept. For example, it is usually defined as communication and activity as a couple or individual, where different emotions, feelings and attitudes that lead to stimulation intervene genital and orgasm in search of sexual pleasure.

Clarifying concepts

Going to the origin of the term, the word eroticism originates from the Greek Eros In reference to God Eros who is associated with sensuality, desire and sexual pleasure, as well as behaviors that manifest when there is attraction between two or more beings.


Eroticism is a human characteristic; and indeed, the concept itself refers to overt behaviors and attitudes that encourage interaction and sexual activity , such as: caresses, kisses, hugs, oral stimulation, masturbation, among others that generally lead to intercourse and / or directly to the sensation of sexual pleasure of those who practice them and who do not necessarily look for these behaviors with reproduction.

How and when is eroticism expressed?

How, when and where these behaviors are manifested directly depends on the personality of each one, tastes and preferences , as well as other factors such as socioeconomic level, type of culture, family customs, religious practices, geographical location, etc. These practices allow the individual to be in contact with his body, identify and perceive those stimuli that are pleasurable and, of course, also allows him to know those practices that are not, both for him and the person with whom he shares these experiences.


Eroticism involves the person in an integral way: physically and psychologically, it represents the way in which he expresses for himself and others, his most intimate desires, fantasies and feelings. There are innumerable different ways in which each one of us carries these desires to reality, and manifests his "erotic being": from a romantic dinner on the beach to a session of sadomasochism, a trio or exchange of a couple, for mention some. Not all of these erotic manifestations are exotic or border on the extreme.

The importance of erotic language

The Erotic language does not have a specific characteristic, it involves each and every one of our senses . It consists of sensations and warm stimuli that shake the epidermis, also intervenes feelings such as love and desire, the exchange of looks, words, gestures and signs that indicate to the other that is in a position to bring these sensations to the maximum.

Any behavior that represents a source of sexual pleasure for the person can be considered an erotic sensation, this can be provoked with the own body, that of the couple or external objects such as toys, feathers, ice, or others; There is a wide range of articles that enrich the sexual experience, specialized stores and even annual fairs that promote and inform, there is also an increase in the participation of health professionals and experts in sexuality that allow the erotic life to be even more pleasant; orienting and educating the population in order to improve the experience.

Some reflections on eroticism

The concept eroticism it is something complex and subjective, therefore, difficult to classify. According to sexologists, there is no certain practice as normal or abnormal when it comes to eroticism and sexuality . The response to an erotic stimulus depends on the desires and fantasies of each person and something that is pleasurable for some, can even be painful and abominable for others. Therefore, I think it is the responsibility of each one of us to define what is erotic and pleasant, to communicate it and to be honest at the time of said practices to maintain our physical and psychological integrity.

I consider that eroticism is part of a human need, not only to receive but also to provide pleasure, a pleasure that can be limited only to physical and mechanical stimulation or extend as much as the limits of our imagination permit, resulting in a complete state of physical and mental pleasure.

A way to rediscover ourselves through pleasure

Erotic practices bring us closer to ourselves and to the other in a unique way since it is in intimacy where personality traits that usually remain hidden or private emerge .

It is essential to know our limits and respect those of the couple so that the practice of eroticism is pleasant, lasting and constant. "Speaking is understood by people" a good communication both with oneself and with the couple is key so that we can exploit that erotic potential that characterizes us.

Developing an erotic identity is vital for the psychological well-being of the individual. Fortunately, today we have multiple tools such as books, websites, manuals, educational and health institutions, brochures and fairs that are public access and that allow us to know about the various aspects that involve the erotic identity. Being informed and being responsible with our sexual behaviors depends directly on each individual.

Bibliographic references:

  • Freyman, Regina. (2011). Geography and erotic language. Reason and Word, August-October. Retrieved from: //www.redalyc.org/articulo.oa?id=199520010037
  • Vladimir Gessen Psychology for all. Eroticism. Recovered from: //www.psicologiaparatodos.com/psicologianuevo ...

Why Beautiful Things Make us Happy – Beauty Explained (March 2024).


Similar Articles