As I am a psychologist, much of my work has focused on empathy and understanding the emotions of others. In the realm of human emotions, there exists an intriguing and lesser-known phenomenon known as basorexia. Derived from the Greek words "basi" meaning kiss and "rexia" meaning hunger, basorexia is defined as an intense craving or obsession for kissing. It is a complex and multifaceted emotion that has fascinated psychologists and researchers for years.
The origins of basorexia can be traced back to our evolutionary past. Kissing has been a universal human behaviour that transcends cultural boundaries, serving as a form of communication, bonding, and even courtship. From a biological perspective, kissing triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with empathy, bonding, and attachment (Barchi-Ferreira & Osório, 2021) creating a sense of pleasure and intimacy. This innate human desire for physical connection and affection can be considered the foundation of basorexia.
Basorexia manifests itself in various ways, ranging from a general fondness for kissing to an insatiable craving for the act itself. Individuals experiencing basorexia may find themselves daydreaming about kissing or constantly seeking opportunities to engage in this intimate act. The mere thought or mention of kissing can evoke intense emotional and physical responses, leading to an overwhelming desire to engage in the activity.
While basorexia is not officially recognized as a clinical disorder, its psychological implications are intriguing. Some experts believe that individuals with a heightened sense of basorexia may have an underlying need for emotional closeness and intimacy. This desire for connection through kissing could potentially compensate for unmet emotional needs or serve as a coping mechanism for loneliness or anxiety.
Moreover, basorexia has been associated with the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward (Bressan & Crippa, 2005). The act of kissing can stimulate the brain's reward system, leading to feelings of euphoria and satisfaction, encouraging a bond between individuals (De Boer, van Buel, & Ter Horst, 2012). This neurological response may explain why individuals with basorexia find themselves increasingly drawn to kissing as a means of seeking pleasure and emotional fulfillment.
Cultural and social factors also play a significant role in shaping the experience of basorexia. Different societies have diverse attitudes toward kissing, ranging from conservative to more permissive. These cultural norms can shape an individual's perception of kissing, impacting their level of desire and comfort with the act. In societies where kissing is more taboo or restricted, individuals with basorexia may struggle with their desires, potentially leading to feelings of guilt or shame.
For individuals experiencing basorexia, managing and embracing this desire can be a delicate balance. Open communication with partners, expressing one's needs, and understanding personal boundaries are essential. Engaging in healthy conversations about desires and expectations can foster a greater understanding and connection between people.
Additionally, exploring alternative forms of physical affection, such as hugging, cuddling, or hand-holding, can provide a sense of intimacy and connection outside of kissing. Developing a well-rounded approach to physical affection can help individuals with basorexia navigate their desires in a way that is respectful and fulfilling to both themselves and others.
Basorexia, the enigmatic desire for kissing, highlights the complex nature of human desires and the significance of physical affection in our lives. While much remains to be discovered about this phenomenon, it is clear that basorexia represents a potent and deeply ingrained aspect of human nature. By understanding and embracing this basorexia, individuals can navigate their own desires while fostering healthy and meaningful connections with others. To be obsessed with any aspect of human behaviour is far from ideal; however, neither is the opposite. We should never forget the pleasure of kissing.
References
Barchi-Ferreira, A. M., & Osório, F. L. (2021). Associations between oxytocin and empathy in humans: A systematic literature review. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 129, 105268.
Bressan, R. A., & Crippa, J. A. (2005). The role of dopamine in reward and pleasure behaviour–review of data from preclinical research. Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, 111, 14–21.
De Boer, A., van Buel, E. M., & Ter Horst, G. J. (2012). Love is more than just a kiss: a neurobiological perspective on love and affection. Neuroscience, 201, 114–124.
Basorexia: The Enigmatic Desire for Kissing
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09.01.2024
As I am a psychologist, much of my work has focused on empathy and understanding the emotions of others. In the realm of human emotions, there exists an intriguing and lesser-known phenomenon known as basorexia. Derived from the Greek words "basi" meaning kiss and "rexia" meaning hunger, basorexia is defined as an intense craving or obsession for kissing. It is a complex and multifaceted emotion that has fascinated psychologists and researchers for years.
The origins of basorexia can be traced back to our evolutionary past. Kissing has been a universal human behaviour that transcends cultural boundaries, serving as a form of communication, bonding, and even courtship. From a biological perspective, kissing triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with empathy, bonding, and attachment (Barchi-Ferreira & Osório, 2021) creating a sense of pleasure and intimacy. This innate human desire for physical connection and affection can be considered the foundation of basorexia.
Basorexia manifests itself in various ways, ranging from a general fondness for kissing to an insatiable craving for the act itself. Individuals experiencing........
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