Why do I feel disgusted by my own sexual fantasies?

Many people experience feelings of disgust or shame when certain sexual fantasies arise, even if they are harmless and unacted upon. This often stems from societal messages about sexuality, personal upbringing, or a mismatch between a fantasy and one's conscious values. These feelings don't necessarily reflect your true desires or character, but rather how you've been conditioned to interpret sexual thoughts.

Research indicates that approximately 80% of adults report having sexual fantasies, with a significant portion experiencing fantasies they consider unusual or taboo.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who feels disgusted by my own sexual fantasies?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone feel disgusted by their own sexual fantasies?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to feel disgusted by your own sexual fantasies?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to feel disgusted by your own sexual fantasies?

Is It Weird?

Real stories from the community

Not just the costume, you know, but the whole… *vibe* I do with the other grad students, the whole predatory intellectual dominatrix thing where I make them do extra research for me and they, like,… …

sexual shame

I dunno if this is even a real problem but I drew something the other day, just a quick sketch, and it made me feel like I was going to hell, you know? …

sexual shame

And everyone was, like, sharing these — stories, about like, their past flings and awkward dates and whatever, and I just sat there, laughing along, trying to seem engaged, but inside I was just…… …

sexual shame

Heavy equipment, moving earth, building stuff. …

sexual shame

Does everyone feel this disconnect, or is it just me, the ghost at the feast, pretending to belong? …

sexual shame

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sexual fantasies normal?▾
Yes, sexual fantasies are a very common and healthy part of human sexuality, experienced by most people regardless of their relationship status or sexual orientation. They can be a way for your mind to explore desires, curiosities, or simply a form of mental play.
Why do I have fantasies I don't want?▾
Sometimes, fantasies can arise that seem out of character or even disturbing. These might be intrusive thoughts, remnants of past experiences, or simply the brain's way of exploring various scenarios without any real desire to enact them. They don't define your true intentions or personality.
How can I stop feeling ashamed of my fantasies?▾
Addressing feelings of shame often involves recognizing that thoughts are not actions and that many people experience a wide range of fantasies. Understanding the source of your shame, whether it's societal pressure or personal beliefs, can be a helpful first step in reducing these uncomfortable feelings.

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