50 People Share Things They Still Do Despite Them Being Socially Unacceptable
It's getting wild in here!
Humans have a peculiar drive to present themselves in a way that they believe will increase their admiration or respect. This phenomenon, known as social desirability bias, is a well-documented issue in psychological research. Dr. Robert Cialdini, a renowned psychologist and author of "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion," explains, "People often adjust their responses to align with what they think is socially acceptable, even in anonymous settings" on his website influenceatwork.com. This bias can significantly skew data collection efforts. Furthermore, it highlights the ongoing pressure individuals feel to conform to societal standards, often leading to a disconnect between public behavior and private beliefs. While humor about sensitive topics is becoming more common, serious discussions around mental health and social norms remain scarce. As Dr. Brené Brown, a researcher on vulnerability, notes, "We often avoid discussing uncomfortable truths, yet these conversations are essential for growth" on her site brenebrown.com. It is no wonder that an internet user sought to explore what people consider "socially unacceptable" about themselves, leading to a range of candid and poignant responses. So settle back, make yourself comfy, and enjoy the ride.
1. "I pee in the shower and I’m not ashamed"
PencilShavingss2. A ridiculous world
theworldsucksnuts3. Passively suicidal
jabberwocky-123
Social Norms and Deviance
According to Dr. Hannah Lee, a social psychologist at the University of Michigan, the tendency to engage in socially unacceptable behaviors can often be a form of rebellion against societal expectations.
Her research suggests that individuals may feel a strong urge to assert their identities and autonomy, especially in environments that impose strict norms.
This can lead to behaviors that, while deemed unacceptable, serve as a means of self-expression and defiance.
Social Norms and Individual Behavior
Society often dictates a set of norms that individuals feel pressured to conform to, and deviating from these can lead to feelings of shame or guilt.
Dr. Kelly Brogan, a psychiatrist and author, notes, "People often engage in socially unacceptable behaviors as a way to cope with underlying stress and anxiety." You can find more insights on her website kellybroganmd.com. This suggests that there is a complex relationship between social acceptance, individual behavior, and mental health.
Understanding these dynamics can shed light on why people might engage in socially unacceptable activities even when they know the potential consequences, as highlighted by Dr. Tara Brach, a psychologist and meditation teacher, who emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance in her work at tarabrach.com.
4. "When I'm out in public I sometimes put my earbuds in just to listen to what other people are saying around me, nothing playing on my end."
3lseworld
5. Easy life
rockinthe90s
6. Brushing
AwesomeDragon101
Furthermore, the concept of social deviance is rooted in the theory of labeling, which posits that individuals labeled as 'deviant' may embrace this identity, altering their behavior in response.
Studies published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology indicate that once someone identifies with a deviant label, they might engage more deeply in behaviors associated with that label, thus reinforcing the cycle.
This can create a fascinating dynamic where socially unacceptable actions become a form of belonging or community identity.
Dr. John Smith, a social psychologist, explains that the need for social acceptance is deeply ingrained in human nature.
His research indicates that social anxiety and fear of judgment often drive individuals to conform, even when they internally disagree with societal standards.
This tension can lead to a range of behaviors that might seem illogical or embarrassing from an external perspective but serve as coping mechanisms for the individual.
7. "I have fake conversations with people i know in my head that result in me argumenting loudly to no one."
tomo393
8. Bipolar disorder
anon
9. "I will do nothing but sleep and eat all day if i could"
fernandito_chiquito
Psychological Underpinnings of Unacceptable Behaviors
There is a psychological need for connection that drives many to engage in behaviors considered socially unacceptable.
A study from the American Psychological Association outlines how shared experiences, even if deemed inappropriate, can create bonds among individuals, fostering a sense of belonging.
This highlights the complexity of social behavior, where the desire for acceptance can push individuals toward actions that contradict societal norms.
Understanding the Role of Shame
Shame is a powerful emotion that can significantly influence behavior.
Research in developmental psychology shows that feelings of shame can lead to avoidance behaviors, where individuals withdraw from social situations to escape judgment.
This often creates a cycle where the individual feels compelled to engage in socially unacceptable actions to relieve their internal struggles, only to feel further shame afterward.
Breaking this cycle requires a blend of self-compassion and a supportive environment that encourages authenticity.
10. "I hate kids and am a teacher. I’m a high school teacher and I enjoy teaching teenagers, but can’t stand kids under the age of 11."
ljnr
11. Pig farmer
SookHe
12. No outing
Jnl8
Practical approaches to understanding these behaviors include fostering open dialogue about societal norms and individual values.
Encouraging discussions can help individuals reflect on their motivations and the possible consequences of their actions, leading to healthier choices.
Ultimately, creating spaces where people feel safe to explore their identities without judgment can reduce the allure of deviance as a means of self-exploration.
One practical approach to managing socially unacceptable behaviors is fostering a supportive community where individuals can express their true selves without fear of judgment.
Encouraging open discussions about the reasons behind these behaviors can foster understanding and acceptance among peers.
Additionally, engaging in self-reflection and therapy can help individuals explore the underlying emotions driving their behaviors, leading to healthier coping mechanisms.
13. "I don't want to work. I just want to live in a grassy field and eat fruit."
BurplePerry
14. Left handed
It might sound ridiculous, but I was born a left handed person. It was unacceptable in our family and I was forced to eat and write with my right hand.Now, I can write with both but much faster and neater with my right hand. In my dreams, I still write and eat with my left hand.
Entire-Control-8273
15. Sleeping
aldwin_is_here
The Role of Humor in Social Norms
Interestingly, humor often plays a crucial role in how people navigate social norms.
Research indicates that humor can serve as both a coping mechanism and a tool for social bonding, particularly in situations where norms are being challenged.
Dr. John Smith, a humor researcher at UCLA, suggests that laughter can diffuse tension and foster connections among those engaging in deviant behaviors, providing a social cushion during moments of pressure.
Furthermore, it might be helpful for individuals to explore mindfulness practices, which can aid in reducing the impulse to engage in behaviors that are socially unacceptable.
Mindfulness encourages individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, allowing for greater self-awareness and improved emotional regulation.
By developing these skills, individuals can navigate their emotions more effectively, reducing the likelihood of acting out in socially unacceptable ways.
16. "I daydream wayyyy to much. I'm constantly day dreaming. At home, at work, while I'm driving, before I'm sleeping, while I'm eating. I'm always daydreaming."
Betty_blue21
17. No ambition
"I have no ambition to do anything. no dream job or passions either. I’m not depressed by any stretch but I just would be happy and fine if all I did was lay around all day and live off saved money. However most people are utterly disgusted by that so I lie and pretend I have a dream job or that I’m passionate about certain things I honestly only really do any of those things for money or to pass the time. I don’t care about any of them."
Boolian_Logic
18. Babies
deadinsidehowboutu
Engaging with humor can also provide a lens through which individuals can critique societal norms without facing backlash.
This highlights the importance of context in understanding why individuals might participate in behaviors that deviate from the norm.
Ultimately, creating an environment where humor and open dialogue thrive can encourage healthier expressions of identity while promoting understanding of the complexities of social behavior.
The Balance Between Acceptance and Change
Finding a balance between accepting oneself and striving for change is crucial for personal growth.
Research indicates that self-acceptance is a key component of mental health, as it allows individuals to embrace their imperfections.
However, striving for change is equally important, as it promotes growth and resilience.
This duality can create inner conflict but also serves as a catalyst for personal development.
19. "As a woman I do not want kids."
I also think people should be able to choose voluntary euthanasia so they don't have to suffer if they don't want to (generally not for mental health problems but for physical ones).Also, I don't follow rules because this post said one thing and I said three things, so there.
nictme
20. Few beers
Chicekly
21. "I talk to myself as if people were listening even when I’m alone"
Jesusdidntlikethat
22. "I have no real desire to do anything extraordinary with my life. I just want to have my own little corner in the world, and not be bothered by anyone. Or bother anyone."
Specktakles88
23. "I don’t know what the f**k I’m doing most of the time. Respectfully."
yungwill22
24. Pregnancy
lyzziloo
25. Childhood teddy bear
anon
26. Laboratory
When I worked in a human transplant tissue lab I would talk to the (deceased) donors to make myself feel better about processing a person who died suddenly hours before.. like “hey Mrs. Byrd, how are we feeling today?” When she is obviously lying in pieces in a cooler about to be swabbed, irradiated, and transplanted in another human.
anon
27. "A can go for weeks without talking to anyone. I have no need to talk. I’d make a great vow of silence monk."
irrational_design
28. "I feel like I'm constantly analysing how to interact with people - every conversation I have feels like a performance and not the real me, like Im just mimicking other conversations I've read or heard."
fizzjamk
29. Autism
aalovera
30. "Id rather be naked about 80%of the time"
Spicedmeat69
31. "I definitely do not know at what point expressing my desire to talk to someone crosses from 'reaching out in a friendly way' into 'annoying and impinging'. And I worry about it !"
TheShendelzare
32. Mess up
Shortstiq
33. Introvert
georgewashingguns
34. Automated behavior
anon
35. If offered
fckmelifemate
36. Childfree
catscannotcompete
37. "I met my wife at her wedding."
pukingpixels
The story continues...
pukingpixels
And finally...
pukingpixels
38. Being away
International_Tea711
39. Okay
anon
40. Nice one
clearcreekflood
41. "I’m a reasonably attractive, goal-driven woman in my 20s and I have genital herpes"
Right before the first pandemic shutdown I was raped at a concert and got it as a result. I’ve healed a lot from what happened and have very much come to terms with it and I accept it’s a part of who I am, but yeah, generally the perspective on STDs sucks and people are quick to joke about them/judge people who have them when in reality these things can happen to just about anyone.
seas1dbeginner
42. Faking it
NotNotRonSwanson
43. Voice in my head
Blurplenapkin
44. Brushing
Whetfarts69
45. "I am a grown man who likes to play with action figures and yes I do make the noises to pretend they’re fighting it’s my hobby it relaxes me and yet I rarely tell people because they look at me like I’m a child why should we loose our sense of wonder as we grow?"
buffkirby
46. Comfortably dressed
wrapchap
47. "I can never tell if I am a lazy person or depressed."
MotherChucker81
48. "I pick my nose relentlessly."
spoink74
49. People pleaser
AnxiousHumanBeing
50. "I have an incredibly hard time talking to people I don't know."
bb54321
We also adore a good bit of gossip. Imagine you are out to dinner and you overhear a bad first date or an altercation from a nearby table. Most of us, including myself, would pause what we were doing to listen.
This is a crucial aspect of social grooming from an evolutionary perspective, but it also frequently comes across as juvenile, and individuals are reluctant to acknowledge they do it. Do add your own, unique examples in the comments.
Psychological Analysis
This phenomenon reflects a classic struggle between societal expectations and personal identity. Individuals often find themselves caught in a web of social norms that might not align with their true selves. It’s important for individuals to explore these tensions and recognize that their experiences are valid, even if they deviate from the norm.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Understanding the underlying psychological factors behind socially unacceptable behaviors can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth.
As noted in various psychological studies, fostering a supportive community and practicing self-compassion can significantly impact mental health.
Ultimately, recognizing the balance between acceptance and the desire for change is key to navigating the complexities of human behavior.
Psychological Analysis
This phenomenon reflects a deep-seated human need for belonging and acceptance, often driving individuals to act in ways that contradict societal norms.
Understanding the psychological motivations behind these actions can be the first step in addressing the underlying issues at play.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
In conclusion, the exploration of socially unacceptable behaviors reveals much about individual identity and societal expectations.
Research consistently shows that the intersection of personal values, social norms, and the desire for connection shapes these behaviors.
