Definition
We feel disgusted when we come into contact with things that we find gross, contaminated, or offensive.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Disgust is a “better safe than sorry” defense system. We gag to help us avoid getting sick on spoiled food. Similarly, we distance ourselves from people that might put us at risk.
◈ How It Shows Up
“That’s gross, get it away!”Scrunched nose, upper lip liftLeaning back, looking awayNausea or gag reflexCleansing or purging urges
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Get literal distance from the source
- Label the trigger in one line
- Is this a real risk? Or a reflex?
- Wash hands or clean the area once
- Choose one protective step
- Limit exposure to similar content
- Ask, “Is my reaction proportionate?”
Bad Ideas
- Obsessively clean and recheck
- Ignore the actual risk, fixate on “ick”
- Let disgust justify cruelty or bullying
- Dehumanize any people involved
- Dwell on the image for hours
- Force upsetting material on others
- Let your feelings outweigh facts