Feeling Disgusted vs. Feeling Disgusting

Attribute	Feeling Disgusted	Feeling Disgusting
Definition	Experiencing a strong aversion or revulsion towards something	Causing a strong aversion or revulsion in others
Subject	Person experiencing the feeling	Person or thing causing the feeling
Emotion	Internal emotional state	External reaction or perception
Response	Internal feeling of disgust	External display of disgust

Definition

Feeling disgusted and feeling disgusting are two related but distinct emotional experiences. When someone feels disgusted, they are experiencing a strong aversion or revulsion towards something. This could be triggered by a sight, smell, taste, or idea that is perceived as offensive or repulsive. On the other hand, feeling disgusting refers to the internal sensation of being unclean, repulsive, or unworthy. It is a self-directed feeling of disgust towards oneself.

Physical Manifestations

When someone feels disgusted, they may exhibit physical signs such as wrinkling their nose, covering their mouth, or even gagging in extreme cases. This physical reaction is a natural response to the perceived threat of contamination or harm. On the other hand, feeling disgusting may manifest in behaviors such as avoiding mirrors, showering excessively, or wearing baggy clothing to hide one's body. These behaviors are often driven by a deep sense of shame or self-disgust.

Causes

The feeling of disgust is typically triggered by external stimuli that are perceived as unclean, offensive, or harmful. This could include encountering spoiled food, witnessing a gruesome scene, or hearing a disturbing story. On the other hand, feeling disgusting is often rooted in internal factors such as low self-esteem, body image issues, or past trauma. These internal struggles can lead to a pervasive sense of self-disgust that colors one's perception of themselves and the world around them.

Duration

Feelings of disgust are usually temporary and can dissipate once the triggering stimulus is removed or the situation is resolved. For example, someone may feel disgusted by a foul odor but feel fine once they leave the area. On the other hand, feeling disgusting can be more persistent and chronic, as it is often tied to deep-seated beliefs and emotions about oneself. This self-directed disgust may linger long after the initial trigger has passed.

Impact on Mental Health

Experiencing feelings of disgust can be a normal and healthy response to certain situations, as it helps protect us from potential harm or contamination. However, chronic feelings of disgust can contribute to anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or other mental health issues. On the other hand, feeling disgusting can have a significant impact on one's mental health, leading to depression, self-harm, or even suicidal thoughts. The constant self-criticism and shame associated with feeling disgusting can erode one's sense of self-worth and overall well-being.

Coping Mechanisms

When someone feels disgusted, they may cope by avoiding the triggering stimulus, practicing deep breathing exercises, or seeking support from others. These coping mechanisms can help alleviate the immediate feelings of disgust and restore a sense of calm. On the other hand, coping with feelings of self-disgust may require therapy, self-compassion practices, or medication. It is important for individuals experiencing self-disgust to seek professional help and develop healthy coping strategies to address the underlying issues.

Relationship to Empathy

Feeling disgusted can sometimes be linked to empathy, as it can be a response to witnessing suffering or injustice. This empathetic disgust can motivate individuals to take action to alleviate the source of their discomfort. On the other hand, feeling disgusting may hinder one's ability to empathize with others, as the focus is often turned inward towards one's own perceived flaws and shortcomings. Overcoming feelings of self-disgust can be a crucial step towards developing empathy and compassion for oneself and others.