Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Tabu / Español: Tabú / Português: Tabu / Français: Tabou / Italiano: Tabù /

Taboo is defined as prohibition of a behavior, thing, person, and many other which is based on cultural or social norms. Taboo also means forbidden or banned.

In psychology, taboo refers to a social or cultural prohibition against certain thoughts, behaviors, or objects, often related to sex, death, and bodily functions. Taboos can vary widely across cultures and may serve different purposes, such as maintaining social order or avoiding potential harm.

One example of a taboo is the prohibition against incest. In many societies, it is considered morally and socially unacceptable for individuals to engage in sexual relationships with close family members, such as siblings or parents. Other taboos may include restrictions on certain foods or behaviors, such as not eating certain animals or not engaging in certain sexual practices.

Taboos can have a powerful influence on people's behavior and can shape their attitudes and beliefs. Breaking a taboo can lead to social disapproval, ostracism, or even punishment, while adhering to a taboo can signal one's membership in a particular social group and help reinforce social norms.

Similar concepts to taboo include:

1. Stigma: Refers to negative attitudes and beliefs about a certain group of people, often leading to discrimination and exclusion from society. Examples include stigmatization of mental illness, HIV/AIDS, or disabilities.

2. Social norms: Refers to the unwritten rules and expectations that govern behavior in a given society. Norms can vary across cultures and may include expectations for dress, language, or behavior in different social situations.

3. Cultural relativism: Refers to the idea that different cultures have different values and beliefs, and that one's own cultural perspective should not be used to judge or evaluate the practices of other cultures.

4. Moral outrage: Refers to the strong emotional response that people may have when they perceive a violation of moral or ethical principles. Moral outrage can lead to social movements, protests, or other forms of collective action aimed at addressing perceived injustices.

In conclusion, taboo refers to a social or cultural prohibition against certain thoughts, behaviors, or objects, often related to sex, death, and bodily functions. Breaking a taboo can lead to social disapproval or even punishment, while adhering to a taboo can signal one's membership in a particular social group and help reinforce social norms. Similar concepts to taboo include stigma, social norms, cultural relativism, and moral outrage.