Zoophilia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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zoophilia
[zuːəˈfɪliə ]
Definition
sexual attraction
Zoophilia refers to a sexual attraction to animals. It is considered a paraphilia and is illegal in many jurisdictions due to ethical concerns regarding animal welfare. People who exhibit zoophilic tendencies may have difficulty forming relationships with other humans.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He was charged with zoophilia for his actions.
- Zoophilia is often discussed in the context of animal rights.
- There is a significant stigma against those who engage in zoophilia.
- Awareness about zoophilia has increased in recent years.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal Aspects
- In many countries, zoophilia is considered illegal due to animal welfare laws that protect animals from harm and exploitation.
- Laws vary significantly; in some places, it may be classified as a form of animal cruelty, while in others, laws might not explicitly mention it.
Psychological Perspectives
- Some psychologists view zoophilia as part of a broader spectrum of paraphilia, which includes atypical sexual interests.
- Treatment for individuals with such inclinations may involve therapeutic approaches focused on understanding underlying issues and promoting healthier relationships.
Cultural Context
- Zoophilia has been a taboo subject in most cultures, often leading to social stigma for those who feel such attractions.
- In literature and art, animals frequently symbolize innocence and freedom, contrasting with the idea of human attraction to them.
Animal Welfare
- Animal rights advocates emphasize that animals cannot give consent, thus any sexual act with an animal is deemed unethical.
- Educational programs aimed at promoting animal welfare focus on creating respectful and healthy relationships between humans and animals.
Origin of 'zoophilia'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'zoo' meaning 'animal' and 'philia' meaning 'love' or 'affection.'
- Early references to animal attraction can be traced in various cultures, but the specific term 'zoophilia' was popularized in the late 20th century.
The term 'zoophilia' is derived from the Greek words 'zoo' meaning 'animal' and 'philia' meaning 'love' or 'affection'. It first entered the clinical literature in the late 19th century as a way to categorize various paraphilic behaviors. The understanding of zoophilia has evolved over the decades, reflecting changes in societal norms and attitudes towards both sexuality and animal rights. Ethical discussions surrounding zoophilia have become more prominent as awareness grows around welfare issues affecting animals, prompting legal systems in various countries to impose strict penalties for such acts. Consequently, zoophilia remains a controversial subject, intersecting with legal, ethical, and psychological fields.