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The Ocean in Ancient Mythology: How Do These Stories Influence Our Fear of the Deep?
The ocean is a mysterious and incredible place. Its vastness and depth fascinate humans, but also inspire deep fear. This fear is called "thalassophobia" in psychology. It is closely related to factors such as the depth of the water, changes in waves, and the lurking of marine life. People's fear of the ocean not only stems from physiological and psychological responses, but is also deeply rooted in culture and mythology.
“Through myth, we learn from the wisdom and fears of the past, and the image of the ocean becomes more complex.”
The root of fear
The cause of thalassophobia is not yet fully understood, but multiple studies believe that this fear is closely related to the evolution of humans. Early humans relied on land for survival, and naturally developed a fear of entering unfamiliar and potentially dangerous waters. Research suggests that this fear of the unknown may be an instinctive response to an obsession with survival.
"From an evolutionary perspective, the fear and avoidance of deep water is reasonable."
The influence of mythology and culture
The ocean is often depicted in various cultures as a site of disaster and punishment. In the Christian Bible, the story of Noah's Ark illustrates the destructive power of sea water. In Shakespeare's "The Tempest", shipwreck is the core plot, which brings an ominous and evil image to the sea. These stories not only influenced literary works, but also shaped people's fear of the ocean.
"From ancient times to the present, literature and film have used the mystery of the ocean to create fear."
For example, the 1975 movie Jaws is considered a symbol of cultural contagion, causing many people to have a sharp rise in fear of the ocean. In addition, media reports of shark attacks have further heightened public anxiety. These cultural contents combine with humans' instinctive fear of deep water, making the ocean a symbol of fear.
The influence of past experience
Personal past experiences may also be a trigger for thalassophobia. Having had an experience of near-drowning or fear in the water may leave a person with a lasting fear of the ocean. Additionally, observing a parent or significant other exhibit fear in the water may also influence a person's perception of water.
Analysis of psychological theory
Psychologists try to explain thalassophobia as a primitive fear. Human vision is crucial to our role in prey and survival, and the darkness of the deep sea robs us of this perception. Carl Jung mentioned that the symbolism of water often reflects a person's deepest desires and fears.
"The human psyche is inextricably linked to the ocean, forming the basis of fear."
Symptoms and treatment of thalassophobia
Talanophobia can manifest as emotional and physical symptoms, such as anxiety, panic attacks, sweating, rapid heartbeat, etc. Many people's fear of the ocean causes them to avoid activities such as swimming, diving or simply walking on the beach.
While fear may not be completely eradicated, psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and systematic desensitization can help patients progressively face their fears and learn to deal with their fears in healthier ways. Medication can also be a complementary approach, especially when symptoms are severe.
In recent years, many psychologists have used technologies such as virtual reality to conduct exposure therapy, allowing patients to gradually face their fears in a safe environment, which has achieved certain results in treatment.
The connection between the ocean and our hearts reflects our deepest fears and desire for adventure. In the long river of mythology and culture, can we understand the origin of these fears and bravely face the unknown lurking in the depths?
