Why do we get the ‘ick’?
Summary
Sex therapist Emily Power-Smith joins Moncrieff on Newstalk to debunk the viral "ick" trend, arguing that sudden disgust is not an evolutionary adaptation but a socially conditioned reaction driven by toxic perfectionism and social media. She criticizes the dramatic language used on platforms like TikTok, which equates minor personal preferences with genuine disgust, and emphasizes that such judgments often stem from outdated class standards rather than healthy relationship dynamics. Power-Smith advocates for authentic communication and self-reflection over superficial criticism, noting tha…
Topics discussed
Introduction to 'The Ick' and guest Emily Power-Smith
Debunking the evolutionary basis of disgust in dating
Social conditioning vs. genuine disgust reactions
The role of dramatic language and social media trends
Patriarchy, class, and judging partners on small habits
How societal standards for 'the ick' change over time
Making personal choices about partner flaws
The toxicity of perfectionism in relationships
Who experiences 'the ick' and the need for self-reflection
Prioritizing communication and authenticity over judgment
Listener feedback and the rise of opinion as fact
Therapist perspective on dismissing professional advice
The danger of social media opinions replacing expertise
Listener texts on relationship dynamics and thoughtfulness
Show sign-off and government housing advertisement
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