Psychological Phenomena That Are Mobilized At Christmas: 6 Examples
Christmas is a time of twinkling lights, festive scents, family gatherings, and joyful Christmas carols. However, the possibility of thinking about the influence it has on our emotions and psychology often goes unnoticed. For example, in different psychobiological studies it has been observed that this season triggers the release of serotonin and endorphins. Have you stopped to think about everything that influences us psychologically about Christmas?
For example, anticipating family gatherings and participating in long-held traditions help build strong emotional bonds. Social connection and emotional support during this season can have lasting positive effects on mental health. However, we cannot ignore that, in some cases, social pressure to experience excessive happiness can generate psychological tensions and that not all people have families with whom they feel safe and cared for.
In this article, we are going to discuss different phenomena that appear during Christmas and that have an impact on our emotions, psychology and, ultimately, our well-being We will offer six examples; three of them positive and three, negative.
We are going to start by discussing different aspects of Christmas that generally have a positive impact on our mind, emotions and well-being. These not only improve individual mood, but also contribute to social cohesion. The combination of strengthened family bonds, expressions of affection through gifts, and shared joy during celebrations creates an emotionally and psychologically enriching Christmas experience.
Family gatherings, in most cases, are understood as moments for emotional connection and strengthening these ties Seeing a relative who lives abroad again, seeing how the youngest members of the family grow and feeling the unity of the family dining and sharing space under the same roof. In addition, Christmas also offers moments to strengthen ties with other people; organize business dinners, an invisible gift with your classmates or a celebration dinner with your lifelong friends.
2. Gifts and surprises
As we already know, Christmas is generally marked by the exchange of gifts. Virtually everyone likes to receive a gift or surprise; from a new dollhouse to the latest model tablet. Furthermore, moving away from this materiality of giving and receiving, gifts are also a symbol of the expression of affection and care. The anticipation and surprise associated with gifts add a special emotional layer generating gratitude and reinforcing emotional ties, thus making Christmas an even more rewarding experience.
3. Celebration and rest
The festive nature of the holiday season provides a welcome break from the daily routine. Like all festive processes, having vacations at work, school or university offers a few days to disconnect from daily routines and focus mainly on doing everything we want. The celebrations offer a perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy the company of loved ones and reflect on the year that has passed. This time of rest is essential for emotional balance and renewal of energy for the new year.
Negative aspects of Christmas
Next, we will define some aspects of Christmas that have negative and painful reactions on the people who experience them, and that will help us stop understanding Christmas as a purely joyful and celebratory time. By addressing these challenges, Christmas can be transformed into a season that not only celebrates joy and togetherness, but also nurtures empathy and solidarity in our society
The paradox of loneliness in the midst of the Christmas celebration is a reality for many people. It is important to realize that having a family that can come together and is caring for all members is not an option for everyone. People who do not have a good relationship with their family, or, directly, do not have a family to turn to, experience high social pressure of happiness imposed during these periods. Therefore, these processes can intensify the feeling of isolation for all people who, for example, face the loss of loved ones or are geographically separated from their families
2. Disstructured families
As we have been commenting before, although Christmas is usually understood as highlighting the importance of family unity, for some people, this time can exacerbate tensions in unstructured families. These families are not a safe place in which celebrations are possible, but rather, on many occasions, they become sources of pain and spaces in which to relive traumas or painful experiences from the past Unrealistic expectations and comparison to Christmas ideals can lead to conflict, exacerbating already fragile family dynamics.
3. Poverty and hyperconsumption
While the holiday season invites generosity, the pressure of hyperconsumption can aggravate financial distress. The gap between people who can fully participate in shopping and those who face financial limitations can contribute to feelings of exclusion and anxiety. Christmas is usually completely linked to exorbitant consumption, but keeping up with this consumption is only possible for few people within society.
Conclusions
Christmas, with its complex mix of joy and challenges, highlights the importance of empathy and understanding. Although the season evokes positive emotions, we must not overlook the difficulties that some face. By acknowledging loneliness, family tensions, and economic stresses, we can cultivate a more inclusive and supportive Christmas. Ultimately, reflecting on these dimensions enriches our appreciation of the diversity of experiences during this festive time of year.
