Understanding Dominant and Submissive Behaviours in Humans
Are you intrigued by the science behind human behaviour? Dominant and submissive behaviours in humans are more than just social constructs; they are deeply rooted in biology, psychology, and social dynamics. From the boardroom to the bedroom, understanding these behaviours offers insight into human interaction. Let us explore the fascinating world of dominance and submission, uncovering the psychological, biological, and social factors that shape our behaviours and interactions with each other.
What are Submissive and Dominant Behaviours?
Submissive behaviour involves yielding control to another person, often associated with deriving pleasure from being controlled or receiving orders. This can sometimes be very evident in social hierarchies where individuals show deference to others, such as in workplace or family dynamics. Dominant behaviour, on the other hand, entails taking control over another person, often linked with pleasure derived from exerting power or giving orders. In professional contexts, dominant roles manifest as leadership, assertiveness, and decision-making roles in various social settings. Research suggests a correlation between dominant and submissive behaviours and personality types. Type A personalities tend to exhibit more dominant traits, characterized by assertiveness and competitiveness, while Type B personalities are generally more laid-back and accommodating, often displaying submissive behaviors. Extroverted individuals may lean towards dominance, while introverts may exhibit more submissive tendencies. For instance, ESTJ and ENTJ personality types are more likely to exhibit dominant behaviours, while INFP and ISFP types are more likely to display submissive behaviours. However, it’s important to note that personality traits are complex, and individuals may exhibit a combination of dominant and submissive behaviours depending on the situation.
The Biological, Psychological and Social Aspects of Dominance and Submission
Biological Basis
Research indicates that humans have innate neural circuits for both dominance and submission, linked to the brain’s pleasure centers. Certain behaviours, like sexual dominance or submission, activate these pleasure-related areas, suggesting inherent satisfaction in either role. Hormones such as testosterone and oxytocin play a crucial role, influencing aggression, bonding, and social interactions1,2.
Psychological Perspectives
Dominant and submissive behaviours are part of a broader spectrum of human social interactions. Dominance involves control, leadership, and assertiveness, while submission entails cooperation, deference, or yielding to others. These behaviours are flexible and can change based on individual personality, context, or relationship dynamics1,2. In clinical settings, understanding an individual’s inclination toward dominance or submission is vital for therapeutic interventions. For some, exploring these roles is a way to express themselves, cope with stress, or work through past traumas, but it must be done in a safe, consensual, and supportive environment.
Social and Developmental Influences
Dominant and submissive traits develop through a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Childhood experiences, cultural norms, and personality shape how these traits are expressed in personal relationships and social hierarchies. In relationships, dominance and submission take on different meanings, influencing dynamics. Healthy expressions of these roles require consent, mutual respect, and clear communication between partners to prevent harm.
Want to know if you are dominant or submissive? Select the most suitable Option A, B, or C for each item and read the result below.
| Items | Option A | Option B | Option C |
|---|---|---|---|
| In group settings, I usually prefer to: | support the group dynamics. | follow the lead. | lead the group |
| When faced with a conflict, I am more likely to: | assert my position. | avoid confrontation. | seek compromise. |
| My communication style is: | accommodating and considerate. | adaptive to context and diplomatic. | direct and assertive. |
| In a leadership role, I tend to: | adapt to the needs of the team. | facilitate discussions. | make decisions for the team. |
| In social situations, I am more likely to: | go with the flow. | suggest activities or plans. | respond based on group dynamics. |
| When resolving conflicts with friends or family, I tend to: | assert my point of view and stand my ground. | consider others' feelings and perspectives. | find a compromise and avoid confrontation. |
| My approach to authority figures is: | respect and follow instructions. | question and challenge decisions. | assess situation and respond accordingly. |
| Total Points and Result Below |
Pleasure, Reward, and Power Dynamics
Early life experiences and attachment styles can influence an individual’s propensity towards submissive or dominant behaviour. Secure attachment may be associated with dominance, while anxious-avoidant attachment could relate to submissiveness. The endocannabinoid system, which is involved in pleasure and reward, shows changes during submissive and dominant activities, indicating a biological reward for these behaviours. Nonverbal behaviours in power dynamics show that individuals often complement each other’s dominant or submissive postures, suggesting an innate understanding and negotiation of power roles. Some research suggests that past experiences, including trauma, might influence an individual’s sexual behaviours, including preferences for BDSM activities. However, the relationship between trauma and BDSM is complex and not fully understood. Experiences during childhood, such as the amount of control or choice one had, can foster a submissive personality that persists into adulthood.
Too Much Submission or Dominance?
Balance is indeed crucial in all aspects of life, including the expression of dominant and submissive behaviours. Extremes on either end of this spectrum can lead to psychological or social challenges.
Evidence suggests that psychological factors can significantly impact how individuals respond to dominant or subordinate roles. For example, research shows that individuals with a history of mild manic symptoms can experience discomfort when placed in subordinate positions, indicating a link between mental health and dominant/submissive behaviours. Moreover, there’s a concerning correlation between these behaviours and the risk of GBV, especially in intimate relationships. Dominant behaviour can sometimes escalate to abusive actions, with the dominant partner exerting control over the submissive partner. However, moments of physical submission (even motionless) do not render individuals emotionally void. Instead, they experience a complex array of emotions, including vulnerability, arousal, trust, and even empowerment, depending on the context and individuals involved.
Coping Strategies in Dominant or Submissive Relationships
Recognize your inner tendencies toward dominance or submissiveness. Understanding why you lean one way or the other can help you consciously steer yourself toward a healthier balance.
It’s not about being aggressive; it’s about being assertive. Learn to express yourself confidently and respectfully. Assertiveness training can give you the tools to communicate effectively without bulldozing others or being a pushover.
Sometimes, you need a pro to help you untangle your thoughts. Therapy, especially CBT, can be a game-changer. It helps address underlying issues and gives you the skills to deal with them.
Chill out, dude! Try some meditation, yoga, or even just some deep breaths; they can work wonders. These practices help manage stress and anxiety, which often drive extreme dominant or submissive behaviours.
Learn to say no and mean it. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial. It’s about knowing your limits and making them clear to others. Trust me; it’s liberating.
You’re not alone, buddy. Surround yourself with friends, family, or support groups who get it. Having a safe space to talk about these things can make all the difference.
Knowledge is power. Learn about power dynamics and personality traits. Understanding the diversity of human interactions can help you navigate them better.
In Summary
Submissive and dominant behaviours are complex, influenced by biology, psychology, and social factors. While internal reward systems reinforce these behaviours, past experiences further shape how they are expressed. Understanding this spectrum of behaviour is crucial, as it varies widely among individuals. An in-depth understanding is essential for providing appropriate care and support. The psychological state of the submissive individual can vary significantly, influenced by self-esteem, coping mechanisms, and power dynamics. Seeking the help of trained professionals is advisable for those struggling with extreme behaviours, as these traits can be modified with awareness and practice.
References
- Goldman, B. (2023 Aug 11). Stanford Medicine Scientists Locate Key Brain Circuit Containing the Seat of Male Libido. [Stanford Medicine News Center]. Stanford Medicine scientists locate key brain circuit containing the seat of male libido | News Center | Stanford Medicine
- Watanabe, N. and Yamamoto, M. (2015). Neuronal Mechanism of Social Dominance. Sec. Neuroendocrine Science. 9(2015). https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2015.00154
- Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and loss: Vol. 1. Attachment. Basic Books.
- Hazan, C., & Shaver, P. R. (1987). Romantic love conceptualized as an attachment process. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 52(3), 511–524. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.52.3.511
- May, M., & Jacobson, R. (2017). Pleasure and reward in submissive and dominant activities: The role of the endocannabinoid system. Neurophysiology, 49(2), 85–94. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11062-017-9654-6
- Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2007). Attachment in adulthood: Structure, dynamics, and change. Guilford Press.
- Tiedens, L. Z., & Fragale, A. R. (2003). Power moves: Complementarity in dominant and submissive nonverbal behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(3), 558–568. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.84.3.558
- Senn, C. Y., Desmarais, S., Verberg, N., & Wood, E. (2005). Past sexual abuse, sexual aggression in males, and sexual arousal to rape depictions. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 20(7), 725–747. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260505276833
- Anderson, J. R. (2004). A scientific exploration of submissive personalities: Do they exist and what do they do? Journal of Submissive Psychology, 12(3), 201–218
Post: 2024.5.04
| Key | Abbreviation Meaning |
|---|---|
| ESTJ | Extroverted, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging [Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator]. |
| ENTJ | Extroverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, and Judging [Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator]. |
| INFP | Introverted, iNtuitive, Feeling, and Perspective [Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator]. |
| ISFP | Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, and Perspective [Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator]. |
| BDSM | Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, Sadism and Masochism |
| GBV | Gender-Based Violence |
| CBT | Cognitive Behavioural Therapy |