The fear of the number 69 is called hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia. This unusual phobia stems from the meaning associated with the number 69, which is often used as a reference to the sexual position of mutual oral sex between two partners. Let’s explore more about this phobia and its origins.
What does 69 mean?
The number 69 is often used to refer to the sex position where two partners simultaneously perform oral sex on each other – one partner orally pleasures the genitals of their partner, while also receiving oral sex from their partner. This position allows for mutual pleasure and satisfaction.
The numbers 6 and 9 represent the physical positioning of the bodies during this sexual act, with the partners arranged top-to-tail. The iconic shape and symmetry of the numbers 6 and 9 evoke the visual imagery associated with this intimate position.
Origins of the meaning of 69
The exact origins of using “69” to refer to this sexual act are unclear, but there are a few theories:
- The numbers 6 and 9 graphically represent the interlocked, symmetrical positioning of the bodies during simultaneous oral sex.
- The numbers 6 and 9 flipped upside down graphically resemble the physical act.
- The numbers 6 and 9 allude to the yin and yang of sexual reciprocity and interdependence.
- Use of “69” as sexual slang originated from the French term “soixante-neuf” which also means sixty-nine.
The term “69” as a reference to simultaneous oral sex gained widespread popularity by the mid-20th century. It became a shorthand euphemism in mainstream culture and erotica for discussing this type of sexual activity.
What is hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia?
Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia is the persistent and irrational fear of the number 69. As a specific phobia, it falls under the broad category of numerophobia – fear of numbers and calculations. However, unlike most numerophobias which focus on math anxiety, hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia is driven by the sexual association with the number 69.
People suffering from this phobia experience excessive fear, anxiety, disgust or discomfort at the sight or thought of the number 69. They may go out of their way to avoid seeing or saying the number in any context. Symptoms of hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia may include:
- Feelings of panic, terror, dread, rapid heartbeat, sweating
- Nausea, urge to vomit
- Difficulty breathing, choking sensation
- Desire to flee or escape the situation
- In severe cases, fainting or seizures
As with most phobias, the fear and reactions are excessive, irrational and disproportionate to any actual danger posed by the number. The sufferer realizes their fear is irrational but they cannot control their reactions. This phobia can severely impact daily functioning and quality of life.
Causes and origins
As with most phobias and anxiety disorders, hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia likely arises from a complex combination of factors:
- Genetics: A tendency towards anxiety disorders and phobias may be inherited
- Brain chemistry: Imbalances in certain neurotransmitters like serotonin may contribute to developing phobias
- Past trauma: Negative or traumatic experiences associated with sexuality and intimacy may cause a phobia of sexual numbers like 69
- Life experiences: Humiliation, shame or anxiety related to one’s view of sex, pornography addiction or other factors may trigger this phobia
- Personality: Neurotic or “highly sensitive” personality types may be more prone to phobias
In some cases, hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia may stem from religious or moral beliefs that view some sexual acts like oral sex as taboo, sinful or disgusting. The number 69 triggers unpleasant feelings of shame, guilt or sinfulness for these individuals.
Overcoming the phobia
Like most phobias, the most effective treatment for hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with graded exposure to the feared stimulus. This may include:
- Learning relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation and mindfulness
- Facing fears gradually – starting by viewing the number 69, then saying it aloud, writing it down and engaging in other related activities in a hierarchical approach
- Changing negative thought patterns about the number’s meaning
- Understanding the irrationality of the fear and putting risks in perspective
- Reframing associations – linking 69 with positive meanings like yin-yang or reciprocity
With professional help and continual practice, even severe cases of hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia can be successfully managed and overcome. The individual can go on to lead a healthy, normal life.
Interesting facts about hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia
- Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia is sometimes referred to as hexaphobia for short.
- This phobia is believed to be quite rare, but prevalence is unknown since it is not officially classified as a diagnosis in the DSM-5 psychiatric manual.
- While fear of 69 stems from its sexual meaning, for some individuals any numbers containing 6 and 9 may trigger anxiety – like 96, 69000 etc.
- Some people with this phobia dislike saying or writing other “sensual” numbers like 420.
- In entertainment and pop culture, films, shows or products rated PG-13 deliberately avoid using 69 due to its sexual connotations.
Conclusion
Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia shows the powerful impact numbers can have when imbued with cultural meanings, symbolism and taboos. For a small subset of individuals, the number 69 invokes extremely fearful and anxious reactions due to its sexual associations. With therapy and self-care strategies, conquering this phobia is possible for a better quality of life. Understanding unusual phobias like this also gives insight into the complexities of human psychology.