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{{Short description|Sexual attraction to the stomach or belly}}
{{Short description|Sexual attraction to the stomach or belly}}
[[File:Hüfthose.jpg|thumb|A woman exposing her belly]]
[[File:Hüfthose.jpg|thumb|A woman wearing a [[crop top]] and [[low rise jeans]], leaving her belly exposed]]
A '''belly fetish''' (also known as a '''stomach fetish''', or '''alvinolagnia''')'''<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Holmes |first1=Ronald M. |title=Psychology |last2=Holmes |first2=Stephen T. |publisher=Sage Publications |year=2002 |isbn=9780761924173 |edition=2, illustrated, reprint |pages=19 |chapter=Sex crimes: patterns and behavior}}</ref>''' is a [[partialism]] in which an individual is sexually attracted to the [[midriff]]<ref>{{cite web |title=CRM 397 : Sex Offences |url=http://criminology.missouristate.edu/assets/criminology/CRM_397-899_Fall_2013_Syllabus.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714171709/http://criminology.missouristate.edu/assets/criminology/CRM_397-899_Fall_2013_Syllabus.pdf |archive-date=2014-07-14 |access-date=8 July 2014 |website=criminology.missouristate.edu}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Rosalyn Sternberg |title=Understanding Sexual Fetishes And Paraphilias |url=http://kinseyconfidential.org/sexual-fetish-blog-post/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170304191119/https://kinseyconfidential.org/sexual-fetish-blog-post/ |archive-date=4 March 2017 |access-date=8 July 2014 |website=kinseyconfidential.org |df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=John Curra |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mbCNAQAAQBAJ&q=Alvinolagnia&pg=PT188 |title=The Relativity of Deviance |date=8 May 2013 |publisher=SAGE Publications |isbn=9781483321202 |access-date=8 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=Ian Kerner |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QrrJqyrEWzMC&q=Alvinolagnia&pg=PA221 |title=Good in Bed Guide to 52 Weeks of Amazing Sex |author2=Steph Auteri |publisher=Good in Bed Guides |isbn=978-0984322152 |page=221 |access-date=6 July 2014 }}{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Susan Scutti |date=2014-06-12 |title=The Museum Of Sex Will Teach You About Your Sexual Nature And Possible Fetishes |url=http://www.medicaldaily.com/museum-sex-will-teach-you-about-your-sexual-nature-and-possible-fetishes-287978 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714230807/http://www.medicaldaily.com/museum-sex-will-teach-you-about-your-sexual-nature-and-possible-fetishes-287978 |archive-date=14 July 2014 |access-date=6 July 2014 |website=medicaldaily.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=Sep 16, 2012 |title=Dirty Sex Dictionary |agency=Daily Loaf |url=http://cltampa.com/dailyloaf/archives/2012/09/16/dirty-sex-dictionary#.VbKSNPmqqkq |url-status=live |access-date=24 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150719134038/http://cltampa.com/dailyloaf/archives/2012/09/16/dirty-sex-dictionary#.VbKSNPmqqkq |archive-date=19 July 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Purnis |first=Jan |date=2010 |title=Digestive Tracts: Early Modern Discourses of Digestion |journal=University of Toronto |pages=25–26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Maddan |first1=Sean |last2=Pazzani |first2=Lynn |date=2017 |title=Sex Offenders: Crime and Processing in the Criminal Justice System |journal=Aspen Criminal Justice Series |pages=56 |isbn=978-1454887232}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Curra |first=John |date=2019 |title=The Relativity of Deviance |edition=5 |publisher=SAGE Publications |pages=192 |isbn=978-1544309231}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Snow |first=William Benham |date=1917 |others=American Association of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology, American Electrotherapeutic Association, International Association of Climatologists, New York Electrotherapeutic Society (New York, N.Y.) |title=The American Journal of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology, Volume 35 |journal=The American Journal of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology |volume=35 |pages=48–49}}</ref> or [[Abdomen|belly]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Paul Convery |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AZfayFbCEzEC&q=alvinolagnia&pg=PA13 |title=Inkhorn's Erotonomicon: An Advanced Sexual Vocabulary for Verbivores and Vulgarians |date=2012 |publisher=Troubador Publishing |isbn=978-1780883151 |volume=1 |page=13 |access-date=6 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1886 |title=Chat of the Clubs |page=6 |newspaper=The Dart and Midland Figaro |location=The Ohio State University}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Charnock |first=Stephen |title=The Complete Works of Stephen Charnock |date=1864 |publisher=James Nichol |volume=1 |pages=240}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=V.Gallery |first=Daniel |title=Eight Bells, and All's Well |publisher=the University of Michigan |year=1965 |pages=299}}</ref>
A '''belly fetish''' (also known as a '''stomach fetish''', or '''alvinolagnia''')'''<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Holmes |first1=Ronald M. |title=Psychology |last2=Holmes |first2=Stephen T. |publisher=Sage Publications |year=2002 |isbn=9780761924173 |edition=2, illustrated, reprint |pages=19 |chapter=Sex crimes: patterns and behavior}}</ref>''' is a [[partialism]] in which an individual is sexually attracted to the [[midriff]]<ref>{{cite web |title=CRM 397 : Sex Offences |url=http://criminology.missouristate.edu/assets/criminology/CRM_397-899_Fall_2013_Syllabus.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714171709/http://criminology.missouristate.edu/assets/criminology/CRM_397-899_Fall_2013_Syllabus.pdf |archive-date=2014-07-14 |access-date=8 July 2014 |website=Criminology - Missouri State University }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sternberg |first1=Rosalyn |title=Understanding Sexual Fetishes And Paraphilias |url=http://kinseyconfidential.org/sexual-fetish-blog-post/ |date=April 16, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170304191119/https://kinseyconfidential.org/sexual-fetish-blog-post/ |archive-date=4 March 2017 |access-date=8 July 2014 |website=Kinsey Confidential |df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name=Curra>{{cite book |last1=Curra |first1=John |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mbCNAQAAQBAJ&q=Alvinolagnia&pg=PT188 |title=The Relativity of Deviance |date=8 May 2013 |publisher=SAGE Publications |isbn=9781483321202 |access-date=8 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=Ian Kerner |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QrrJqyrEWzMC&q=Alvinolagnia&pg=PA221 |title=Good in Bed Guide to 52 Weeks of Amazing Sex |author2=Steph Auteri |publisher=Good in Bed Guides |isbn=978-0984322152 |page=221 |access-date=6 July 2014 }}{{Dead link|date=November 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Scutti |first1=Susan |date=2014-06-12 |title=The Museum Of Sex Will Teach You About Your Sexual Nature And Possible Fetishes |url=http://www.medicaldaily.com/museum-sex-will-teach-you-about-your-sexual-nature-and-possible-fetishes-287978 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714230807/http://www.medicaldaily.com/museum-sex-will-teach-you-about-your-sexual-nature-and-possible-fetishes-287978 |archive-date=14 July 2014 |access-date=6 July 2014 |website=Medical Daily }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=Sep 16, 2012 |title=Dirty Sex Dictionary |agency=Daily Loaf |url=http://cltampa.com/dailyloaf/archives/2012/09/16/dirty-sex-dictionary#.VbKSNPmqqkq |publisher=Creative Loafing Tampa |url-status=dead |access-date=24 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150719134038/http://cltampa.com/dailyloaf/archives/2012/09/16/dirty-sex-dictionary#.VbKSNPmqqkq |archive-date=19 July 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Purnis |first=Jan |date=2010 |title=Digestive Tracts: Early Modern Discourses of Digestion |journal=University of Toronto |pages=25–26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Maddan |first1=Sean |last2=Pazzani |first2=Lynn |date=2017 |title=Sex Offenders: Crime and Processing in the Criminal Justice System |journal=Aspen Criminal Justice Series |pages=56 |isbn=978-1454887232}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Snow |first=William Benham |date=1917 |others=American Association of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology, American Electrotherapeutic Association, International Association of Climatologists, New York Electrotherapeutic Society (New York, N.Y.) |title=The American Journal of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology, Volume 35 |journal=The American Journal of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology |volume=35 |pages=48–49}}</ref> or [[Abdomen|belly]].<ref>{{cite book |author=Paul Convery |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AZfayFbCEzEC&q=alvinolagnia&pg=PA13 |title=Inkhorn's Erotonomicon: An Advanced Sexual Vocabulary for Verbivores and Vulgarians |date=2012 |publisher=Troubador Publishing |isbn=978-1780883151 |volume=1 |page=13 |access-date=6 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1886 |title=Chat of the Clubs |page=6 |newspaper=The Dart and Midland Figaro |location=The Ohio State University}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Charnock |first=Stephen |title=The Complete Works of Stephen Charnock |date=1864 |publisher=James Nichol |volume=1 |pages=240}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Swedenborg |first=Emanuel |title=Of Heaven and its wonders, and of Hell, from what have been heard and seen. Translated from the original Latin, published in London 1758 |year=1860 |pages=286}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=V.Gallery |first=Daniel |title=Eight Bells, and All's Well |publisher=the University of Michigan |year=1965 |pages=299}}</ref>


== Description ==
== Description ==
The belly is widely considered as an [[Erogenous zone|erogenous region]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Pallavi Tyagi |date=Jul 31, 2012 |title=Most pleasurable moan zones! |work=Times of India |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/man-woman/Most-pleasurable-moan-zones/pmredirectshow/3599131.cms?curpg=2 |url-status=live |access-date=25 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170905111807/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/man-woman/Most-pleasurable-moan-zones/pmredirectshow/3599131.cms?curpg=2 |archive-date=5 September 2017}}</ref> meaning it holds multiple nerve endings that make it sensitive to various sensations.<ref name="Vice Media Group">{{cite news |last1=Arman Khan |date=Aug 20, 2022 |title=What Is Navel Play? A Beginner's Guide to Belly Button Fetishes |work=Vice Media Group |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/epzpv4/navel-play-belly-button-fetish-sex}}</ref> Therefore, having a belly fetish usually coincides with belly-related sexual acts including but not limited to touching/rubbing the belly region, using sex toys and other objects (e.g., food, candles, ice, feathers, massage oils) to stimulate the belly region, rubbing one's belly against a partner's belly, or licking or sucking the navel.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Krissy Brady |date=Mar 15, 2016 |title=11 Sexy Things to Do to Your Partner's Belly Button in Bed |work=Women's Health Magazine|url=https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/g19935894/belly-button-sex/}}</ref> For this reason, alvinolagnia often co-exists with [[navel fetishism]] (a.k.a., [[alvinophilia]]).<ref name="anil">{{cite book |last1=Aggrawal |first1=Anil |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uNkNhPZQprcC&q=navel |title=Forensic and medico-legal aspects of sexual crimes and unusual sexual practices |date=2009 |publisher=CRC Press |isbn=978-1420043099 |location=Boca Raton, FL |page=121 |access-date=6 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Viren Swami, Adrian Furnham |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=S83fAAAAMAAJ&q=alvinolagnia |title=The Psychology of Physical Attraction |date=2008 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-0415422505 |location=Indiana University |page=134}}</ref> Overall, the belly fetish is a form of [[partialism]].<ref name="Vice Media Group"/>
The belly is widely considered as an [[Erogenous zone|erogenous region]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Pallavi Tyagi |date=Jul 31, 2012 |title=Most pleasurable moan zones! |work=Times of India |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/man-woman/Most-pleasurable-moan-zones/pmredirectshow/3599131.cms?curpg=2 |url-status=live |access-date=25 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170905111807/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/man-woman/Most-pleasurable-moan-zones/pmredirectshow/3599131.cms?curpg=2 |archive-date=5 September 2017}}</ref> meaning it holds multiple nerve endings that make it sensitive to various sensations.<ref name="Vice Media Group">{{cite news |last1=Arman Khan |date=Aug 20, 2022 |title=What Is Navel Play? A Beginner's Guide to Belly Button Fetishes |work=Vice Media Group |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/epzpv4/navel-play-belly-button-fetish-sex}}</ref> Therefore, having a belly fetish usually coincides with belly-related sexual acts including but not limited to pressing a partner's belly, touching/rubbing the belly region, using sex toys and other objects (e.g., food, candles, ice, feathers, massage oils) to stimulate the belly region, rubbing one's belly against a partner's belly, or licking or sucking the navel.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Krissy Brady |date=Mar 15, 2016 |title=11 Sexy Things to Do to Your Partner's Belly Button in Bed |work=Women's Health Magazine|url=https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/g19935894/belly-button-sex/}}</ref> For this reason, belly fetishism (alvinolagnia) often co-exists with [[navel fetishism]] (alvinophilia).<ref name="anil">{{cite book |last1=Aggrawal |first1=Anil |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uNkNhPZQprcC&q=navel |title=Forensic and medico-legal aspects of sexual crimes and unusual sexual practices |date=2009 |publisher=CRC Press |isbn=978-1420043099 |location=Boca Raton, FL |page=121 |access-date=6 July 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Viren Swami, Adrian Furnham |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=S83fAAAAMAAJ&q=alvinolagnia |title=The Psychology of Physical Attraction |date=2008 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-0415422505 |location=Indiana University |page=134}}</ref> Overall, the belly fetish is a form of [[partialism]].<ref name="Vice Media Group"/>


===Belly-to-belly contact===
===Belly-to-belly contact===
Individuals with alvinolagnia tend to enjoy having sexual intercourse in the [[missionary position]] given the position's heightened belly-to-belly contact between partners.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Caroline Shannon-Karaskin |last2=Aryelle Siclait |last3=Lydia Wang |date=Nov 9, 2022 |title=14 Ways to Make Missionary Sex So. Much. Hotter. |work=Women's Health |url=https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/a19917201/missionary-sex/}}</ref> It is theorized that this sexual desire for belly-to-belly contact is linked to the evolutionary need for ventral-ventral contact when being nursed as an infant<ref>{{cite news |last1=Patricia McConnell |date=Feb 9, 2010 |title=Hugging |work=The Other End of the Leash |url=https://www.patriciamcconnell.com/theotherendoftheleash/hugging}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2022 |title=Skin-to-Skin Contact |work=UNICEF United Kingdom |url=https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/implementing-standards-resources/skin-to-skin-contact/#:~:text=What%20is%20skin%2Dto%2Dskin,until%20after%20the%20first%20feed.}}</ref> or to entice feelings of being nurtured and loved.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chewy Editorial |date=Jan 20, 2021 |title=Do Dogs Like Hugs? |work=BeChewy |url=https://be.chewy.com/dogs-like-hugs/}}</ref> One participant of a social experiment involving belly-to-belly contact described the act as "a very intimate thing, even when it's not meant to be."<ref>{{cite news |last1=The Doctors |date=Apr 17, 2017 |title=Do Shirtless Hugs Reduce More Stress? |work=YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVEDBMI6Cwo}}</ref>
Individuals with alvinolagnia tend to enjoy having sexual intercourse in the [[missionary position]] given the position's heightened belly-to-belly contact between partners.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Caroline Shannon-Karaskin |last2=Aryelle Siclait |last3=Lydia Wang |date=Nov 9, 2022 |title=14 Ways to Make Missionary Sex So. Much. Hotter. |work=Women's Health |url=https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/a19917201/missionary-sex/}}</ref> It is theorized that this sexual desire for belly-to-belly contact is linked to the evolutionary need for ventral-ventral contact when being nursed as an infant<ref>{{cite news |last1=Patricia McConnell |date=Feb 9, 2010 |title=Hugging |work=The Other End of the Leash |url=https://www.patriciamcconnell.com/theotherendoftheleash/hugging}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2022 |title=Skin-to-Skin Contact |work=UNICEF United Kingdom |url=https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/implementing-standards-resources/skin-to-skin-contact/#:~:text=What%20is%20skin%2Dto%2Dskin,until%20after%20the%20first%20feed.}}</ref> or to entice feelings of being nurtured and loved.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chewy Editorial |date=Jan 20, 2021 |title=Do Dogs Like Hugs? |work=BeChewy |url=https://be.chewy.com/dogs-like-hugs/}}</ref> One participant of a social experiment involving belly-to-belly contact described the act as "a very intimate thing, even when it's not meant to be."<ref>{{cite news |last1=The Doctors |date=Apr 17, 2017 |title=Do Shirtless Hugs Reduce More Stress? |work=YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVEDBMI6Cwo}}</ref>

[[File:Wiki-missionary.png|thumb|A couple demonstrating sexual belly-to-belly contact in the missionary position]]

====Evolutionary Perspective====
The evolutionary need for ventral-ventral contact may arise from the need for physical contact, which is critical for human development.<ref name="auto2">{{cite news |last1=Harry F. Barlow |date=Dec 1, 1958 |title=The Nature of Love |work=Developments in Primatology: Progress and Prospects |url=https://scottbarrykaufman.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Harlow-1958.pdf}}</ref> This connection to early human development, where close physical contact is essential for survival, could explain why belly-to-belly contact remains comforting and desirable in adult relationships. Of particular importance, skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between a mother and her child is essential for establishing healthy attachment bonds and for regulating the child's physiological responses, which overall support well-being and stability.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sarah Blaffer Hrdy |date=Apr 15, 2011 |title=Mothers and Others: The Evolutionary Origins of Mutual Understanding |work=Harvard University Press |url=https://scottbarrykaufman.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Harlow-1958.pdf}}</ref><ref name="auto">{{cite journal |last1=A. Gallace |last2=C. Spence |date=2010 |title=The science of interpersonal touch: An overview |journal=Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews |volume=34 |issue=2 |pages=246–259 |doi=10.1016/j.neubiorev.2008.10.004 |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0149763408001723}}</ref> For example, one study of 3,472 women and their infants following [[cesarean section|cesarean birth]] concluded that SSC infants demonstrated better cardio-respiratory stabilization and higher blood glucose levels when compared to non-SSC infants; however, the authors reportedly need larger sample sizes to confirm these physiological benefits.<ref name="auto1">{{cite journal |last1=E. R. Moore |last2=N. Bergman |last3=G. C. Anderson |last4=N. Medley |date=2016 |title=Early skin-to-skin contact for mothers and their healthy newborn infants |journal=The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews |volume=2016 |issue=11 |pages=CD003519 |doi=10.1002/14651858.CD003519.pub4 |pmid=27885658 |pmc=6464366 }}</ref> Another study examining the attachment bonds of 16 highly satisfied heterosexual married couples showed that simple touch not only reinforces healthy attachment but also attenuates the activation of neurological stress responses and negative emotions.<ref>{{cite news |last1=James A. Coan |last2=Hillary S. Schaefer |last3=Richard J. Davidson |date=2006 |title=Lending a Hand: Social Regulation of the Neural Response to Threat |work=Harvard University Press |doi=10.1111/j.1467-9280.2006.01832.x |url=https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2006.01832.x}}</ref>

[[File:Kangaroo Care Laquintinie Hospital Cameroon.jpg|thumb|A mother provides skin-to-skin contact for her newborn infant]]

Belly-to-belly contact might also play a role in sexual selection, where close physical proximity and the sharing of warmth could be seen as indicators of a strong, nurturing partnership and the ability to provide nurturance to offspring.<ref>{{cite news |last1=D. M. Buss |last2=D. P. Schmitt |date=1993 |title=Sexual Strategies Theory: An Evolutionary Perspective on Human Mating |work=Psychological Review |url=https://labs.la.utexas.edu/buss/files/2015/09/SexualStrategiesTheory.pdf}}</ref> This contact, whether in sexual or non-sexual contexts, can strengthen interindividual bonds, contributing to a sense of security and mutual support.<ref>{{cite news |last1=D. A. Puts |date=2010 |title=Beauty and the beast: Mechanisms of sexual selection in humans |work=Evolution and Human Behavior |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/240186960}}</ref>

====Psychological and Socioemotional Perspective====
For some, belly-to-belly contact can be a deeply sensory experience, evoking feelings of comfort, safety, and connection.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Tiffany Field |date=2010 |title=Touch for socioemotional and physical well-being: A review |journal=Developmental Review |volume=30 |issue=4 |pages=367–383 |doi=10.1016/j.dr.2011.01.001 |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0273229711000025}}</ref> The warmth and softness of this contact can be soothing and contribute to emotional regulation, much like how infants are calmed by close physical contact with their caregivers.<ref name="auto2"/><ref name="auto1"/><ref>{{cite news |last1=M. J. Hertenstein |last2=S. J. Weiss |date=2011 |title= The Handbook of Touch: Neuroscience, Behavioral, and Health Perspectives}}</ref> In adult relationships, this contact can reinforce a sense of closeness and emotional intimacy, extending beyond romantic contexts to include friendships and family bonds.<ref name="auto"/><ref>{{cite news |last1=A. Debrot |last2=D. Schoebi |last3=M. Perrez |last4=A. B. Horn |date=2013 |title=Touch as an interpersonal emotion regulation process in couples' daily lives: The mediating role of psychological intimacy. |work=Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/251878881}}</ref>


[[File:AVP Professional Beach Volleyball in Austin, Texas (2017-05-20) (35497089465).jpg|thumb|Non-sexual belly-to-belly contact in a sports post-play celebration]]
[[File:AVP Professional Beach Volleyball in Austin, Texas (2017-05-20) (35497089465).jpg|thumb|Non-sexual belly-to-belly contact in a sports post-play celebration]]


The evolutionary need for ventral-ventral contact may also contribute to sexual arousal during objectively non-sexual belly-to-belly contact which may happen when hugging or cuddling while wearing skin-revealing clothing (e.g., [[crop top]], [[bikini]]);<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sarah Hunter Myrray, Ph.D. |date=Aug 28, 2017 |title=The Sexual Science of Cuddling |work=Psychology Today |url=https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/myths-desire/201708/the-sexual-science-cuddling}}</ref> taking part in some forms of partnered dance (e.g., [[bachata (dance)]]);<ref>{{cite news |date=2022 |title=Latin Club Dances |work=Phoenix Latin & Ballroom |url=https://www.phoenixrisingballroom.com/latin-nightclub}}</ref> or participating in sports involving belly-to-belly contact either due to the sports' nature (e.g., [[wrestling]], [[mixed martial arts]])<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kyle Carroll |date=2014 |title=Technique of the Week: Belly-to-Belly Suplex |work=MyMMANews |url=https://mymmanews.com/technique-week-belly-belly-suplex/}}</ref> or as a strategy for obtaining rest, breaking-up an opponent's rhythm, heightening camaraderie during play, and/or eliciting post-play celebration (e.g., [[boxing]], [[beach volleyball]]).<ref>{{cite news |last1=Jacob Smith |date=Oct 10, 2022 |title=Why Do People Hug in Boxing?|work=Casino.org |url=https://www.casino.org/blog/why-do-people-hug-in-boxing/}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2021 |title=What's up with all the hugging in beach volleyball? |work=Reddit |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/olympics/comments/oyxrep/whats_up_with_all_the_hugging_in_beach_volleyball/}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Mustafa Gatollari |date=Aug 2, 2021 |title=Volleyball Players Celebrate After Every Point for Two Reasons |work=Distractify |url=https://www.distractify.com/p/why-do-volleyball-players-hug-after-every-point}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Tetsuchi Kajimoto |last2=Paresh Dave |date=Aug 6, 2021 |title=Beach Volleyball-America's Ross and Klineman beat Australia for gold |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/science/beach-volleyball-swiss-women-beat-latvia-duo-win-bronze-medal-2021-08-06/}}</ref>
These psychological undertones of ventral-ventral contact may also contribute to emotional and/or physiological arousal during objectively non-sexual belly-to-belly contact, which may happen when hugging or cuddling while wearing skin-revealing clothing (e.g., [[crop top]], [[bikini]]);<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sarah Hunter Myrray, Ph.D. |date=Aug 28, 2017 |title=The Sexual Science of Cuddling |work=Psychology Today |url=https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/myths-desire/201708/the-sexual-science-cuddling}}</ref> taking part in some forms of partnered dance (e.g., [[bachata (dance)]], [[salsa (dance)]], [[tango (dance)]]);<ref>{{cite news |date=2022 |title=Latin Club Dances |work=Phoenix Latin & Ballroom |url=https://www.phoenixrisingballroom.com/latin-nightclub}}</ref> or participating in sports involving belly-to-belly contact either due to the sports' nature (e.g., [[wrestling]], [[mixed martial arts]])<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kyle Carroll |date=2014 |title=Technique of the Week: Belly-to-Belly Suplex |work=MyMMANews |url=https://mymmanews.com/technique-week-belly-belly-suplex/}}</ref> or as a strategy for obtaining rest, breaking-up an opponent's rhythm, heightening camaraderie during play, and/or eliciting post-play celebration (e.g., [[boxing]], [[beach volleyball]]).<ref>{{cite news |last1=Jacob Smith |date=Oct 10, 2022 |title=Why Do People Hug in Boxing?|work=Casino.org |url=https://www.casino.org/blog/why-do-people-hug-in-boxing/}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2021 |title=What's up with all the hugging in beach volleyball? |work=Reddit |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/olympics/comments/oyxrep/whats_up_with_all_the_hugging_in_beach_volleyball/}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Mustafa Gatollari |date=Aug 2, 2021 |title=Volleyball Players Celebrate After Every Point for Two Reasons |work=Distractify |url=https://www.distractify.com/p/why-do-volleyball-players-hug-after-every-point}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Tetsuchi Kajimoto |last2=Paresh Dave |date=Aug 6, 2021 |title=Beach Volleyball-America's Ross and Klineman beat Australia for gold |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/science/beach-volleyball-swiss-women-beat-latvia-duo-win-bronze-medal-2021-08-06/}}</ref>

[[File:HAIMO2210722 (49 of 51) (52232586271).jpg|thumb|Band members wearing revealing clothing embracing post-concert, resulting in non-sexual belly-to-belly contact]]

====Neuroscientific Perspective====
Belly-to-belly contact can stimulate release of [[oxytocin]], the "bonding hormone," which plays a key role in forming social bonds, enhancing trust, and reducing stress.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=M. Heinrichs |last2=B. von Dawans |last3=G. Domes |date=2009 |title=Oxytocin, vasopressin, and human social behavior |journal=Psychoneuroendocrinology |volume=34 |issue=3 |pages=341–349 |doi=10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.05.005 |pmid=19505497}}</ref> Touching sensitive areas like the belly further amplifies this "bonding" effect, as sensitive touch can stimulate neuronal firing in the brain's reward center, the [[nucleus accumbens]] (NAc).<ref>{{cite journal |last1=L. J. Elias |last2=I. K. Succi |last3=M. D. Schaffler |last4=W. Foster |last5=M. A. Gradwell |last6=M. Bohic |last7=A. Fushiki |last8=A. Upadhyay |last9=L. L. Ejoh |last10=R. Schwark |last11=R. Frazer |last12=B. Bistis |last13=J. E. Burke |last14=V. Saltz |last15=J. E. Boyce |last16=A. Jhumka |last17= R. M. Costa |last18=V. E. Abraira |last19=I. Abdus-Saboor |date=2023 |title=Touch neurons underlying dopaminergic pleasurable touch and sexual receptivity |journal=Cell Press |volume=186 |issue=3 |pages=577–590 |doi=10.1016/j.cell.2022.12.034|pmc=9898224 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=K. Maruyama |last2=R. Shimoju |last3=M. Ohkubo |last4=H. Maruyama |last5=M. Kurosawa |date=2012 |title=Tactile skin stimulation increases dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens in rats |journal=Journal of Physiological Science |volume=62 |issue=3 |pages=259–266 |doi=10.1007/s12576-012-0205-z|pmc=10717409 }}</ref> As a result, belly-to-belly contact neuropsychologically augments the emotional intimacy between two individuals.<ref>{{cite book |last1=John Howard, LMFT |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6aumEAAAQBAJ |title=More Than Words: The Science of Deepening Love and Connection in Any Relationship |date=2022 |publisher=S&S/Simon Element |isbn=978-1982182328 |pages=6,55}}</ref>

<gallery mode="packed" heights="160">
File:Nucleus accumbens sagittal sections.gif|NAc (Green), Sagittal Sections
</gallery>

Moreover, as the torso contains numerous vital organs, belly-to-belly contact stimulates pathways related to [[thermoregulation]] and [[homeostasis]].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=A. Fotopoulo |last2=M. von Mohr |last3=C. Krahé |date=2022 |title=Affective regulation through touch: homeostatic and allostatic mechanisms |journal=Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences |volume=43 |pages=80–87 |doi=10.1016/j.cobeha.2021.08.008}}</ref> A study of 51 newborns found that SSC with belly-to-belly touch was significantly more effective at regulating newborn body temperature and homeostasis than using radiant heat alone.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=J. A. Färdig |date=1980 |title=A comparison of skin-to-skin contact and radiant heaters in promoting neonatal thermoregulation |journal=Journal of Nurse-Midwifery |volume=25 |issue=1 |pages=19–28 |doi=10.1016/0091-2182(80)90005-1}}</ref> Therefore, belly-to-belly contact may help calm the [[autonomic nervous system]], reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=T. Field |date=2010 |title=Touch for socioemotional and physical well-being: A review |journal=Developmental Review |volume=30 |issue=4 |pages=367–383 |doi=10.1016/j.dr.2011.01.001}}</ref>


==Cultural background==
==Cultural background==
Line 17: Line 40:
===Western culture===
===Western culture===
Some assume that alvinolagnia is a cause of the prevalent western fashion of female midriff exposure.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Victor T. Cheney |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hajBags19z4C&q=Alvinolagnia |title=The Sex Offenses and their Treatments: The Problem--The Solution--Commentary |date=2004 |publisher=AuthorHouse |isbn=978-1418429515 |page=135}}</ref>
Some assume that alvinolagnia is a cause of the prevalent western fashion of female midriff exposure.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Victor T. Cheney |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hajBags19z4C&q=Alvinolagnia |title=The Sex Offenses and their Treatments: The Problem--The Solution--Commentary |date=2004 |publisher=AuthorHouse |isbn=978-1418429515 |page=135}}</ref>
In the [[Victorian era]], a small [[waist]] was considered the main trait of a beautiful woman.<!--This is in the tenth line of the second paragraph on page 38.--><ref name="Silver">Silver, A.K. (2004). Victorian Literature and the Anorexic Body. UK: Cambridge University Press. pp. 38 & 48. {{ISBN|0-511-03051-7}}</ref> The advent of bikinis in 1946,<ref>[http://www.glamoursurf.com/articles/article/4918259/114188.htm The Two Piece Swimsuit Evolution] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117023941/http://www.glamoursurf.com/articles/article/4918259/114188.htm|date=2015-11-17}}. Gla moursurf.com.</ref> the cheerleading fashion of the 1970s<ref>{{cite book |last=Tim Delaney, Tim Madigan |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_leJMTGB3OoC&q=midriff&pg=PA148 |title=Sports: Why People Love Them! |publisher=University Press of America |year=2009 |isbn=9780761844891 |page=248}}</ref> and low-rise fashion started in the early 1990s<ref>{{cite web |last1=New York Media |first1=LLC |date=10 May 1993 |title=Navel Mauvers |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ziUAAAAAMBAJ&q=New+York+Magazine%E2%80%8E+Navel |access-date=11 August 2011 |work=New York |page=26}}</ref> have contributed to widespread fascination of the belly region. Specific breakthroughs of the belly region being featured in American media include [[Cher]] in the 1970s "The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour," as well as the character Ariel in [[Disney]]'s ''[[The Little Mermaid (1989 film)]]''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Leon F Seltzer, PhD |date=10 May 2017 |title=What's So Sexy About Belly Buttons? Might navels be the most tantalizing--but least publicized--erogenous zone? |work=Psychology Today |url=https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201705/what-s-so-sexy-about-belly-buttons}}</ref> Midriff exposure also became common in the culture of [[20th-century music]] with many famous female pop stars appearing on and offstage and in music videos with their midriff exposed.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Christina Anderson |date=18 July 2012 |title=Rihanna, Madonna And 48 More Celebrities Who Made The Midriff So Fabulous (Photos) |work=The Huffington Post |url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/18/rihanna-madonna-belly-baring-tops_n_1679503.html?ir=India&adsSiteOverride=in |url-status=live |access-date=25 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924162007/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/18/rihanna-madonna-belly-baring-tops_n_1679503.html?ir=India&adsSiteOverride=in |archive-date=24 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=DANELLE SANDOVAL |date=May 19, 2015 |title=The 9 Best Christina Aguilera Midriff Moments From The '90s To 2000s, From Her "What A Girl Wants" Days To The "Dirrty" Era |work=BUSTLE |url=http://www.bustle.com/articles/83734-the-9-best-christina-aguilera-midriff-moments-from-the-90s-to-2000s-from-her-what-a |url-status=live |access-date=1 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150615020725/http://www.bustle.com/articles/83734-the-9-best-christina-aguilera-midriff-moments-from-the-90s-to-2000s-from-her-what-a |archive-date=15 June 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=2014-04-07 |title=Boobs, Belly & Thigh! Dissect the Sexy Anatomy Of the ACM Awards Right Here! |url=http://perezhilton.com/cocoperez/2014-04-07-acm-awards-2014-boobs-cleavage-skin-photos/?from=post |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624212927/http://perezhilton.com/cocoperez/2014-04-07-acm-awards-2014-boobs-cleavage-skin-photos/?from=post |archive-date=24 June 2016 |access-date=29 May 2016 |website=perezhilton.com}}</ref>
In the [[Victorian era]], a small [[waist]] was considered the main trait of a beautiful woman.<!--This is in the tenth line of the second paragraph on page 38.--><ref name="Silver">Silver, A.K. (2004). Victorian Literature and the Anorexic Body. UK: Cambridge University Press. pp. 38 & 48. {{ISBN|0-511-03051-7}}</ref> The advent of bikinis in 1946,<ref>[http://www.glamoursurf.com/articles/article/4918259/114188.htm The Two Piece Swimsuit Evolution] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117023941/http://www.glamoursurf.com/articles/article/4918259/114188.htm|date=2015-11-17}}. Gla moursurf.com.</ref> the cheerleading fashion of the 1970s<ref>{{cite book |last=Tim Delaney, Tim Madigan |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_leJMTGB3OoC&q=midriff&pg=PA148 |title=Sports: Why People Love Them! |publisher=University Press of America |year=2009 |isbn=9780761844891 |page=248}}</ref> and low-rise fashion started in the early 1990s<ref>{{cite web |last1=New York Media |first1=LLC |date=10 May 1993 |title=Navel Mauvers |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ziUAAAAAMBAJ&q=New+York+Magazine%E2%80%8E+Navel |access-date=11 August 2011 |work=New York |page=26}}</ref> have contributed to widespread fascination of the belly region. Specific breakthroughs of the belly region being featured in American media include [[Cher]] in the 1970s "The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour", as well as the character Ariel in [[Disney]]'s ''[[The Little Mermaid (1989 film)]]''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Leon F Seltzer, PhD |date=10 May 2017 |title=What's So Sexy About Belly Buttons? Might navels be the most tantalizing--but least publicized--erogenous zone? |work=Psychology Today |url=https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201705/what-s-so-sexy-about-belly-buttons}}</ref> Midriff exposure also became common in the culture of [[20th-century music]] with many famous female pop stars appearing on and offstage and in music videos with their midriff exposed.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Christina Anderson |date=18 July 2012 |title=Rihanna, Madonna And 48 More Celebrities Who Made The Midriff So Fabulous (Photos) |work=The Huffington Post |url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/18/rihanna-madonna-belly-baring-tops_n_1679503.html?ir=India&adsSiteOverride=in |url-status=live |access-date=25 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924162007/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/18/rihanna-madonna-belly-baring-tops_n_1679503.html?ir=India&adsSiteOverride=in |archive-date=24 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=DANELLE SANDOVAL |date=May 19, 2015 |title=The 9 Best Christina Aguilera Midriff Moments From The '90s To 2000s, From Her "What A Girl Wants" Days To The "Dirrty" Era |work=BUSTLE |url=http://www.bustle.com/articles/83734-the-9-best-christina-aguilera-midriff-moments-from-the-90s-to-2000s-from-her-what-a |url-status=live |access-date=1 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150615020725/http://www.bustle.com/articles/83734-the-9-best-christina-aguilera-midriff-moments-from-the-90s-to-2000s-from-her-what-a |archive-date=15 June 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=2014-04-07 |title=Boobs, Belly & Thigh! Dissect the Sexy Anatomy Of the ACM Awards Right Here! |url=http://perezhilton.com/cocoperez/2014-04-07-acm-awards-2014-boobs-cleavage-skin-photos/?from=post |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624212927/http://perezhilton.com/cocoperez/2014-04-07-acm-awards-2014-boobs-cleavage-skin-photos/?from=post |archive-date=24 June 2016 |access-date=29 May 2016 |website=perezhilton.com}}</ref>
Some get attracted to women wearing a [[crop top]] or [[bikini]].<ref name="g">{{cite web |title=Alvinolagnia |url=http://www.gaypopculture.com/bdsmreference/archives/fetish_dictionary/alvinolagnia.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714150109/http://www.gaypopculture.com/bdsmreference/archives/fetish_dictionary/alvinolagnia.php |archive-date=14 July 2014 |access-date=8 July 2014 |website=gaypopculture.com}}</ref>
Some get attracted to women wearing a [[crop top]] or [[bikini]].<ref name="g">{{cite web |title=Alvinolagnia |url=http://www.gaypopculture.com/bdsmreference/archives/fetish_dictionary/alvinolagnia.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714150109/http://www.gaypopculture.com/bdsmreference/archives/fetish_dictionary/alvinolagnia.php |archive-date=14 July 2014 |access-date=8 July 2014 |website=gaypopculture.com}}</ref>


Despite the prevalence of alvinolagnia, midriff exposure, and sexual belly-to-belly contact throughout Western pop culture, it is rare for belly-to-belly contact to be featured in Western media under a non-sexual tone. Nonetheless, non-sexual belly-to-belly contact in Western media generally represents either the establishment of a non-sexual friendship or the strengthening of an existing bond between two people.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Larry Gross |date=26 Dec 2001 |title=Up from Invisibility: Lesbians, Gay Men, and the Media in America |work=Google Books |isbn=9780231529327 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aF3x8sUB1bEC&dq=will+and+grace+let%27s+touch+stomachs&pg=PA179}}</ref> For example, the North American sitcom ''[[Will & Grace]]'' features two characters, Jack and Karen, who initiate and periodically bolster their long-lasting friendship via non-sexual belly-to-belly touch,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ali Velez |date=17 Jan 2017 |title=17 Times Jack & Karen from "Will & Grace" Were Friendship Goals AF |work=Buzzfeed |url=https://www.buzzfeed.com/alivelez/17-times-jack-and-karen-were-the-real-stars-of-will-grace}}</ref> a quirk so infamous that it appeared on the show's holiday special.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Emily Longeretta |date=20 Nov 2017 |title='Will & Grace' Cast Throw It Back for Holiday Special |work=Weekly US News |url=https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/will-grace-christmas-special-jack-karen-touch-stomachs-first-pics/}}</ref> More recently, non-sexual belly-to-belly touch became a key characteristic of [[Bayley and Sasha Banks]]' The Boss n' Hug Connection, a former women's professional wrestling tag team known for engaging in a post-match celebration involving belly-to-belly hugs.<ref>{{cite news |date=Jan 19, 2022 |title=Sasha Banks and Bayley Hug Moments |work=YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2xI6bAjqYs}}</ref>
Despite the prevalence of alvinolagnia, midriff exposure, and sexual belly-to-belly contact throughout Western pop culture, it is rare for belly-to-belly contact to be featured in Western media under a non-sexual tone. Nonetheless, non-sexual belly-to-belly contact in Western media generally represents either the establishment of a non-sexual friendship or the strengthening of an existing bond between two people.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Larry Gross |date=26 Dec 2001 |title=Up from Invisibility: Lesbians, Gay Men, and the Media in America |work=Google Books |isbn=9780231529327 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aF3x8sUB1bEC&dq=will+and+grace+let%27s+touch+stomachs&pg=PA179}}</ref> For example, the North American sitcom ''[[Will & Grace]]'' features two characters, Jack and Karen, who initiate and periodically bolster their long-lasting friendship via non-sexual belly-to-belly touch,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ali Velez |date=17 Jan 2017 |title=17 Times Jack & Karen from "Will & Grace" Were Friendship Goals AF |work=Buzzfeed |url=https://www.buzzfeed.com/alivelez/17-times-jack-and-karen-were-the-real-stars-of-will-grace}}</ref> a quirk so infamous that it appeared on the show's holiday special.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Emily Longeretta |date=20 Nov 2017 |title='Will & Grace' Cast Throw It Back for Holiday Special |work=Weekly US News |url=https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/will-grace-christmas-special-jack-karen-touch-stomachs-first-pics/}}</ref> More recently, non-sexual belly-to-belly touch became a key characteristic of [[Bayley and Sasha Banks]]' The Boss n' Hug Connection, a former women's professional wrestling tag team known for engaging in a post-match celebration involving belly-to-belly hugs.<ref>{{cite news |date=Jan 19, 2022 |title=Sasha Banks and Bayley Hug Moments |work=YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2xI6bAjqYs}}</ref>

===In animated media===
Belly-to-belly contact, when discussed in context of cartoons and animation, refers to the close physical interactions between characters, which can convey intimacy, empathy, or conflict. This type of contact plays a significant role in visual storytelling, impacting viewers' emotional responses and social perceptions.{{citation needed|date=November 2024}}

====Psychological impact====
The psychology behind belly-to-belly contact (see above) suggests it can enhance the emotional connection between the character and the viewer. In animation, belly-to-belly contact may symbolize closeness or confrontation, depending on the inherent context. For example, characters in a supportive embrace may evoke feelings of warmth and safety in the viewer, whereas a more confrontational stance may communicate tension or conflict.<ref name="auto4">{{cite news |first=Nalena |last=Kumar |title=Understanding the psychology of cartoons |website=Nalena |url=https://nalena.com/psychology-of-cartoons/}}</ref>

====Role in character development====
Belly-to-belly contact may be crucial in character design and development, especially when characters require complex relational and emotional dynamics. As a result, animators may use belly-to-belly contact to express complex narratives, allowing the viewer to infer a character's feelings and motivations via their physical closeness to or distance from other characters.<ref name="auto4"/><ref name="auto3">{{cite web |first=David |last=Fessell |date=12 July 2021 |title=How Cartoons Boost Mood and Well-Being |website=Psychology Today |url=https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/unlocking-your-potential/202107/how-cartoons-boost-mood-and-well-being}}</ref>

====Educational value====
Belly-to-belly contact may also serve educational purposes. In children's cartoons, belly-to-belly contact may teach valuable life lessons regarding relationships, interpersonal boundaries, reading one's bodily sensations, and emotional intelligence. For instance, seeing characters resolve their conflict via physical touch can assist younger viewers in understanding empathy and social skills.<ref name="auto4"/>

====Humor and comedy====
Cartoons may use humorous physical interactions to invoke audience response. For example, characters may inadvertently collide, often resulting in exaggerated reactions, playful chaos, and/or belly-to-belly contact. Such slapstick humor engages viewers visually and enhances character dynamics by showcasing the complexity of characters' interpersonal relationships and dynamic socioemotional states.<ref name="auto4"/><ref name="auto3"/> More specifically, cartoons may use belly-to-belly contact to exaggerate physical comedy. For example, characters aiming for a gentle embrace may accidentally collide with unexpected force, leading to humorous outcomes. This visual form of humor also relies on slapstick humor that resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a powerful tool in animated narratives.<ref name="auto4"/><ref name="auto3"/>


===Middle Eastern culture===
===Middle Eastern culture===
[[File:Belly dancer.jpg|thumb|Belly dancing movements are considered to be seductive]]The eastern art of [[belly dance|belly dancing]] places the female midriff on center stage.<ref>{{cite web |last1=drmarkgriffiths |date=2013-10-02 |title=Dance encounter: A beginner's guide to choreophila |url=https://drmarkgriffiths.wordpress.com/2013/10/02/dance-encounter-a-beginners-guide-to-choreophila/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150523003122/https://drmarkgriffiths.wordpress.com/2013/10/02/dance-encounter-a-beginners-guide-to-choreophila/ |archive-date=23 May 2015 |access-date=1 August 2015 |website=drmarkgriffiths.wordpress.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Charlene Chua |date=Mar 28, 2012 |title=Belly sexy dancing |newspaper=Asia One |url=http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest%2BNews/Showbiz/Story/A1Story20120326-335795.html |url-status=dead |access-date=8 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331023645/http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest+News/Showbiz/Story/A1Story20120326-335795.html |archive-date=31 March 2012}}</ref> The dance movements of the torso are considered to be seductive.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Karin van Nieuwkerk |date=1998 |title="An hour for God and an hour for the heart": Islam, gender and female entertainment in Egypt |url=https://www.umbc.edu/MA/index/number3/nieuwkerk/karin_0.htm |url-status=live |journal=Music & Anthropology |at=§5 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151130022713/http://umbc.edu/MA/index/number3/nieuwkerk/karin_5.htm |archive-date=30 November 2015 |access-date=25 July 2015}}</ref>
[[File:Belly dancer.jpg|thumb|Belly dancing movements are considered to be seductive.]]The eastern art of [[belly dance|belly dancing]] places the female midriff on center stage.<ref>{{cite web |last1=drmarkgriffiths |date=2013-10-02 |title=Dance encounter: A beginner's guide to choreophila |url=https://drmarkgriffiths.wordpress.com/2013/10/02/dance-encounter-a-beginners-guide-to-choreophila/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150523003122/https://drmarkgriffiths.wordpress.com/2013/10/02/dance-encounter-a-beginners-guide-to-choreophila/ |archive-date=23 May 2015 |access-date=1 August 2015 |website=drmarkgriffiths.wordpress.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Charlene Chua |date=Mar 28, 2012 |title=Belly sexy dancing |newspaper=Asia One |url=http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest%2BNews/Showbiz/Story/A1Story20120326-335795.html |url-status=dead |access-date=8 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331023645/http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest+News/Showbiz/Story/A1Story20120326-335795.html |archive-date=31 March 2012}}</ref> The dance movements of the torso are considered to be seductive.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Karin van Nieuwkerk |date=1998 |title="An hour for God and an hour for the heart": Islam, gender and female entertainment in Egypt |url=https://www.umbc.edu/MA/index/number3/nieuwkerk/karin_0.htm |url-status=live |journal=Music & Anthropology |at=§5 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151130022713/http://umbc.edu/MA/index/number3/nieuwkerk/karin_5.htm |archive-date=30 November 2015 |access-date=25 July 2015}}</ref>


===Indian culture===
===Indian culture===
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The bare female midriff is considered attractive and erotic in India.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Alka Pande |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YqKbAwAAQBAJ&q=female+midriff+attractive |title=Shringara the many faces of Indian beauty | year=2011 |publisher=Rupa Publications |isbn=978-8129125316}}</ref> Baring the midriff has always been a fashion in Indian women attire.<ref name="Mukulika">Miller, Daniel & Banerjee, Mukulika; (2004) "The Sari", Lustre press / Roli books;</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=Apr 6, 1969 |title=Grange Official says Optimism Prevails about India's Future |newspaper=Reading Eagle |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=3cghAAAAIBAJ&pg=5155,2461517&dq=midriff+saree&hl=en |url-status=live |access-date=20 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924142021/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=3cghAAAAIBAJ&sjid=W6AFAAAAIBAJ&pg=5155,2461517&dq=midriff+saree&hl=en |archive-date=24 September 2015}}</ref> Indian women have traditionally worn [[sari]]s<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Dhamija |first1=Jasleen |title=Handwoven fabrics of India |last2=Jain |first2=Jyotindra |date=1989 |publisher=Mapin |page=149}}</ref> that bares the midriff, especially [[South India]]n women.<ref name="Roshan">Alkazi, Roshan (1983) "Ancient Indian costume", Art Heritage;</ref><ref name="Ghurye">Ghurye (1951) "Indian costume", Popular book depot (Bombay)</ref> The exposure of midriff in a sari is considered to be erotic.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Khushwant Singh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=biYlQLVNhOsC&q=navel |title=Sex, Scotch & Scholarship |date=2012 |publisher=HarperCollins Publishers |isbn=978-9350292426}}</ref> The midriff is revealed in other traditional female attires like [[Gagra choli|Ghagra choli]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Social Science a Textbook in History for Class IX as per New Syllabus - FK Publications |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=W7c8TBQhoAIC&q=lehenga+saree&pg=PA148 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160513093745/https://books.google.com/books?id=W7c8TBQhoAIC&pg=PA148&dq=lehenga+saree&hl=en&ei=J1VjTvuNEZTUgAfvvuGsCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CGEQ6AEwCA |archive-date=2016-05-13 |access-date=2016-09-19}}</ref> [[Belly chain]]s known as kamarband in India when worn with [[Low-rise (fashion)|low-rise]] saris and [[lehenga]]s are considered sensuous.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Priyanka Dasgupta |date=Sep 13, 2011 |title=Vidya Balan inspires Rituparna Sengupta? |work=The Times of India |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Vidya-Balan-inspires-Rituparna-Sengupta/articleshow/9964782.cms |access-date=29 May 2016}}</ref> Most Indian women wear belly chains during weddings and other ceremonies as a show of culture and tradition. Nowadays, women have been pairing these chains with western outfits, mostly to draw attention to their figures.<ref name="ind" />
The bare female midriff is considered attractive and erotic in India.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Alka Pande |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YqKbAwAAQBAJ&q=female+midriff+attractive |title=Shringara the many faces of Indian beauty | year=2011 |publisher=Rupa Publications |isbn=978-8129125316}}</ref> Baring the midriff has always been a fashion in Indian women attire.<ref name="Mukulika">Miller, Daniel & Banerjee, Mukulika; (2004) "The Sari", Lustre press / Roli books;</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=Apr 6, 1969 |title=Grange Official says Optimism Prevails about India's Future |newspaper=Reading Eagle |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=3cghAAAAIBAJ&pg=5155,2461517&dq=midriff+saree&hl=en |url-status=live |access-date=20 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924142021/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=3cghAAAAIBAJ&sjid=W6AFAAAAIBAJ&pg=5155,2461517&dq=midriff+saree&hl=en |archive-date=24 September 2015}}</ref> Indian women have traditionally worn [[sari]]s<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Dhamija |first1=Jasleen |title=Handwoven fabrics of India |last2=Jain |first2=Jyotindra |date=1989 |publisher=Mapin |page=149}}</ref> that bares the midriff, especially [[South India]]n women.<ref name="Roshan">Alkazi, Roshan (1983) "Ancient Indian costume", Art Heritage;</ref><ref name="Ghurye">Ghurye (1951) "Indian costume", Popular book depot (Bombay)</ref> The exposure of midriff in a sari is considered to be erotic.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Khushwant Singh |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=biYlQLVNhOsC&q=navel |title=Sex, Scotch & Scholarship |date=2012 |publisher=HarperCollins Publishers |isbn=978-9350292426}}</ref> The midriff is revealed in other traditional female attires like [[Gagra choli|Ghagra choli]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Social Science a Textbook in History for Class IX as per New Syllabus - FK Publications |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=W7c8TBQhoAIC&q=lehenga+saree&pg=PA148 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160513093745/https://books.google.com/books?id=W7c8TBQhoAIC&pg=PA148&dq=lehenga+saree&hl=en&ei=J1VjTvuNEZTUgAfvvuGsCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CGEQ6AEwCA |archive-date=2016-05-13 |access-date=2016-09-19}}</ref> [[Belly chain]]s known as kamarband in India when worn with [[Low-rise (fashion)|low-rise]] saris and [[lehenga]]s are considered sensuous.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Priyanka Dasgupta |date=Sep 13, 2011 |title=Vidya Balan inspires Rituparna Sengupta? |work=The Times of India |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Vidya-Balan-inspires-Rituparna-Sengupta/articleshow/9964782.cms |access-date=29 May 2016}}</ref> Most Indian women wear belly chains during weddings and other ceremonies as a show of culture and tradition. Nowadays, women have been pairing these chains with western outfits, mostly to draw attention to their figures.<ref name="ind" />


Men are intrigued by the demure floor-length attire and tantalising display of a bare midriff in the back.<ref>{{cite news |last=Novia McDonald-Whyte |date=August 12, 2002 |title=Unfolding the Indian Sari |newspaper=Jamaica Observer |url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/allwoman/30276_Unfolding-the-Indian-Sari--- |url-status=dead |access-date=20 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140114064249/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/allwoman/30276_Unfolding-the-Indian-Sari--- |archive-date=2014-01-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sowmya Rajendran |title=Sai Pallavi's debut in Telugu and Tamil: Here's some 'real beauty' coming our way |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/sai-pallavis-debut-telugu-and-tamil-heres-some-real-beauty-coming-our-way-63757 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215155825/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/sai-pallavis-debut-telugu-and-tamil-heres-some-real-beauty-coming-our-way-63757 |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=TheNewsMinute.com|date=16 June 2017 }}</ref> Indian actress [[Ileana D'Cruz]] had commented that there were shots where a big porcelain seashell was thrown on her belly and flowers decorated around her waist during the shoot of her debut film and stated that the belly and [[navel]] is supposed to be a mark of a woman's beauty in South Indian films and they believe that the waist line is the most attractive part.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sowmya Rajendran |title=Shooting the messenger: Why Ileana and Amy slamming Tollywood's navel obsession isn't 'hypocrisy' |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/shooting-messenger-why-ileana-and-amy-slamming-tollywood-s-navel-obsession-isnt-hypocrisy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215215720/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/shooting-messenger-why-ileana-and-amy-slamming-tollywood-s-navel-obsession-isnt-hypocrisy |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=www.thenewsminute.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ileana D'Cruz: It would be prudish to say 'I don't want to be a prop in a film' |url=https://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/ileana-dcruz-it-would-be-prudish-to-say-i-dont-want-to-be-a-prop-in-a-film/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190216035155/https://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/ileana-dcruz-it-would-be-prudish-to-say-i-dont-want-to-be-a-prop-in-a-film/ |archive-date=16 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=BollywoodLife.com|date=27 August 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ileana D'Cruz Seconds Taapsee Pannu's Comment On South's Midriff {{sic|Obsse|ssion|nolink=y}} With Her Own Experience |url=https://www.india.com/showbiz/ileana-dcruz-seconds-taapsee-pannus-comment-on-souths-midriff-obssession-with-her-own-experience-2429029/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215215937/https://www.india.com/showbiz/ileana-dcruz-seconds-taapsee-pannus-comment-on-souths-midriff-obssession-with-her-own-experience-2429029/ |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=India.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Objectification Of Women Is Not Just An Issue In South But In Bollywood Too, Says Ileana D'cruz |url=https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/objectification-of-women-is-not-just-an-issue-in-south-but-in-bollywood-too-says-ileana-d-cruz-328530.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215215934/https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/objectification-of-women-is-not-just-an-issue-in-south-but-in-bollywood-too-says-ileana-d-cruz-328530.html |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=Indiatimes.com|date=26 August 2017 }}</ref> Indian Singer [[Chinmayi]] once tweeted against a fan's request for sarees during performances, saying, ''"Groups of men...take photographs of my waist + side of my chest, circle it and upload it on soft porn websites.", "I get messages on how they're masturbating to it."''<ref>{{cite web |last1=Anusha Iyengar |title=Chinmayi Sripaada gives it back to a fan who asks her to wear a saree while performing - check her tweet here |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/south-gossip/article/chinmayi-sripaada-gives-it-back-to-a-fan-who-asks-her-to-wear-a-saree-while-performing-check-her-tweet-here-south-news/355620 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128202659/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/south-gossip/article/chinmayi-sripaada-gives-it-back-to-a-fan-who-asks-her-to-wear-a-saree-while-performing-check-her-tweet-here-south-news/355620 |archive-date=28 January 2019 |access-date=28 January 2019 |website=TimesNow.com}}</ref>
Men are intrigued by the demure floor-length attire and tantalising display of a bare midriff in the back.<ref>{{cite news |last=Novia McDonald-Whyte |date=August 12, 2002 |title=Unfolding the Indian Sari |newspaper=Jamaica Observer |url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/allwoman/30276_Unfolding-the-Indian-Sari--- |url-status=dead |access-date=20 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140114064249/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/allwoman/30276_Unfolding-the-Indian-Sari--- |archive-date=2014-01-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sowmya Rajendran |title=Sai Pallavi's debut in Telugu and Tamil: Here's some 'real beauty' coming our way |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/sai-pallavis-debut-telugu-and-tamil-heres-some-real-beauty-coming-our-way-63757 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215155825/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/sai-pallavis-debut-telugu-and-tamil-heres-some-real-beauty-coming-our-way-63757 |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=TheNewsMinute.com|date=16 June 2017 }}</ref> Indian actress [[Ileana D'Cruz]] had commented that there were shots where a big porcelain seashell was thrown on her belly and flowers decorated around her waist during the shoot of her debut film and stated that the belly and [[navel]] is supposed to be a mark of a woman's beauty in South Indian films and they believe that the waist line is the most attractive part.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sowmya Rajendran |title=Shooting the messenger: Why Ileana and Amy slamming Tollywood's navel obsession isn't 'hypocrisy' |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/shooting-messenger-why-ileana-and-amy-slamming-tollywood-s-navel-obsession-isnt-hypocrisy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215215720/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/shooting-messenger-why-ileana-and-amy-slamming-tollywood-s-navel-obsession-isnt-hypocrisy |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=www.thenewsminute.com|date=28 July 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ileana D'Cruz: It would be prudish to say 'I don't want to be a prop in a film' |url=https://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/ileana-dcruz-it-would-be-prudish-to-say-i-dont-want-to-be-a-prop-in-a-film/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190216035155/https://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/ileana-dcruz-it-would-be-prudish-to-say-i-dont-want-to-be-a-prop-in-a-film/ |archive-date=16 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=BollywoodLife.com|date=27 August 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ileana D'Cruz Seconds Taapsee Pannu's Comment On South's Midriff {{sic|Obsse|ssion|nolink=y}} With Her Own Experience |url=https://www.india.com/showbiz/ileana-dcruz-seconds-taapsee-pannus-comment-on-souths-midriff-obssession-with-her-own-experience-2429029/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215215937/https://www.india.com/showbiz/ileana-dcruz-seconds-taapsee-pannus-comment-on-souths-midriff-obssession-with-her-own-experience-2429029/ |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=India.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Objectification Of Women Is Not Just An Issue In South But In Bollywood Too, Says Ileana D'cruz |url=https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/objectification-of-women-is-not-just-an-issue-in-south-but-in-bollywood-too-says-ileana-d-cruz-328530.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215215934/https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/objectification-of-women-is-not-just-an-issue-in-south-but-in-bollywood-too-says-ileana-d-cruz-328530.html |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |website=Indiatimes.com|date=26 August 2017 }}</ref> Indian singer [[Chinmayi]] once tweeted against a fan's request for saris during performances, saying, "Groups of men [...] take photographs of my waist + side of my chest, circle it and upload it on soft porn websites", adding that she "get[s] messages on how they're masturbating to it".<ref>{{cite web |first1=Anusha |last1=Iyengar |title=Chinmayi Sripaada gives it back to a fan who asks her to wear a saree while performing - check her tweet here |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/south-gossip/article/chinmayi-sripaada-gives-it-back-to-a-fan-who-asks-her-to-wear-a-saree-while-performing-check-her-tweet-here-south-news/355620 |date=Jan 28, 2019 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128202659/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/south-gossip/article/chinmayi-sripaada-gives-it-back-to-a-fan-who-asks-her-to-wear-a-saree-while-performing-check-her-tweet-here-south-news/355620 |archive-date=28 January 2019 |access-date=28 January 2019 |website=Times Now }}</ref>


Some Indian men are aroused by pinching a woman on her midriff bared by the sari.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Rachel Vara |title=What's With Indian Men And The Navel Fetish? |url=https://onmogul.com/stories/what-s-with-indian-men-and-the-navel-fetish |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616184439/https://onmogul.com/stories/what-s-with-indian-men-and-the-navel-fetish |archive-date=16 June 2016 |access-date=5 June 2016 |website=onmogul.com}}</ref> This scenario was depicted in an advertising campaign for a leading constructions company group in India.<ref>{{cite web |title=KGS Corporate |url=http://www.kgscorporate.com/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160508064318/http://www.kgscorporate.com/ |archive-date=8 May 2016 |access-date=5 June 2016 |website=kgscorporate.com}}</ref> With the tagline "Everything you love, is in arm's reach", it featured a man at office extending his arm out to pinch his wife's midriff at home, with her expressing joy by smiling and biting her lower lip.<ref>{{cite web |title=KGS Sunnyside Advertising Campaign |url=http://identitidesign.com/portfolio/kgs-sunnyside-advertising-campaign/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160618183935/http://identitidesign.com/portfolio/kgs-sunnyside-advertising-campaign/ |archive-date=18 June 2016 |access-date=5 June 2016 |website=identitidesign.com}}</ref> It was featured as a full-page advertisement in Dec 6, 2013 Chennai issue of the ''[[Times of India]]''.<ref>{{cite web |title=KGS Ad |url=http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/getimage.dll?path=TOICH/2013/12/06/3/Img/Pg003_60.png |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011091923/http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/getimage.dll?path=TOICH%2F2013%2F12%2F06%2F3%2FImg%2FPg003_60.png |archive-date=2016-10-11 |access-date=2020-01-03 |website=epaper.timesofindia.com |publisher=Times of India}}</ref>
Some Indian men are aroused by pinching a woman on her midriff bared by the sari.<ref>{{cite web |first1=Rachel |last1=Vara |title=What's With Indian Men And The Navel Fetish? |url=https://onmogul.com/stories/what-s-with-indian-men-and-the-navel-fetish |url-access=registration |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616184439/https://onmogul.com/stories/what-s-with-indian-men-and-the-navel-fetish |archive-date=16 June 2016 |access-date=5 June 2016 |website=Mogul}}</ref>


===Accessories and tattoos===
===Accessories and tattoos===
Some people wear accessories like belly chains, [[navel piercing]]s, [[tattoo]]s etc., to enhance the appearance of the belly.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Devan |first1=Amy |title=Sari Gone West: 4 Innovative Ways to Style a Classic|url=http://www.india.com/lifestyle/sari-gone-west-4-innovative-ways-to-style-a-classic-660371/|website=india.com|access-date=29 May 2016|date=2015-10-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160928004649/http://www.india.com/lifestyle/sari-gone-west-4-innovative-ways-to-style-a-classic-660371/|archive-date=28 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> It can be a delicate thin or heavy thick chain.<ref name="ind">{{cite news|title=Rocked the body chain yet?|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/fashion/trends/Rocked-the-body-chain-yet/articleshow/47513898.cms|access-date=29 May 2016|work=The Times of India|date=Jun 19, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160902071732/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Life-Style/Fashion/Trends/Rocked-the-body-chain-yet/articleshow/47513898.cms|archive-date=2 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
[[File:Gemma (8151063478).jpg|thumb|Gemma a model wearing a [[belly button piercing]]]]
Some people wear accessories like belly chains, [[navel piercing]]s, [[tattoo]]s etc., to enhance the appearance of the belly.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Amy Devan|title=Sari Gone West: 4 Innovative Ways to Style a Classic|url=http://www.india.com/lifestyle/sari-gone-west-4-innovative-ways-to-style-a-classic-660371/|website=india.com|access-date=29 May 2016|date=2015-10-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160928004649/http://www.india.com/lifestyle/sari-gone-west-4-innovative-ways-to-style-a-classic-660371/|archive-date=28 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> It can be a delicate thin or heavy thick chain.<ref name="ind">{{cite news|title=Rocked the body chain yet?|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/fashion/trends/Rocked-the-body-chain-yet/articleshow/47513898.cms|access-date=29 May 2016|work=The Times of India|date=Jun 19, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160902071732/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Life-Style/Fashion/Trends/Rocked-the-body-chain-yet/articleshow/47513898.cms|archive-date=2 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

Managing editor of digital of Canadian magazine ''[[Flare (magazine)|Flare]]'' Rebecca Perrin stated in an article, "a woman's waist and hips are two of the most physically attractive body parts there are – emphasizing them shouldn't immediately be considered a faux pas and should instead be encouraged." Celebrities like [[Beyoncé]],<ref>{{cite news|last1=Madeline Boardman|title=Beyonce's 'Life Is But A Dream': Singer's Belly Chain Is The Unsung Hero Of New Documentary|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/beyonce-life-is-but-a-dream-belly-chain_n_2670903.html?section=india|access-date=29 May 2016|work=The Huffington Post|date=Feb 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160811102232/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/beyonce-life-is-but-a-dream-belly-chain_n_2670903.html?section=india|archive-date=11 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Kat Stoeffel|title=GQ Put Beyoncé in a Belly Chain|url=http://nymag.com/thecut/2013/01/gq-put-beyonc-in-a-belly-chain.html|access-date=29 May 2016|work=nymag.com|date=January 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160804231655/http://nymag.com/thecut/2013/01/gq-put-beyonc-in-a-belly-chain.html|archive-date=4 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Rihanna]],<ref name="ch">{{cite news|title=About Those Blingy Body Chains ...|url=http://stylenews.people.com/style/2012/07/25/rihanna-miley-cyrus-body-chains/|access-date=29 May 2016|work=People|date=September 25, 2012}}{{Dead link|date=October 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> [[Miley Cyrus]]<ref name="ch" /> etc. are known for flaunting their belly chains.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Rebecca Perrin|title=Great or Gauche: Belly chains|url=http://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/great-or-gauche-belly-chains|website=o.canada.com|access-date=29 May 2016|date=2013-02-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821070938/http://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/great-or-gauche-belly-chains|archive-date=21 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>


Navel piercing<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hRHUOxramGEC&q=navel |title=Designing Clothes: Culture and Organization of the Fashion Industry |author=Veronica Manlow |publisher=Transaction Publishers |year=2009 |page=53 |isbn=9781412810555 |access-date=9 December 2015 |quote=Recently we've seen an emphasis in women's clothing on the hips and abdomen—low rise pants, halter tops, and even rings and jewels for the navel.}}<!-- assumes that navel rings require piercing --></ref> and navel tattoos<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=if6_kBbJlCcC&q=navel&pg=PA327 |title=Rhetorics of Display |author=Lawrence J. Prelli |publisher=University of South Carolina Press |year=2006 |isbn=9781570036194 |page=327}}</ref> have become more common among young women. The trend of piercing or tattooing the navel became popular in the 1990s.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=q6FI2czFz6MC&q=belly+button+fetish&pg=PA224 |title=The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Clothing Through World History: 1801 to the present |author=Jill Condra |publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group |year=2008 |isbn=9780313336652 |page=224}}</ref> It is popular among middle-aged women.<ref>{{cite news|author=Cindy Sigler Dagnan|title=Guest column: What happened to modesty?|url=http://www.joplinglobe.com/editorial/x212148869/Guest-column-What-happened-to-modesty|access-date=16 March 2012|newspaper=The Joplin Globe|date=16 August 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116053614/http://www.joplinglobe.com/editorial/x212148869/Guest-column-What-happened-to-modesty|archive-date=16 January 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Neha Kaura|title=Piercings make a fashion statement|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-20/trends/31779032_1_piercings-navel-ring-trend|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708061845/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-20/trends/31779032_1_piercings-navel-ring-trend|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 July 2012|access-date=25 May 2012|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|date=20 May 2012}}</ref> Some belly chains attach to a navel piercing; they are called "pierced belly chains".<ref>{{cite web|title=Belly Chains are Very Popular Among Girls|url=http://daaira.com/fashion/belly-chains-are-very-popular-among-girls/|website=daiira.com|access-date=29 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805153026/http://daaira.com/fashion/belly-chains-are-very-popular-among-girls/|archive-date=5 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
Navel piercing<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hRHUOxramGEC&q=navel |title=Designing Clothes: Culture and Organization of the Fashion Industry |author=Veronica Manlow |publisher=Transaction Publishers |year=2009 |page=53 |isbn=9781412810555 |access-date=9 December 2015 |quote=Recently we've seen an emphasis in women's clothing on the hips and abdomen—low rise pants, halter tops, and even rings and jewels for the navel.}}<!-- assumes that navel rings require piercing --></ref> and navel tattoos<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=if6_kBbJlCcC&q=navel&pg=PA327 |title=Rhetorics of Display |author=Lawrence J. Prelli |publisher=University of South Carolina Press |year=2006 |isbn=9781570036194 |page=327}}</ref> have become more common among young women. The trend of piercing or tattooing the navel became popular in the 1990s.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=q6FI2czFz6MC&q=belly+button+fetish&pg=PA224 |title=The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Clothing Through World History: 1801 to the present |author=Jill Condra |publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group |year=2008 |isbn=9780313336652 |page=224}}</ref> It is popular among middle-aged women.<ref>{{cite news|author=Cindy Sigler Dagnan|title=Guest column: What happened to modesty?|url=http://www.joplinglobe.com/editorial/x212148869/Guest-column-What-happened-to-modesty|access-date=16 March 2012|newspaper=The Joplin Globe|date=16 August 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116053614/http://www.joplinglobe.com/editorial/x212148869/Guest-column-What-happened-to-modesty|archive-date=16 January 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Neha Kaura|title=Piercings make a fashion statement|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-20/trends/31779032_1_piercings-navel-ring-trend|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708061845/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-20/trends/31779032_1_piercings-navel-ring-trend|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 July 2012|access-date=25 May 2012|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|date=20 May 2012}}</ref> Some belly chains attach to a navel piercing; they are called "pierced belly chains".<ref>{{cite web|title=Belly Chains are Very Popular Among Girls|url=http://daaira.com/fashion/belly-chains-are-very-popular-among-girls/|website=daiira.com|access-date=29 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805153026/http://daaira.com/fashion/belly-chains-are-very-popular-among-girls/|archive-date=5 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
Line 57: Line 92:
==See also==
==See also==
*[[Cultural views on the midriff and navel]]
*[[Cultural views on the midriff and navel]]
*[[Vorarephilia]], which fetishizes ''being'' inside of the belly


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 11:49, 25 November 2024

A woman wearing a crop top and low rise jeans, leaving her belly exposed

A belly fetish (also known as a stomach fetish, or alvinolagnia)[1] is a partialism in which an individual is sexually attracted to the midriff[2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10] or belly.[11][12][13][14][15]

Description

[edit]

The belly is widely considered as an erogenous region,[16] meaning it holds multiple nerve endings that make it sensitive to various sensations.[17] Therefore, having a belly fetish usually coincides with belly-related sexual acts including but not limited to pressing a partner's belly, touching/rubbing the belly region, using sex toys and other objects (e.g., food, candles, ice, feathers, massage oils) to stimulate the belly region, rubbing one's belly against a partner's belly, or licking or sucking the navel.[18] For this reason, belly fetishism (alvinolagnia) often co-exists with navel fetishism (alvinophilia).[19][20] Overall, the belly fetish is a form of partialism.[17]

Belly-to-belly contact

[edit]

Individuals with alvinolagnia tend to enjoy having sexual intercourse in the missionary position given the position's heightened belly-to-belly contact between partners.[21] It is theorized that this sexual desire for belly-to-belly contact is linked to the evolutionary need for ventral-ventral contact when being nursed as an infant[22][23] or to entice feelings of being nurtured and loved.[24] One participant of a social experiment involving belly-to-belly contact described the act as "a very intimate thing, even when it's not meant to be."[25]

A couple demonstrating sexual belly-to-belly contact in the missionary position

Evolutionary Perspective

[edit]

The evolutionary need for ventral-ventral contact may arise from the need for physical contact, which is critical for human development.[26] This connection to early human development, where close physical contact is essential for survival, could explain why belly-to-belly contact remains comforting and desirable in adult relationships. Of particular importance, skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between a mother and her child is essential for establishing healthy attachment bonds and for regulating the child's physiological responses, which overall support well-being and stability.[27][28] For example, one study of 3,472 women and their infants following cesarean birth concluded that SSC infants demonstrated better cardio-respiratory stabilization and higher blood glucose levels when compared to non-SSC infants; however, the authors reportedly need larger sample sizes to confirm these physiological benefits.[29] Another study examining the attachment bonds of 16 highly satisfied heterosexual married couples showed that simple touch not only reinforces healthy attachment but also attenuates the activation of neurological stress responses and negative emotions.[30]

A mother provides skin-to-skin contact for her newborn infant

Belly-to-belly contact might also play a role in sexual selection, where close physical proximity and the sharing of warmth could be seen as indicators of a strong, nurturing partnership and the ability to provide nurturance to offspring.[31] This contact, whether in sexual or non-sexual contexts, can strengthen interindividual bonds, contributing to a sense of security and mutual support.[32]

Psychological and Socioemotional Perspective

[edit]

For some, belly-to-belly contact can be a deeply sensory experience, evoking feelings of comfort, safety, and connection.[33] The warmth and softness of this contact can be soothing and contribute to emotional regulation, much like how infants are calmed by close physical contact with their caregivers.[26][29][34] In adult relationships, this contact can reinforce a sense of closeness and emotional intimacy, extending beyond romantic contexts to include friendships and family bonds.[28][35]

Non-sexual belly-to-belly contact in a sports post-play celebration

These psychological undertones of ventral-ventral contact may also contribute to emotional and/or physiological arousal during objectively non-sexual belly-to-belly contact, which may happen when hugging or cuddling while wearing skin-revealing clothing (e.g., crop top, bikini);[36] taking part in some forms of partnered dance (e.g., bachata (dance), salsa (dance), tango (dance));[37] or participating in sports involving belly-to-belly contact either due to the sports' nature (e.g., wrestling, mixed martial arts)[38] or as a strategy for obtaining rest, breaking-up an opponent's rhythm, heightening camaraderie during play, and/or eliciting post-play celebration (e.g., boxing, beach volleyball).[39][40][41][42]

Band members wearing revealing clothing embracing post-concert, resulting in non-sexual belly-to-belly contact

Neuroscientific Perspective

[edit]

Belly-to-belly contact can stimulate release of oxytocin, the "bonding hormone," which plays a key role in forming social bonds, enhancing trust, and reducing stress.[43] Touching sensitive areas like the belly further amplifies this "bonding" effect, as sensitive touch can stimulate neuronal firing in the brain's reward center, the nucleus accumbens (NAc).[44][45] As a result, belly-to-belly contact neuropsychologically augments the emotional intimacy between two individuals.[46]

Moreover, as the torso contains numerous vital organs, belly-to-belly contact stimulates pathways related to thermoregulation and homeostasis.[47] A study of 51 newborns found that SSC with belly-to-belly touch was significantly more effective at regulating newborn body temperature and homeostasis than using radiant heat alone.[48] Therefore, belly-to-belly contact may help calm the autonomic nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.[49]

Cultural background

[edit]

Western culture

[edit]

Some assume that alvinolagnia is a cause of the prevalent western fashion of female midriff exposure.[50] In the Victorian era, a small waist was considered the main trait of a beautiful woman.[51] The advent of bikinis in 1946,[52] the cheerleading fashion of the 1970s[53] and low-rise fashion started in the early 1990s[54] have contributed to widespread fascination of the belly region. Specific breakthroughs of the belly region being featured in American media include Cher in the 1970s "The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour", as well as the character Ariel in Disney's The Little Mermaid (1989 film).[55] Midriff exposure also became common in the culture of 20th-century music with many famous female pop stars appearing on and offstage and in music videos with their midriff exposed.[56][57][58] Some get attracted to women wearing a crop top or bikini.[59]

Despite the prevalence of alvinolagnia, midriff exposure, and sexual belly-to-belly contact throughout Western pop culture, it is rare for belly-to-belly contact to be featured in Western media under a non-sexual tone. Nonetheless, non-sexual belly-to-belly contact in Western media generally represents either the establishment of a non-sexual friendship or the strengthening of an existing bond between two people.[60] For example, the North American sitcom Will & Grace features two characters, Jack and Karen, who initiate and periodically bolster their long-lasting friendship via non-sexual belly-to-belly touch,[61] a quirk so infamous that it appeared on the show's holiday special.[62] More recently, non-sexual belly-to-belly touch became a key characteristic of Bayley and Sasha Banks' The Boss n' Hug Connection, a former women's professional wrestling tag team known for engaging in a post-match celebration involving belly-to-belly hugs.[63]

In animated media

[edit]

Belly-to-belly contact, when discussed in context of cartoons and animation, refers to the close physical interactions between characters, which can convey intimacy, empathy, or conflict. This type of contact plays a significant role in visual storytelling, impacting viewers' emotional responses and social perceptions.[citation needed]

Psychological impact

[edit]

The psychology behind belly-to-belly contact (see above) suggests it can enhance the emotional connection between the character and the viewer. In animation, belly-to-belly contact may symbolize closeness or confrontation, depending on the inherent context. For example, characters in a supportive embrace may evoke feelings of warmth and safety in the viewer, whereas a more confrontational stance may communicate tension or conflict.[64]

Role in character development

[edit]

Belly-to-belly contact may be crucial in character design and development, especially when characters require complex relational and emotional dynamics. As a result, animators may use belly-to-belly contact to express complex narratives, allowing the viewer to infer a character's feelings and motivations via their physical closeness to or distance from other characters.[64][65]

Educational value

[edit]

Belly-to-belly contact may also serve educational purposes. In children's cartoons, belly-to-belly contact may teach valuable life lessons regarding relationships, interpersonal boundaries, reading one's bodily sensations, and emotional intelligence. For instance, seeing characters resolve their conflict via physical touch can assist younger viewers in understanding empathy and social skills.[64]

Humor and comedy

[edit]

Cartoons may use humorous physical interactions to invoke audience response. For example, characters may inadvertently collide, often resulting in exaggerated reactions, playful chaos, and/or belly-to-belly contact. Such slapstick humor engages viewers visually and enhances character dynamics by showcasing the complexity of characters' interpersonal relationships and dynamic socioemotional states.[64][65] More specifically, cartoons may use belly-to-belly contact to exaggerate physical comedy. For example, characters aiming for a gentle embrace may accidentally collide with unexpected force, leading to humorous outcomes. This visual form of humor also relies on slapstick humor that resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a powerful tool in animated narratives.[64][65]

Middle Eastern culture

[edit]
Belly dancing movements are considered to be seductive.

The eastern art of belly dancing places the female midriff on center stage.[66][67] The dance movements of the torso are considered to be seductive.[68]

Indian culture

[edit]
The exposure of midriff and navel in a sari
The exposure of midriff and navel in a sari

The bare female midriff is considered attractive and erotic in India.[69] Baring the midriff has always been a fashion in Indian women attire.[70][71] Indian women have traditionally worn saris[72] that bares the midriff, especially South Indian women.[73][74] The exposure of midriff in a sari is considered to be erotic.[75] The midriff is revealed in other traditional female attires like Ghagra choli.[76] Belly chains known as kamarband in India when worn with low-rise saris and lehengas are considered sensuous.[77] Most Indian women wear belly chains during weddings and other ceremonies as a show of culture and tradition. Nowadays, women have been pairing these chains with western outfits, mostly to draw attention to their figures.[78]

Men are intrigued by the demure floor-length attire and tantalising display of a bare midriff in the back.[79][80] Indian actress Ileana D'Cruz had commented that there were shots where a big porcelain seashell was thrown on her belly and flowers decorated around her waist during the shoot of her debut film and stated that the belly and navel is supposed to be a mark of a woman's beauty in South Indian films and they believe that the waist line is the most attractive part.[81][82][83][84] Indian singer Chinmayi once tweeted against a fan's request for saris during performances, saying, "Groups of men [...] take photographs of my waist + side of my chest, circle it and upload it on soft porn websites", adding that she "get[s] messages on how they're masturbating to it".[85]

Some Indian men are aroused by pinching a woman on her midriff bared by the sari.[86]

Accessories and tattoos

[edit]

Some people wear accessories like belly chains, navel piercings, tattoos etc., to enhance the appearance of the belly.[87] It can be a delicate thin or heavy thick chain.[78]

Navel piercing[88] and navel tattoos[89] have become more common among young women. The trend of piercing or tattooing the navel became popular in the 1990s.[90] It is popular among middle-aged women.[91][92] Some belly chains attach to a navel piercing; they are called "pierced belly chains".[93] Similar to navel piercings, hip piercings are also popular among women to express a bold personality.[94]

Some get stomach tattoos to attract attention of the onlookers,[95] but these tattoos are more commonly preferred by women. There are many variations in design, from tribal to flowers.[95][96] Some women even get these tattoos drawn on their lower backs[97] and flaunt them in low-rise jeans, shorts or skirts.[98]

Sometimes, looser clothing such as scarves or skirts around the female waist and curves can be sexually appealing.[99] Scarves wrapped around the waist are common among belly dancers.[98][100]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Holmes, Ronald M.; Holmes, Stephen T. (2002). "Sex crimes: patterns and behavior". Psychology (2, illustrated, reprint ed.). Sage Publications. p. 19. ISBN 9780761924173.
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  3. ^ Sternberg, Rosalyn (16 April 2014). "Understanding Sexual Fetishes And Paraphilias". Kinsey Confidential. Archived from the original on 4 March 2017. Retrieved 8 July 2014.
  4. ^ Curra, John (8 May 2013). The Relativity of Deviance. SAGE Publications. ISBN 9781483321202. Retrieved 8 July 2014.
  5. ^ Ian Kerner; Steph Auteri. Good in Bed Guide to 52 Weeks of Amazing Sex. Good in Bed Guides. p. 221. ISBN 978-0984322152. Retrieved 6 July 2014.[permanent dead link]
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  8. ^ Purnis, Jan (2010). "Digestive Tracts: Early Modern Discourses of Digestion". University of Toronto: 25–26.
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  10. ^ Snow, William Benham (1917). "The American Journal of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology, Volume 35". The American Journal of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology. 35. American Association of Electrotherapeutics and Radiology, American Electrotherapeutic Association, International Association of Climatologists, New York Electrotherapeutic Society (New York, N.Y.): 48–49.
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  14. ^ Swedenborg, Emanuel (1860). Of Heaven and its wonders, and of Hell, from what have been heard and seen. Translated from the original Latin, published in London 1758. p. 286.
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