Noustuessa

Noustuessa is a term that emerged from online communities, particularly within certain fandoms and internet subcultures. It describes a state of being simultaneously aware of something and yet choosing to ignore it, often for reasons of comfort, social harmony, or to avoid difficult emotional responses. This can manifest in various ways, such as pretending not to notice a controversial opinion expressed by a friend, or deliberately overlooking flaws in a beloved piece of media to preserve a positive emotional connection. The term is often used humorously or self-deprecatingly, acknowledging the common human tendency to engage in selective perception. It highlights a nuanced aspect of social interaction and personal coping mechanisms in the digital age, where information and opinions are readily available and often conflicting. The concept of noustuessa is not necessarily about denial in a clinical sense, but rather a conscious or semi-conscious decision to let certain pieces of information pass by without active engagement or acknowledgment. It can be seen as a form of mental buffer, allowing individuals to maintain a desired emotional state or social standing in the face of overwhelming or challenging stimuli.