Religious media refers to various forms of communication that convey religious messages, including literature, art, music, film, television, radio, social media, and digital publications. While these media may serve different purposes, they share a common goal of educating and influencing individuals on matters related to religion, morality, and spirituality. In recent years, there has been growing interest in exploring how religious media shapes people's beliefs about sexuality and intimacy. Specifically, researchers have examined whether exposure to prescriptive teachings, such as those found in sacred texts, can influence sexual attitudes, behaviors, and psychological well-being.
This article will provide an overview of the research literature on this topic, highlighting key findings and implications for practice. The focus is on Christianity because it is one of the most widely practiced religions globally and has extensive teachings on sex and sexuality.
Many of the insights apply to other religions, including Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, and others.
Prescriptive Teachings on Sexuality
Christian teachings on sexuality are diverse but generally fall into two categories: prescriptive and descriptive. Prescriptive teachings refer to rules or guidelines that dictate what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior, while descriptive teachings describe what happens during and after sex.
The Bible says "Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable." (Leviticus 18:22) This verse prescribes heterosexual intercourse between a married couple as the only permissible form of sexual activity.
Sexual acts outside of marriage, including premarital sex, adultery, incest, homosexuality, bestiality, and pedophilia, are considered sinful. The Bible also describes sexual pleasure as a temptation that should be avoided unless within the confines of marriage.
Exposure to Religious Media and Psychological Well-Being
Exposure to religious media can impact individuals' beliefs about sexuality in various ways. Some studies suggest that exposure may lead people to adopt more conservative attitudes towards sex, while others find no association. Similarly, research has yielded mixed results regarding the relationship between religious media consumption and psychological well-being, with some studies finding positive effects and others negative ones. One study found that regular church attendance was associated with better mental health outcomes, such as lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Other studies have found that heavy religious involvement can increase feelings of guilt and shame related to sexuality, leading to increased distress.
Implications for Practice
The findings from this literature highlight the complex role of religion in shaping sexual beliefs and behaviors. On the one hand, religious teachings can promote healthy relationships and intimacy by emphasizing monogamy, exclusivity, and love. On the other hand, they may contribute to sexual repression, fear, and stigma, especially if they convey narrow or restrictive views on sexuality. Clinicians working with clients from religious backgrounds need to consider these issues when assessing and treating their clients. They should ask about their clients' beliefs and practices around sex and discuss any concerns or challenges they may be experiencing.
Clinicians can recommend evidence-based interventions that align with the client's values and beliefs, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness meditation.
Religious media play an essential role in shaping sexual beliefs and behaviors, impacting people's attitudes towards sex and affecting their psychological well-being. While there are benefits and drawbacks to exposure to prescriptive teachings, it is crucial to recognize and address these issues in clinical practice. By doing so, clinicians can help individuals navigate the intersection between religion and sexuality, promoting healthy relationships and intimacy while avoiding harmful consequences.
How does religious media shape sexual beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, and what are the psychological effects of exposure to prescriptive teachings?
Religious media plays an important role in shaping people's sexual beliefs, attitudes, and behavior. It is argued that exposure to prescriptive teachings from religious media can have significant psychological effects on individuals. Firstly, religious media often presents a set of moral guidelines for appropriate sexual behavior that may be different from those found in secular sources.