Parental gender norms are deeply rooted beliefs that society has about how boys and girls should behave based on their biological sex. These norms can have significant effects on the way young people develop their attitudes towards sex and sexuality. Studies show that parents who adhere to traditional gender roles may raise children who hold conservative views on sexuality, while those who challenge these norms may foster more open-minded perspectives.
If a father believes that it is a mother's responsibility to teach her daughter about puberty, he may be less likely to provide accurate information himself, which could lead his daughter to feel embarrassed or ashamed when discussing her changing body with him. Conversely, a parent who encourages their child to explore different identities and express themselves freely may help them become more comfortable with their own sexuality and less likely to conform to societal expectations. This can have important implications for the development of healthy relationships later in life.
Researchers have found that children raised in homes where gender stereotypes are reinforced are more likely to internalize restrictive messages about what is acceptable behavior for men and women. In one study, participants were asked to read vignettes describing families in which parents either enforced rigid gender roles (e.g., "boys must play sports") or encouraged their children to pursue activities they enjoyed regardless of gender. Those exposed to the latter scenario reported feeling more comfortable exploring their sexual orientation as adults. Another study examined the impact of gender role models on the sexual attitudes of 18-29 year olds and found that those who had been exposed to mixed-gendered role models were more likely to believe that sex before marriage was acceptable than those who did not. These findings suggest that breaking down traditional gender stereotypes early on can help young people develop a healthier attitude towards sex and intimacy.
Some argue that adherence to gender norms can also have positive effects on youth's sexual development.
Research has shown that young girls who identify as feminine tend to experience fewer negative emotions surrounding puberty and sexual development compared to their peers who do not.
Boys who adopt masculine traits such as athleticism and independence may be better able to cope with stressors associated with sexual development. Despite these benefits, it is clear that parental gender norms can influence young adults' sexual attitudes in significant ways.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to raising children, breaking down gender stereotypes and promoting open communication about sexuality can help cultivate a more accepting and healthy relationship with sex among young people. By challenging societal expectations, parents can empower their children to explore their own identities and make informed decisions about their relationships and sexual experiences.
How do parental gender norms affect sexual attitudes in young adults?
Parental gender norms can have significant impact on the sexual attitudes of young adults. Parental influence is often the strongest determinant of adolescent sexual development, with children learning about sex from their parents' behavior, attitudes, and beliefs (Rushton & Lacey, 2019).