Internalized religious morality is a set of beliefs about what is right and wrong, good and bad, appropriate and inappropriate, in relation to sexual behavior. These beliefs are often based on specific doctrines or teachings from one's religion or faith tradition, such as those found in the Bible or Quran.
Some religions may emphasize abstinence before marriage, monogamy within marriage, and celibacy outside of marriage. Others may place restrictions on certain types of sexual activity, such as homosexuality or premarital sex. Some may even forbid all forms of sexual expression outside of procreative purposes. These religious norms can influence how individuals view and experience their own sexual desires, fantasies, and relationships.
Some people who internalize these religious moral guidelines may feel shame or guilt about their sexual urges or thoughts, leading them to repress or avoid them altogether. This can lead to difficulty forming healthy romantic relationships, experiencing pleasure during sex, or exploring their erotic interests. On the other hand, others may find that their religious values align with their personal desire for a more traditional and conservative approach to sex, creating harmony between their spiritual and emotional lives.
The impact of religious beliefs on erotic cognition can also vary depending on the individual's level of religiosity and adherence to their faith. Those who are highly devoted to their religion may be less likely to engage in risky behaviors like extramarital affairs or frequent masturbation. They may also have stronger commitment to their partner, prioritizing fidelity and loyalty over self-gratification.
Some studies suggest that strict religious morality may actually increase the likelihood of problematic behavior, such as infidelity or promiscuity. This is due to a sense of hypocrisy or dissonance between one's actions and beliefs, which can lead to greater levels of stress and anxiety. In addition, those raised in very strict or conservative religious environments may struggle with feelings of sexual shame and low self-esteem, which can negatively impact their relational decisions.
Whether or not a person's religious morality influences their erotic cognition depends on many factors, including their cultural background, upbringing, and personal experiences. It's important to recognize that these beliefs are complex and multifaceted, and it's crucial to consider them thoughtfully when navigating relationships and sexual expression.
How does internalized religious morality influence erotic cognition, sexual fantasy, and relational decision-making?
Research on the topic suggests that individuals with high levels of internalized religious morality may experience greater difficulty in expressing their sexual desires due to feelings of guilt and shame associated with their sexuality. This can lead them to engage in fewer sexual activities, including masturbation, which can have negative impacts on their sex lives (Ferguson & Buss, 2015; Vanhoutte et al. , 2019).