Abstinence-focused religious education has become increasingly popular among conservative Christians who believe that premarital sex is sinful and immoral. This belief system promotes abstinence until marriage and discourages any type of sexual activity outside of this context.
Research suggests that this approach may have negative consequences for individuals' sexual confidence, relational intimacy, and erotic satisfaction.
Effects on Sexual Confidence
One potential consequence of abstinence-focused religious education is a lack of sexual confidence. If an individual has never had sex before marriage, they may feel uncertain about their ability to perform well during intercourse or satisfy their partner. They may also be more likely to experience performance anxiety or shame if they do engage in sexual activities.
Some studies suggest that individuals who have been taught abstinence are less likely to seek out accurate information about sexual health and safe sex practices, which can further decrease their confidence.
Effects on Relational Intimacy
Another effect of abstinence-focused religious education is difficulty establishing and maintaining relational intimacy. In many cases, individuals who have been raised with this belief system are expected to enter into monogamous relationships without ever having experienced other types of intimate interactions. This can lead to difficulties communicating effectively about sex and navigating complex emotional dynamics within a relationship. It can also make it harder for individuals to explore their own desires and boundaries, potentially leading to feelings of guilt or shame.
Effects on Erotic Satisfaction
Abstinence-focused religious education may impact an individual's erotic satisfaction. Research indicates that individuals who have not engaged in premarital sex tend to report lower levels of sexual arousal and pleasure than those who have. This can lead to dissatisfaction in both marital and non-marital relationships. Some experts also argue that the emphasis on purity and abstinence may reinforce gendered stereotypes around masculinity and femininity, making it harder for individuals to explore their full range of desires and fantasies.
What are the effects of abstinence-focused religious education on sexual confidence, relational intimacy, and erotic satisfaction?
The research on abstinence-focused religious education suggests that it has both positive and negative effects on sexual confidence, relational intimacy, and erotic satisfaction. On one hand, some studies suggest that individuals who receive such education may experience an increase in self-esteem and personal growth, as well as improved relationships with their partners (Averett et al. , 2018).