Religious absolutism refers to an inflexible belief that one's religion is the sole path to salvation or enlightenment, often requiring adherents to follow strict rules regarding morality, including sexual behavior. This can lead to intense feelings of shame when individuals make sexual mistakes, which may be defined as anything from premarital sex to extramarital affairs to homosexuality. Such shame can have profound psychological and emotional effects, causing depression, anxiety, self-harm, and even suicide attempts. In this article, we will explore how religious absolutism contributes to these negative consequences.
The primary way in which religious absolutism intensifies shame around sexual mistakes is through its rigid moral code. Religions such as Islam, Catholicism, and Mormonism have strict guidelines for appropriate sexual behavior, which often include prohibitions against premarital sex, extramarital relationships, homosexuality, and masturbation. These rules are intended to promote chastity, fidelity, and procreation, but they also create a sense of guilt and self-loathing when violated. Individuals who transgress these boundaries feel that they have failed God or their community, and may become obsessed with confessing and repenting for their "sin."
Another factor contributing to shame is the stigma surrounding certain types of sexual behavior.
Many religions view homosexuality as sinful, leading LGBTQ+ people to experience intense social pressure to conform to heteronormative expectations. This can cause internalized homophobia and sexual dysphoria, creating a vicious cycle of shame and repression. Similarly, women who engage in non-traditional sexual practices such as BDSM or polyamory may be shamed for not following societal norms.
Religious absolutism also exacerbates feelings of guilt by emphasizing the importance of purity and sanctity. Adherents are encouraged to view themselves as pure vessels through which divinity can enter, but any deviation from this ideal results in impurity and spiritual pollution. This belief system encourages individuals to see themselves as fundamentally flawed and unworthy, perpetuating a cycle of low self-esteem and depression.
The result of all this shame is often mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, and even suicide attempts. Studies have shown that religious groups with more rigid moral codes are more likely to suffer from higher rates of mental illness, suggesting a direct link between religious dogma and psychological distress. Shame around sexual mistakes may lead some individuals to seek out therapy or treatment, but it can also lead others to become isolated and withdraw into themselves, cutting off contact with loved ones and isolating further.
There are ways to combat these negative consequences. Firstly, individuals can learn to accept themselves despite their mistakes, recognizing that they are still worthy and deserving of love and compassion. They should avoid comparing themselves to others, and instead focus on their own values and beliefs. Secondly, they can reach out to supportive friends, family members, or counselors who can provide empathy and understanding without judgment.
They can explore alternative religions or spiritual practices that offer greater flexibility and inclusivity regarding sexuality, allowing them to live authentically and without fear.
In what ways does religious absolutism intensify shame around sexual mistakes?
"Religious absolutism can create an atmosphere of moralistic judgement where even small infractions are considered to be grave sins with dire consequences. " This creates an environment where people feel ashamed for making mistakes related to sex because they fear the punishment that might result from their actions. Religious absolutism also reinforces traditional gender roles, which often dictate that men should not have premarital sex and women should remain virgins until marriage.