In today's world, religion is becoming more prevalent and influential than ever before, especially among young people who are struggling to identify their own values and beliefs. As a result, many individuals find themselves grappling with conflicting feelings between what they have been taught about sex from an early age and how they actually feel deep down inside. This can lead to confusion, guilt, and even shame when it comes to making decisions regarding one's sexual identity, relational ethics, and personal agency within the context of one's faith community.
One of the main areas where this conflict often plays out is in the realm of sexual morality. Many religions promote abstinence until marriage, strict monogamy, and heteronormative gender roles that may be difficult for some people to reconcile with their innate desires and attractions. Internalizing these messages can lead to feelings of self-doubt, low self-esteem, and even depression if someone does not fit into these ideals. It can also create a sense of shame or guilt around exploring one's sexuality outside of traditional norms, even if those norms do not align with one's true desires. This can make it harder for individuals to form healthy relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and intimacy.
Internalized religious sexual morality can limit one's capacity for erotic agency, or the ability to express oneself freely and authentically in matters related to sexuality. If someone has grown up believing that certain forms of expression or activity are sinful or wrong, they may struggle to communicate openly and honestly with partners about their needs and preferences. This can result in a lack of fulfillment, miscommunication, and even resentment.
It can leave individuals vulnerable to exploitation by others who take advantage of their insecurities and use them as a means of control or manipulation.
Internalized religious sexual morality can have far-reaching effects on an individual's personal life and relationships. It is important to recognize that everyone is different and no single set of beliefs will work for every person. By challenging ourselves to explore our own thoughts and values, we can begin to break free from the shackles of external expectations and develop a more authentic understanding of who we are as individuals.
How does internalized religious sexual morality affect sexual identity, relational ethics, and erotic agency?
The research by Evertson et al. (2018) on the influence of religion on individuals' self-perceptions of their bodies suggests that internalized religious moral beliefs can have a significant impact on sexuality, sexual identity, and romantic relationships. Internalized religious sexual morality may involve feelings of guilt, shame, anxiety, and other negative emotions related to sexual desires and practices, which may lead to difficulties with intimacy and sex in close relationships.