Sexual discipline is a way to control one's own body, behavior, and feelings towards others. It includes abstaining from all forms of sexual activity outside marriage and even within it when married couples choose to do so for religious reasons. In some cases, this can be voluntary but in many religions, especially Christianity, it is enforced through strong moral codes that discourage any form of physical contact between individuals who are not blood relatives, including kissing or holding hands. This kind of discipline has long-term relational consequences because it prevents people from expressing their true emotions and desires freely.
Impact on Marriage
When married couples follow strict rules about sex, they may experience difficulties in communication, trust, and intimacy. They may feel uncomfortable talking about their needs and preferences, which can lead to resentment and frustration. Moreover, if the wife does not satisfy her husband's sexual needs, he might look elsewhere for satisfaction, leading to infidelity and divorce. On the other hand, if she satisfies him too much, she could become an object of worship instead of being loved as a person. Also, if both partners have different levels of sexual desire, they might face problems in fulfilling each other's desires, leading to conflicts.
Effect on Children
Strict sexual discipline affects children indirectly because it limits the education they receive at home about sexuality. Parents who teach their children to abstain from sex before marriage often fail to educate them on how to handle romantic relationships safely or talk openly about it with others. This makes children unaware of their own bodies and feelings, which leads to confusion when they grow up. When they enter adulthood, they might be ashamed of their sexual urges or unable to control them properly, leading to risky behavior such as promiscuity or rape.
Social Isolation
People who practice strict sexual discipline tend to withdraw from social life due to feeling guilty or embarrassed by their beliefs. They may avoid parties, dates, or gatherings where there is any chance of physical contact between people. As a result, they become isolated socially and emotionally, which can lead to depression or loneliness.
Impact on Society
Sexual discipline affects society because it creates a culture where people are afraid of expressing themselves freely, especially women. Women must remain virgins until marriage, while men are expected to restrain themselves from premarital sex. This reinforces gender roles that deny women's rights and freedoms. It also contributes to stigma around sex outside marriage, making people feel ashamed for having natural urges. Therefore, many couples stay in unhappy marriages due to fear of judgment rather than admitting their problems and seeking help.
What are the long-term relational consequences of strict sexual discipline imposed by spiritual or religious communities?
The long-term relational consequences of strict sexual discipline imposed by spiritual or religious communities can vary widely depending on several factors such as individual personalities, cultural backgrounds, and belief systems. In general, however, strict sexual discipline may lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety related to sex and intimacy, which can affect relationships over time.