Eastern Europe is known for its rich culture and traditions, including distinct belief systems about love, marriage, and sexual relations.
Recent studies have shown that these values are changing rapidly, especially among younger generations.
The age of marriage has been increasing steadily while the average length of premarital cohabitation is decreasing. At the same time, premarital sexual initiation rates are rising, yet there is no clear consensus on how cultural norms affect this trend. Moreover, research suggests that Eastern European couples may experience more conflict when it comes to relational communication than their Western counterparts. This article explores the impact of religious norms regarding cohabitation, anticipation, and relational communication on premarital sexual initiation. It delves into why young people choose to have sex before marriage and what factors contribute to their decision. Lastly, it discusses the implications of these findings for policy makers, educators, and healthcare providers working with diverse populations in Eastern Europe.
Cohabitation
Cohabitation refers to living together without being married. In many Eastern European countries, including Russia, Poland, Romania, and Hungary, it was uncommon until recently. Traditionally, families lived separately from each other, but nowadays, the number of households consisting of two or more adults who are not related by blood has increased dramatically. According to a survey conducted in 2019, nearly half of all Polish citizens between the ages of 25-34 live with a partner outside of marriage. Similarly, the proportion of Romanians aged 18-64 living with a romantic partner rose from 28% in 2007 to 41% in 2019. The rise in cohabitation reflects a shift in attitudes toward relationships and marriage. Young people prefer to establish intimate bonds outside of wedlock before tying the knot, citing practical reasons such as financial constraints and personal freedom. Some also see no need to formalize their commitment through marriage because they consider it an outdated tradition that doesn't suit modern society.
Premarital Sexual Initiation
Premarital sexual initiation is the first instance of sexual intercourse occurring before marriage. While there is no clear consensus on why young people choose to have sex before marriage, some studies suggest that religious norms play a role.
Russian Orthodox Christians believe that premarital sex is forbidden and that it leads to adverse consequences such as infertility, miscarriages, and mental illnesses. These beliefs may discourage couples from engaging in sexual activities before marriage, but at the same time, they do not seem to prevent them from doing so. A survey found that 53% of Russians had lost their virginity by age 20, while another study revealed that 74% of Romanian respondents had engaged in premarital sex. Eastern European cultures tend to emphasize the importance of family, including extended relatives, which may lead to more conservative attitudes about sex.
Younger generations are increasingly open to exploring their sexuality without fear of judgement or repercussions. They view sex as a natural part of life and don't think twice about having it before marriage.
Erotic Anticipation
Erotic anticipation refers to the pleasure derived from the thought of engaging in sexual activity. It is associated with feelings of arousal, excitement, and joy. Research suggests that erotic anticipation affects premarital initiation because it creates an emotional connection between partners. Couples who share similar values and expectations about sex are more likely to initiate intercourse sooner than those who disagree on these issues. In Eastern Europe, where cohabitation has become more common, this effect may be stronger because couples can explore their sexual desires within the context of a committed relationship.
Religious norms may play a role, as some believe that waiting for marriage increases intimacy and strengthens bonds between partners. Nevertheless, research shows that many young people have high levels of sexual desire, regardless of whether they are married or single. They may feel comfortable discussing sexual matters early on in relationships and expressing what they want from their partner.
Relational Communication
Relational communication involves verbal and nonverbal interactions between partners that foster closeness and understanding. It includes listening actively, sharing thoughts and feelings, resolving conflicts, and negotiating differences. Studies show that Eastern European couples struggle with relational communication more often than Western ones due to cultural factors such as low trust, high distrust, and power imbalances.
Women tend to rely heavily on men when making decisions regarding finance, family, and social life. This dynamic may lead to conflict over sexual practices, which can result in dissatisfaction and infidelity. On the other hand, some studies suggest that cohabitation before marriage may reduce tension by allowing partners to learn each other's preferences and boundaries without the pressure of wedding vows. Therefore, premarital initiation may not necessarily worsen relational communication but could improve it if done properly.
How do Eastern European religious norms regarding cohabitation affect premarital sexual initiation, erotic anticipation, and relational communication?
Most of the Eastern European countries follow strict social and religious norms for romantic and sexual relationships. These norms are based on traditional values that emphasize abstinence before marriage and fidelity within marriage. According to these norms, premarital sex is considered sinful and is discouraged by society, parents, and religious leaders. This may impact young adults' attitudes towards premarital sex as they may feel guilt and shame associated with engaging in such behavior.