First-generation immigrants are those who were born outside their country of origin but moved to another one to live permanently. Second-generation immigrants are those whose parents were also born abroad. Third-generation immigrants have grandparents from different countries, while fourth-generation immigrants can be considered natives of their new country. It is believed that second-generation immigrants may be more likely to identify with their native culture than their host culture because they grew up there, unlike third- or fourth-generation immigrants. This means that they could share some cultural differences with their parents' generation regarding sexual expectations.
It is unclear if these differences extend to sexual behaviors.
Sexual Expectations Between Generations
Immigrant generations differ in terms of how much they accept sex as part of their identity. First-generation immigrants often see it as necessary for procreation, which is why they might feel guilty about having sex before marriage.
Women raised in Latin America or Asia are taught to behave modestly, avoiding public displays of affection and focusing on family values instead of romance. They tend to have less casual sex, fewer partners, and a higher age of first intercourse.
Many of them will engage in sexual activities when they marry, which shows a lack of openness. On the other hand, children of immigrants from Africa and Central Europe may not have such strict rules but still value virginity until marriage.
Cultural Context
First-generation immigrants may face difficulties adapting to their new surroundings, including understanding the social norms. This can affect their perception of sexuality and what is acceptable behaviorally or morally. Some cultures do not allow physical intimacy outside of marriage, while others frown upon public displays of affection.
Different countries have different laws and customs governing consent, premarital sex, pornography, nudity, masturbation, homosexuality, and abortion. It is easy to see that there could be disconnect between two people with different backgrounds regarding how they view sex.
Gender Roles
Another difference is gender roles, especially those related to sexuality. While Western culture tends to encourage men and women to be independent, some Asian and African societies demand chastity from women. Immigrant parents may also expect their daughters to remain virgins until marriage because it signifies purity and respectability. In contrast, second-generation Americans are more likely to follow the prevailing sexual attitudes where they live. Men may have more freedom than women in terms of having multiple partners, flirting, and dating freely without pressure from family members.
Third- or fourth-generation individuals are less constrained by these traditions.
Sexual Satisfaction
Because first-generation immigrants were raised under very strict rules, they might feel guilty about exploring their sexual desires. They may not know how to talk about them with a partner because of cultural taboos. Second-generation immigrants often have fewer restrictions but still face stereotypes based on race or ethnicity. Third- and fourth-generation immigrants, however, tend to be more open and willing to discuss intimate topics. This can lead to better communication within relationships, which contributes to higher levels of satisfaction for both partners.
If one person wants more sexual activities while the other does not, they can negotiate and find a solution together.
How do sexual expectations differ between first-generation immigrants and individuals raised within the host culture?
Sexual expectations can vary greatly between individuals of different generations, but research suggests that there are significant differences between those who were born outside of their current country of residence compared to those who have lived in the same place for multiple generations. First-generation immigrants may face unique challenges when it comes to navigating sexual norms and expectations within their new society due to cultural differences, language barriers, and social pressures.