Cultural and religious beliefs have always had an influence on human behavior, including sexual expression in relationships. In general, these beliefs tend to be conservative in nature, promoting monogamy, fidelity, and respect for authority figures such as parents and elders. However, this does not mean that there is no room for variation, as some cultures and religions allow for different forms of sexual expression within marriage, while others place restrictions on non-marital sexual activity altogether. This paper will explore how cultural and religious beliefs impact sexual expression in relationships from a sociological perspective, drawing upon research conducted among various groups across the world.
In most Western societies, monogamy is seen as the norm when it comes to sexual expression in relationships. The institution of marriage, which is often linked to religion, provides a social structure for procreation and family life, with adherence to traditional gender roles being expected. Men are typically seen as providers and protectors, while women are responsible for child-rearing and domestic duties. Sexual expression within marriage is often viewed as a way to express love and commitment between partners. For example, studies conducted in Europe and North America show that married couples engage in more frequent sexual intercourse than unmarried individuals or cohabitating couples (Hatfield & Rapson, 2018). However, this does not necessarily mean that all marriages are happy or fulfilling, as divorce rates remain high in many countries. It could also suggest that cultural pressures to conform to certain sexual expectations can lead to dissatisfaction if they do not match an individual's desires.
Religion also plays a role in shaping attitudes towards sex, particularly in relation to premarital relationships. Many Christian denominations prohibit any form of sexual expression outside of marriage, viewing it as sinful behavior. Islamic cultures have similar views, although there may be greater leniency regarding intimate touching or non-penetrative acts before marriage. Jewish traditions place emphasis on modesty and self-control, discouraging public displays of affection or casual encounters outside of marriage. In some cases, these beliefs may even extend into the bedroom, with some couples believing that certain positions or activities are forbidden by their faith. However, research has shown that religious people tend to report higher levels of satisfaction with their sex lives compared to non-religious individuals (Rudman et al., 2016). This suggests that religious teachings around sexuality can provide guidance and structure for individuals who feel unsure about what is appropriate or expected.
In contrast, other cultures value openness and experimentation when it comes to sexual expression. For example, studies conducted among indigenous communities in South America and Africa show that partners often engage in group sex, polyamory, or other forms of non-monogamy (Kalala & Mokonyane, 2015; Keller et al., 2017). This is seen as a way to promote social bonding and strengthen community ties, with little concern for societal expectations around monogamy. Similarly, some Eastern religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism emphasize non-attachment and detachment from worldly pleasures, allowing for more fluid sexual relationships without the expectation of exclusivity. These attitudes towards sexuality may seem counterintuitive to Western values, but they reflect a different set of cultural norms and values that may be just as valid.
Overall, cultural and religious beliefs have significant impacts on sexual expression in relationships. While traditional practices around monogamy, fidelity, and family life remain dominant in many parts of the world, alternative approaches are emerging that challenge these norms. Understanding how these beliefs shape our behavior and desires is essential if we want to create healthy and fulfilling intimate relationships.