Sexuality is an important aspect of human life that is often influenced by cultural norms and values. In many cultures, including Georgia, there are social expectations about when and how people should express their sexual desires.
In some traditional communities in Georgia, it is considered taboo to have sex before marriage.
This does not mean that young adults do not engage in premarital sexual activities. This article explores how Georgian religious norms frame premarital sexual activity and its psychological impact on young adults.
Georgian religious norms
Religion plays a significant role in shaping the attitudes towards premarital sex in Georgia. The dominant religion in the country is Christian Orthodoxy, which has clear views on sexuality. According to Christian teachings, sex should be reserved for married couples within the confines of marriage. Premarital sex is seen as sinful, and those who engage in it risk being excommunicated from the church or facing other forms of punishment.
Premarital sex
Despite these beliefs, many young adults in Georgia engage in premarital sex due to various reasons such as peer pressure, curiosity, and lack of knowledge about sexual health.
They tend to keep this information secret because it goes against societal norms. As a result, young people feel guilty, ashamed, and isolated, leading to negative psychological effects such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. They may also develop sexual dysfunctions, such as difficulty achieving orgasm or forming meaningful relationships.
Young adults' challenges
Some young adults struggle with feelings of guilt and shame after having premarital sex because they believe that they have violated their values and cultural norms. Others fear that their families will find out and disapprove of them. Some even face social isolation, especially if their partners come from different communities or religions. In some cases, parents may force their children into arranged marriages to 'correct' their behavior.
Consequences of religious norms
The rigid religious norms surrounding sexuality can create more harm than good by making young people hide their experiences and seek unsafe means to explore their sexuality. This can lead to unplanned pregnancies, STDs, and mental health issues. Young people are also denied access to comprehensive sexual education and contraception, which puts them at greater risk for unwanted pregnancy and HIV/AIDS.
Calls for change
There is growing awareness among Georgian youth that the current approach to sexuality is not working, and there is a need for more open discussions on sexual matters. Some organizations are advocating for a new sexuality policy that respects individual choices while promoting safe sex practices. This would involve educating young people about sexual health, consent, and gender equality. It would also provide support services for those who experience negative consequences of premarital sex.
Georgian religious norms frame premarital sexual activity as sinful and taboo.
Many young adults engage in it due to various reasons. This creates psychological challenges such as guilt, shame, and social isolation. The current approach to sexuality needs to be revised to promote safer and more responsible behaviors among young people.
How do Georgian religious norms frame premarital sexual activity and its psychological impact on young adults?
According to the World Values Survey conducted by Wave 7 (2018), only 6% of Georgians have had sex before marriage, while the average number is 45%. In Georgian culture, premarital sex is taboo because it violates traditional values and customs.