How Relationship Expectations Shape Sexual Expectations
How are you expected to behave in romantic situations? What is your partner's attitude towards sex? What does it mean for your self-esteem? When it comes to sexual encounters between partners in a relationship, how much influence do gender, age, social background, religion, culture, environment, media, education, upbringing, peer groups, family values, parental expectations, and personal history have? In this article, I will explore the connection between relationship expectations and sexual expectations in emerging adults, focusing specifically on the impact of their parents' attitudes towards sex and dating.
Impact of Parents' Attitudes Towards Sex
Parents play an important role in shaping their children's views on intimacy and sexuality.
If parents are very strict about sex and avoidance of premarital relationships, they may teach their kids that sex should be reserved for marriage. This can lead to a view of sex as something dirty or taboo, which can make young people feel guilty or ashamed about exploring their own sexuality. On the other hand, if parents openly discuss sex and encourage responsible behavior, such as using contraception and respecting others, their children may develop healthier attitudes towards sex. This is especially true for girls who grow up with more egalitarian views about sex than boys.
Impact of Parents' Dating Experiences
A study by Bershteyn et al. found that parents' past experiences with dating and relationships can also affect their children's views on romantic and sexual relationships. If parents had positive experiences with dating and relationships growing up, they may be more likely to allow their children to date at an earlier age and engage in sexual activities.
If their parents were uncomfortable with dating and/or sex, they may discourage their children from pursuing similar behaviors. These experiences can create a sense of shame around dating and sex that persists into adulthood.
Influence of Peer Groups and Media
In addition to parental influences, peer groups and media also shape emerging adults' expectations for relationships and sex. Friends may encourage one another to have casual sex or enter serious relationships. Media messages about love, romance, and sex can reinforce these ideas or challenge them.
Some studies suggest that social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat normalize hookup culture, while others say they promote relationship-building skills. The influence of peers and media can vary depending on individual differences, but they are important factors to consider when understanding how people view intimacy.
Balancing Expectations
Emerging adults face many challenges as they navigate the complex world of dating and sex. Their expectations are shaped by multiple factors, including family, friends, and media. It is important for individuals to find a balance between what they want and what society expects. This means being honest with themselves about their desires and needs, communicating openly with partners, and setting boundaries around physical and emotional intimacy. By recognizing the impact of external forces on their own beliefs and values, young people can make informed decisions about their sexuality and relationships.
How do relationship expectations shape sexual expectations in emerging adults?
Expectations play an important role in influencing various types of relationships, including romantic ones. In the case of emerging adults, both relationship and sexual expectations are shaped by a variety of factors such as personal experiences, cultural norms, media portrayals, and peer influence.