Post-Soviet religious norms have been known to influence various aspects of society including sexual behavior, erotic desires, and marital intimacy among young people. Sexuality is a critical part of human life that needs to be explored beyond the boundaries of physical satisfaction. It encompasses emotional attachment, love, and companionship. Religious values play an essential role in shaping the way post-Soviet youth approach their sexual lives. The Soviet Union was founded in 1922, and it lasted for almost 80 years before its collapse in 1991. During this time, the country underwent many changes, including political, social, economic, cultural, and religious transformation. One of the most significant changes observed during this period was the adoption of Christianity as the official state religion. This change affected the way people viewed sex and how they interacted with each other. After the fall of the Soviet Union, there was a sharp increase in the number of people who embraced Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and traditional African religions. These new religious norms influenced the way young people perceived sex, which consequently affected their marital relationships and intimacy levels.
One of the ways post-Soviet religious norms influence sexual behavior is through promoting abstinence until marriage. In the pre-Soviet era, sexual activity was considered taboo and frowned upon by society.
After the fall of the communist regime, sexual freedom became more acceptable, leading to increased promiscuity. Post-Soviet religious norms teach young people that sex should only happen between married couples and within marriage. They promote monogamy and discourage casual sex. This belief system has led to a decrease in the rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among young people. It also encourages them to wait longer before engaging in sexual activity, leading to fewer teenage pregnancies and abortions. Another way these norms affect sexual behavior is by shaping attitudes towards homosexuality. In some parts of the world, such as Russia and Ukraine, same-sex relationships are illegal, while others allow it but do not condone it. This stigma creates an environment where gay youths are often bullied and ostracised from society. It also makes it difficult for them to find partners who will accept their sexual orientation. As a result, many young gays hide their true identities or move out of their countries to seek safe spaces.
Post-Soviet religious norms also impact erotic desire among youth. The Soviet Union was known for its liberal policies regarding pornography and prostitution. Women were allowed to work in strip clubs and brothels without facing any legal consequences.
This changed after the collapse of the regime when Islamic and Christian values took over. Many post-Soviet nations adopted strict rules against pornography and prostitution, making it challenging for young people to access these services legally. These changes have affected how they view sexual desires and fantasies.
Most youths now consider pornography immoral and sinful, which reduces their interest in it. They are also taught that intimacy should only happen within marriage, thus reducing the frequency of casual encounters with strangers. On the other hand, some religions promote celibacy, which can negatively impact one's sex life. Some religious leaders encourage their followers to abstain from all forms of physical contact until they get married, including hugging, kissing, and touching. This belief system can lead to frustration and repressed emotions, resulting in lower levels of marital intimacy.
Marital intimacy is another area heavily influenced by post-Soviet religious norms. Many new faiths teach couples to maintain an active sex life once they get married.
Islam encourages frequent intercourse between husband and wife as a way of expressing love and affection. In contrast, Buddhism teaches partners to engage in Tantric sex, which involves prolonged foreplay and spiritual connection during intercourse. Other religions discourage oral sex, anal sex, and use of contraceptives. These restrictions limit what couples can do in bed and affect the overall level of intimacy between them. Post-Soviet religious norms influence the way young people approach their sexual lives, erotic desires, and marital relationships. The rise of these values has led to positive changes such as reduced STD rates and improved morality.
It has also limited access to certain services, created stigmas around homosexuality, and affected how youths view intimacy.
How do post-Soviet religious norms influence sexual behavior, erotic desire, and marital intimacy among youth?
Post-Soviet generations have been heavily influenced by their religious and cultural traditions that shape their perception of sex, erotic desire, and marital intimacy. The traditional values are still rooted deeply within them which affects their behavior, beliefs, and attitudes about these topics.