The article focuses on how religious sex education in Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish families influences adolescent sexual knowledge, relational skills, and erotic self-concept. These three religions differ greatly from one another in their approach to sexuality, which can have significant impacts on teenagers' understanding of sex.
Catholicism teaches that sex is for procreation within marriage between husband and wife only, and thus forbids all non-marital sex, including masturbation. This creates a sense of shame around sexual pleasure, and makes it difficult for teens to learn about their own bodies. The lack of frank discussion about sex also means they may be unprepared when faced with situations where they need to make decisions about contraception, consent, or STIs.
This view does encourage chastity, respect for oneself and others, and faithfulness once married.
Protestantism, meanwhile, often emphasizes abstinence until marriage but acknowledges that married couples should enjoy healthy physical intimacy. This allows for more open discussion about sexual behavior, and encourages relationships based on mutual trust, love, and communication. Teens who grow up in this environment are likely to have better relational skills than those raised in stricter traditions. On the other hand, they may feel pressure to conform to traditional gender roles and expectations.
Judaism takes an even broader view of sexuality, celebrating sexual expression within committed relationships as a source of joy and connection. This promotes positive body image, self-love, and sensitivity to partners' needs. Jewish families may also be more open to discussing LGBTQ+ issues and relationships.
Some interpretations of Judaism can lead to guilt over erotic desires and shame around masturbation. All three religions place a strong emphasis on modesty, which can lead to confusion around what is acceptable and when.
Religious sex education has significant impacts on adolescent sexual knowledge, relational skills, and erotic self-concept. Catholic and Protestant approaches tend to promote chastity and monogamy while limiting information about safe sex and pleasure. Jewish teachings focus more on the positives of sexual expression but still carry baggage from traditional views of gender and sexuality. All three faiths offer potential benefits and drawbacks for teenagers.
How does religious sex education in Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish families influence adolescent sexual knowledge, relational skills, and erotic self-concept?
Research on religious sex education has shown that it can have various effects on adolescents' sexual knowledge, relational skills, and erotic self-concept. In Catholic families, for instance, religious teachings often emphasize abstinence before marriage and fidelity within marriage as key elements of sexual morality.