The developmental context of sexuality has become an increasingly significant concern for scholars. According to research, early experiences have been found to play a vital role in shaping individual's attitudes toward sexual behaviors. Sexual attitudes are often defined as beliefs, values, feelings, and opinions that guide behavior related to sexuality. Several studies reveal that exposure to sexually aggressive peers can influence one's attitude toward sexual behaviors, including empathy, moral judgment, and relational behavior. The present review will explore how exposure to sexually aggressive peers influences these aspects among adolescents.
Empathy is the ability to understand another person's point of view, emotions, and perspective. It involves putting oneself in the other person's shoes to comprehend their experience and feelings. Studies suggest that peer relationships during adolescence significantly contribute to the development of empathy. Adolescents who interact with sexually aggressive peers may be exposed to risky or problematic behaviors such as drug abuse, violence, and promiscuous activities. As a result, they may develop a lack of empathy towards others, which may lead them to engage in similar behaviors or treat people without regard for their feelings. This negative impact on empathy can affect interpersonal interactions and personal relationships, causing social withdrawal, isolation, and loneliness. In addition, it may also contribute to criminal activity, bullying, and other anti-social behaviors.
Moral Judgment
Moral judgment refers to an individual's capacity to evaluate the morality of actions and decisions based on societal norms and standards. Exposure to sexually aggressive peers can shape moral judgments by shifting adolescent's perspectives on what is acceptable or appropriate sexual behavior.
If an adolescent is repeatedly exposed to casual sexual encounters, they may begin to normalize such behaviors and perceive them as acceptable in society. Consequently, they may develop skewed moral beliefs about sexuality, leading to unhealthy attitudes toward sexual relationships, including promiscuity, infidelity, rape, and sexual harassment. Moral judgment can influence relational behavior, including dating, intimacy, and marriage, and consequently impact the quality of life. Therefore, exposure to sexually aggressive peers can negatively influence moral judgment and lead to destructive sexual behavior.
Relational Behavior
Relational behavior encompasses all aspects of emotional connection between individuals, from romantic partnerships to friendships. Studies indicate that peer group influences play a crucial role in shaping relational behavior during adolescence. Adolescents who interact with sexually aggressive peers are more likely to engage in risky sexual activities, which can lead to unwanted pregnancies, STDs, and other health issues. These experiences can also affect mental health, resulting in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and trauma. In addition, they may lead to social withdrawal and isolation, further impacting relationships with others.
The present review demonstrates how exposure to sexually aggressive peers can influence empathy, moral judgment, and relational behavior among adolescents. Adolescent development is a critical period for shaping sexual attitudes, and early exposure to such behaviors can have long-term consequences. It is essential to promote positive sexual education and provide support systems for teenagers to develop healthy sexual attitudes and behaviors. This approach would help them navigate the challenges of adolescence and establish healthy relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and love.
How does exposure to sexually aggressive peers influence empathy, moral judgment, and relational behavior in adolescents?
The research on how exposure to sexually aggressive peers influences empathy, moral judgment, and relational behavior in adolescence is still developing. Researchers have observed that exposure to sexualized media, such as pornography, may make some teenagers more prone to engage in risky behaviors and adopt problematic attitudes towards gender roles (e. g. , see Pardun et al. , 2015).