Religion plays an important role in shaping societal norms that guide people's behavior and belief systems. Religions can influence attitudes towards various topics, including romantic relationships, marriage, family life, and sexual practices. In Indonesia, Islam is the dominant religion, with around 88% of the population identifying as Muslim. This means that Islamic teachings have a significant impact on how individuals approach their personal lives, particularly when it comes to matters related to sex, sexuality, and relationships.
One area where religious norms play a crucial role in Indonesian society is cohabitation. Cohabitation refers to living together outside of marriage, either before or instead of getting married. This practice has become increasingly common in recent years, but it remains controversial in many parts of Indonesia due to social and cultural taboos surrounding premarital sex. While some couples choose to live together without getting married for practical reasons, others do so because they believe it is a more natural way of expressing love and intimacy than marriage. Regardless of their motivations, however, these individuals must navigate a complex web of religious and societal expectations regarding premarital sex and cohabitation.
Sexual autonomy is another aspect of Indonesian society influenced by religious norms. Many Indonesians view sexual activity as a private matter between consenting adults, and there are few legal restrictions on sexual behavior.
This does not mean that all Indonesians are free to engage in any kind of sexual activity they choose.
Same-sex relationships are still widely considered immoral in Indonesia, even though homosexuality is not illegal. This creates a tension between individual rights and societal expectations, which can be difficult for couples to negotiate.
In addition to sexual autonomy, religious norms also influence relational negotiation among couples. Negotiation refers to the process through which partners discuss and decide upon important issues in their relationship, such as finances, children, and household responsibilities. These decisions may involve compromise, but they should ultimately reflect each partner's values and beliefs. In Indonesia, where religion plays an important role in everyday life, negotiating these issues can be especially challenging. Partners may find themselves having to reconcile conflicting ideas about how best to raise children or manage money, for instance.
Religious norms play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards relationships, sex, and sexuality in Indonesian society. While some people may find these norms restrictive or outdated, others see them as essential to maintaining social order and preserving traditional values. As globalization continues to impact Indonesia, however, it remains to be seen whether these norms will evolve or remain static.
How do Indonesian religious norms shape cohabitation, sexual autonomy, and relational negotiation among couples?
According to a recent study on the topic of love and marriage conducted by Suharto et al (2019), it was found that Indonesian society is influenced heavily by traditional values and norms when it comes to romantic relationships and partnerships. This includes the importance placed on religion and the role of family in the relationship building process.