Moral Comparison and Sexual Self-Worth
Many people belong to religious communities that teach them specific codes of behavior related to sex and gender roles. These communities may include Christian churches, Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, Buddhist temples, Hindu ashrams, Shinto shrines, or Native American tribes. Within each community, there are different opinions about what is right and wrong regarding sexual activity.
Some Christians believe that premarital sex is sinful, while others do not. Some Muslims believe that homosexuality is unacceptable, while others accept it. In such moral comparisons, people's self-worth can be affected depending on how they feel their beliefs match up to those of their religious group.
People who have strong convictions about the morality of certain sexual practices or behaviors may feel good about themselves when they live according to those standards. They may think of themselves as righteous, virtuous, pure, or pious. On the other hand, if they find themselves unable to follow the rules of their faith, they may feel guilty, ashamed, or even inferior compared to others in their community. This can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of confidence in relationships. It can also make it harder for them to form healthy sexual partnerships with members outside their own groups.
Suppose a young woman grows up in a strict Catholic church where sex before marriage is considered a serious sin. She may feel proud of herself for staying true to her values and resisting temptation, but she might also worry about being judged by other churchgoers. She may struggle to meet men who share her views and may end up feeling lonely or frustrated. If she decides to break the rule and has sex before marriage, she may feel remorseful and regretful afterwards.
How Moral Comparison Affects Sexual Self-Worth
Moral comparison can affect sexual self-worth because it sets up a hierarchy of values and priorities. People in one community may see themselves as better than those in another because of their different moral views.
Some Muslims believe that women should be covered from head to toe in public, while others do not. Some Christians believe that masturbation is wrong, while others accept it as natural and harmless. These differences create divisions within religious communities and can lead to feelings of superiority or inferiority depending on which side you are on.
People who feel morally inferior may become anxious or depressed when around people whose beliefs differ from their own. They may avoid social situations where they could encounter someone whose behavior contradicts their own values. They may even experience physical symptoms like heart palpitations or sweating. This can limit their ability to develop meaningful relationships and explore new opportunities for intimacy.
People who feel morally superior may look down on those who disagree with them. They may judge others based on their actions and make assumptions about their character. They may think that anyone who breaks the rules is weak-willed or immoral. They may also use their superior status to manipulate or control others, making it difficult for them to form healthy connections.
Moral comparisons within religious groups can have a significant impact on sexual self-worth. People's sense of identity and belonging can be tied to their beliefs about sex and gender roles. When these beliefs clash with those of others, they may struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression. It is important for individuals to understand their own values and priorities and to find ways to connect with others who share them.
How does moral comparison within religious groups affect sexual self-worth?
The study of comparative religion has suggested that people who identify with specific religions often have varying belief systems regarding sexual morality. Moral comparison can thus result in feelings of inadequacy and reduced self-worth, especially if an individual's values do not align with those held by their peers within the same religious community.