Many people around the world live in societies where social norms dictate certain behaviors, beliefs, values, and attitudes. These cultural norms can be influenced by religion, politics, history, tradition, education, media, etc., and they have an impact on how individuals perceive themselves and behave within their community. In this essay, I will examine how living in a culturally conservative society shaped my self-perception and behavior regarding sex, sexuality, eroticism, intimacy, and relationships.
As a person who grew up in such a society, I can say that it was difficult to navigate these aspects of life without feeling like an outcast. The pressure to conform to traditional expectations could make one feel isolated, ashamed, and guilty for wanting something different from what is considered normal.
When I discovered my interest in exploring my body and others' bodies through masturbation and sex, I had to hide it from everyone, including myself. I felt guilty about having desires outside of marriage or even outside of heteronormativity. Moreover, my culture did not encourage open communication about these things; I learned early on that speaking about them was taboo. Therefore, I often suppressed my thoughts and feelings and pretended everything was fine.
As time went on, I began to question whether following these societal norms aligned with my true identity. I realized that my perception of my own sexuality and relationships was being distorted by external forces. I started to challenge my views and explore the world around me, seeking out alternative perspectives that contradicted what I had been taught. This process allowed me to understand that my culture's ideals were not universal but rather reflect only one point of view among many. It also gave me more confidence to express myself freely and be comfortable in my skin.
Living in a conservative society has its advantages too. It helps maintain social cohesion and prevents cultural disintegration. In my case, there are certain behaviors that have become second nature because they have always been part of my environment.
I am used to dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and respecting elders. These values instilled in me during childhood serve as reminders that living responsibly includes considering others' opinions and taking care of family members.
While living in a culturally conservative society has shaped my self-perception and behavior regarding sex, sexuality, eroticism, intimacy, and relationships, it is possible to overcome this influence through self-reflection, education, and exposure to other ideas. By embracing different perspectives, we can create our identities based on our authentic selves and connect with others in meaningful ways.
How does living in a culturally conservative society shape your self-perception and behavior?
Living in a culturally conservative society can have significant impact on an individual's self-perception and behavior. The cultural norms and values that are prevalent in such societies often dictate how people perceive themselves and their place in the world around them. In these societies, individuals may be expected to conform to certain gender roles, religious beliefs, and social customs, which can limit their ability to express themselves freely and creatively.