Psychologists have begun to study how different religious beliefs and practices affect an individual's feelings about sexual behavior. Participation in religious confession or penance can be especially influential in this regard. These rituals involve publicly acknowledging one's sins or misdeeds, asking for forgiveness, and receiving absolution from a priest or minister. This process often involves admitting wrongdoing, expressing remorse, and seeking forgiveness, which may lead to increased feelings of guilt and anxiety around sexual behavior.
One reason why participation in religious confession or penance might increase sexual guilt is because it highlights the consequences of transgressions. By bringing up past indiscretions, these rituals draw attention to the potential negative effects of certain behaviors, such as disease transmission, pregnancy risk, or social stigma.
The act of confessing oneself creates a heightened sense of accountability, since the individual must take responsibility for their actions. As a result, they may feel more guilty about their behavior and less comfortable engaging in similar activities in the future.
Religious confessions and penances may also impact moral reasoning. Many religions emphasize the importance of self-control and abstinence, particularly regarding sexual activity outside of marriage. By taking part in these rites, individuals are reminded that they should adhere to specific codes of conduct and avoid temptations. This can lead to increased cognitive dissonance when they face situations where they desire to engage in risky or illicit sex, resulting in further anxiety and guilt.
Participation in religious confession or penance does not always have negative effects on sexual guilt, anxiety, or morality. For some people, these rituals provide a sense of comfort and reassurance, allowing them to work through their feelings and find closure. They may also offer opportunities for repentance and forgiveness, helping individuals move forward from past mistakes and make positive changes in their lives. Further research is needed to better understand how religion shapes attitudes towards sex and relationships.
How does participation in religious confessions or penance influence sexual guilt, moral reasoning, and anxiety?
Religion plays a significant role in the socialization of individuals into particular attitudes and behaviors related to sex, morality, and religion itself. Studies have shown that people who regularly attend church are more likely to believe in traditional gender roles, hold conservative views on abortion and homosexuality, and report higher levels of religiosity than those who do not (Ross & Ketcham 1992).