The concept of adulthood is often associated with maturity, independence, and self-reliance.
It is also linked to religion, which can influence an individual's views and attitudes towards sexual responsibility. Religious teachings have played a significant role in shaping society's perception of what constitutes appropriate sexual behavior and have been used to justify various norms and laws surrounding sex. This paper will explore how religious framing of adulthood redefines sexual responsibility.
One way that religion influences sexual responsibility is through marriage. Many religions view marriage as a sacred institution between a man and woman for life and believe that sexual relations should be reserved exclusively for married couples. This belief has led to the criminalization of premarital sex and extramarital affairs in many societies around the world.
In some countries, unmarried individuals who engage in consensual sexual intercourse are subjected to severe punishments such as imprisonment or flogging. In addition, marriage often serves as a social contract that regulates sexual activity outside of marriage, including promiscuity and prostitution.
Another way that religion impacts sexual responsibility is by defining purity and sin. Many religious texts prohibit specific sexual acts, such as homosexuality, bestiality, incest, and rape. These definitions are often based on moral values rather than medical or psychological evidence. Accordingly, people may feel guilty or ashamed if they engage in activities deemed taboo by their faith. They may also use their religion to excuse themselves from taking responsibility for their actions.
Religion also shapes sexual responsibility through its teachings about gender roles and expectations. Women are often expected to be submissive to men and obedient to their husbands. Men, on the other hand, are responsible for providing financial support for their families and protecting them from harm. Religious teachings can justify domestic violence and marital rape. Some cultures have even gone so far as to promote arranged marriages, where children are forced into marriages with strangers without any say in the matter. In these cases, the victimized partner may not know how to assert their autonomy or take charge of their own sexual pleasure.
Religion's influence extends beyond marriage and family life. It has been used to oppress non-heteronormative sexual orientations and identities throughout history. People who identify as LGBTQ+ face discrimination, prejudice, and violence because of their beliefs. Religious institutions reinforce heteronormativity, which is the expectation that everyone should be attracted to members of the opposite sex and conform to traditional gender roles. This attitude has created a hostile environment for many individuals who do not fit these norms.
Religion plays a significant role in shaping society's views on sexual responsibility. Its teachings have justified various laws, behaviors, and social norms around sexual activity.
They also create barriers to individual freedom and self-determination. Individuals must critically examine religious teachings and challenge cultural norms if they wish to take full control over their sexuality and relationships.