There has been an increased interest in religious sexual therapy as a means of addressing sexual issues among individuals who identify as being religious or spiritual. This type of therapy focuses on helping individuals to reconcile their beliefs and values with their sexual desires and behaviors, often through the lens of scripture or other religious teachings.
Critics argue that this approach can prioritize conformity over pleasure, leading to negative consequences for individuals' sexual health and wellbeing.
One way that religious sexual therapy may prioritize conformity is by promoting traditional gender roles and heteronormativity. Many religions have specific rules about how men and women should interact sexually, such as prohibiting certain types of touching or positions, and these restrictions are often upheld in religious sexual therapy. This can be particularly harmful for those who do not identify as cisgender or heterosexual, as they may feel pressured to conform to norms that do not align with their own identities.
Another way that religious sexual therapy may prioritize conformity is by emphasizing abstinence before marriage and monogamy within marriage. While some individuals may find these values valuable, others may experience difficulties adhering to them, particularly if they have different desires or values.
Someone who identifies as polyamorous may struggle to find support in religious sexual therapy if it does not recognize non-monogamous relationships.
Religious sexual therapy may prioritize obedience to religious authorities rather than individual needs. Clients may feel pressure to follow the advice of religious leaders or clergy even if it conflicts with their personal desires or preferences, potentially leading to feelings of guilt or shame if they deviate from these expectations. This can create a disconnect between an individual's spiritual beliefs and their sexual identity, making it difficult to reconcile the two aspects of their lives.
Despite its potential benefits, religious sexual therapy also has drawbacks. By prioritizing conformity over pleasure, it may fail to address underlying issues related to sexual trauma, anxiety, or dysfunction. It may also reinforce negative attitudes towards sex, such as shame or guilt, rather than promoting healthy sexual expression. In addition, religious sexual therapy may be limited in terms of techniques used for addressing sexual concerns, relying primarily on prayer or scripture rather than evidence-based practices.
While religious sexual therapy can offer important resources for those seeking to align their faith with their sexuality, critics argue that it must strike a balance between conformity and pleasure. Individuals should be able to explore their sexuality without fear of judgement or coercion, and therapists should work to meet clients where they are at, whether they identify as LGBTQ+, polyamorous, or otherwise. Only by recognizing the complexity and diversity of human sexuality can we ensure that everyone is able to experience fulfilling and pleasurable relationships.
In what ways does religious sexual therapy prioritize conformity over pleasure?
Religious sexual therapy emphasizes abstinence and chastity before marriage as well as fidelity within it, which can lead to feelings of shame and guilt about sexual desires and experiences. The focus on controlling one's sexual urges rather than enjoying them can also create feelings of guilt and fear around sexual pleasure, leading some individuals to repress their needs and avoid intimacy altogether.