Religions teach people that they are either good or bad based on their actions, and one of those actions is having sex outside of marriage. Some religions believe that all sex outside of marriage is wrong, while others allow it but only within certain circumstances such as when both parties are married or if there is consent from both partners. This idea can be seen in many different texts throughout history, including the Bible where adultery was considered an unforgivable sin punishable by death. It has also been used to control women's bodies and reproductive rights for centuries, often leading to forced marriages and violence against them if they do not comply with male expectations about sexual behavior. These teachings have shaped how people view themselves spiritually, making them feel guilty or ashamed if they engage in activities deemed "immoral" even though it may bring them pleasure or fulfillment.
Some Christians believe that premarital sex is unacceptable because God created humanity as virgins who will remain pure until marriage. This creates an idea that sex before marriage makes someone impure or dirty, which influences personal worth negatively since purity is seen as something desirable. In addition, religious institutions often shame members for engaging in non-traditional forms of intimacy such as homosexuality or polyamory, further diminishing self-esteem due to being labeled as abnormal or deviant.
Other belief systems like Buddhism view sexual activity positively since it brings two people together emotionally and physically, helping them find balance and harmony between body and mind.
Religious teachings on sexuality have had a profound effect on society, influencing attitudes towards gender roles, relationships, and individual well-being. They continue to shape our perceptions today through media portrayals and political discussions about morality, especially when it comes to abortion access and same-sex marriage legislation. Though these ideas are changing over time, the stigma around certain behaviors still exists among many communities worldwide, impacting both individuals' emotional health and social status within their communities.