Background Information: Sexual Norms and Deviations
Social norms are rules that define what is considered acceptable behavior in a given society. They dictate how people act, dress, communicate, and interact with each other. Sexual norms refer to the socially accepted behaviors related to gender roles, physical interactions between individuals, sexual identity, orientation, practices, and expression. During childhood and adolescence, young people learn these norms from their parents, teachers, peers, and media.
As they grow older and become more independent, they may question or challenge them, leading to deviations such as experimentation, curiosity, or nonconformity. Social networks and friends can play a crucial role in internalizing these norms and deviations during youth.
The Role of Parents
Parents have an essential influence on their children's attitudes towards sex and relationships. They teach them about appropriate and respectful conduct, body language, boundaries, and consent.
They may discuss topics like puberty, menstruation, hygiene, pregnancy, contraception, and STD prevention. They also provide emotional support and guidance while navigating romantic relationships. Children who lack parental supervision and guidance may be more prone to risky behaviors and peer pressure. On the other hand, overbearing or conservative parents may stifle their children's exploration and discovery of their sexuality, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, or isolation.
Peer Influences
Peers are significant influencers on teenage behavior and thought patterns. They provide validation, acceptance, and socialization through shared experiences and interests.
This can lead to pressures for conformity and competition, with peer groups setting standards and expectations that push individuals to act out or engage in risky activities. This can include sexting, nudity, hook-ups, and drug use.
Social media platforms encourage group dynamics and comparison, which can intensify these pressures. Consequently, young people may feel compelled to fit in and demonstrate their desirability or status.
Media Messages
Media messages such as television shows, movies, music videos, magazines, and advertisements promote specific ideals of beauty, body image, gender roles, and sexual behavior. They can glorify promiscuous behavior, objectification, violence, or unhealthy relationships. Exposure to media content during adolescence has been linked to earlier sexual initiation, increased risk-taking, and negative attitudes towards sex. It also shapes perceptions about what is 'normal,' encouraging young people to seek out partners who resemble celebrities or characters they see on screens.
Mental Health Factors
Personal factors like mental health issues, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or family dysfunction may influence how an individual internalizes societal norms and deviations.
Those struggling with low self-esteem may engage in risky behaviors to gain attention or validation. Those dealing with emotional instability may have difficulty navigating intimate relationships or expressing themselves openly. This can lead to confusion, shame, regret, or guilt, impacting their physical and psychological well-being.
Balancing Norms and Deviations
Social networks and friends play a complex role in shaping youth's sexual norms and deviations. While peer pressure and media can encourage nonconformity, parental guidance and support are essential for establishing healthy boundaries and attitudes towards sex and relationships. Self-acceptance, communication skills, and positive messaging help balance these influences while minimizing harmful effects.
Individuals should feel empowered to explore their identity and desires safely, without fear of judgment or stigma.
How do social networks and friends contribute to the internalization of sexual norms and deviations during youth?
"Social media and friend groups have been shown to play an important role in shaping one's beliefs about what is considered normal when it comes to sexual attitudes and behaviors. A recent study found that individuals who are exposed to more liberal messages regarding sexuality on their preferred platforms were more likely to exhibit greater tolerance towards different forms of sex.