Sexual norms are social rules that govern how people should behave when it comes to sex, dating, love, marriage, parenting, and gender roles. They can be explicit laws set down by authorities like courts or government bodies, or implicit societal guidelines based on culture, religion, tradition, class, race, ethnicity, age, geography, etc. Sexual norms vary from place to place and time to time; they also differ according to personal experiences, belief systems, values, and lifestyles. Taboos are cultural prohibitions against certain actions, often associated with supernatural punishment. Cultural rituals are formalized traditions designed to celebrate and pass on values and knowledge to future generations.
What do cultural taboos tell us about human sexuality?
Cultural taboos can be found in every society around the world. Many are related to food, drink, clothing, hygiene, speech, body parts, relationships, and sex. In some cultures, for example, there are strict regulations regarding what is acceptable behavior between men and women, who may not talk to each other except under very specific circumstances. Such taboos affect sexual norms by limiting the kinds of interactions that people have.
In a culture where arranged marriages are common, unmarried young adults might spend little time alone together before marrying, so their idea of romance would be different than someone raised in a free-love society. Also, many religions prohibit same-sex couples from marrying or even interacting intimately, which can lead to shame and repression of natural desires.
How do religious practices shape sexual expectations?
Religion plays an important role in shaping sexual expectations because it prescribes how people should behave in relation to God, other humans, and nature. Some faiths believe that only married partners should engage in physical intimacy; others say it's okay only within marriage but only after marriage has been consummated. Many religions encourage monogamy and fidelity as virtues, while others allow multiple spouses (polyamory). Some view gender roles more traditionalistically, with men being breadwinners and women taking care of children, cooking, and cleaning; others see women as equals capable of working outside the home. In some religions, premarital sex is considered sinful; in others, it's expected. Religion often shapes sexual norms by teaching people what's right and wrong, rewarding moral behavior, and punishing transgressions.
What cultural rituals teach us about relationships?
Cultural rituals help pass down values and knowledge from one generation to another. Wedding ceremonies, for example, celebrate love, commitment, and family ties. In some cultures, they are elaborate, multi-day affairs where families come together to witness the union of two souls. Other cultures have fewer rules regarding courtship and dating, so young adults may spend more time alone before marrying. In certain tribal communities, arranged marriages are common and parents make all the decisions. All these factors influence sexual norms by defining appropriate actions and attitudes between partners.
If a person grows up believing that men take charge in relationships, they might struggle to relate to an independent woman who wants equality or even dominance.
How do historical events affect our ideas about intimacy?
History also plays a role in shaping sexual norms. The rise and fall of empires, wars, revolutions, migrations, technological advances, economic crises, and other major events can reshape social structures and change how people view themselves and others.
The Industrial Revolution brought new ways of making money, which led to changes in gender roles as women entered the workforce en masse. This led to new expectations around housework, childrearing, and romantic compatibility based on shared interests rather than traditional gender roles. Similarly, colonialism and globalization changed views of race, religion, culture, identity, and power dynamics; many people now value diversity over homogeneity in personal relationships.
How do cultural rituals and taboos influence sexual norms, preferences, and relational expectations?
Cultural rituals and taboos can have significant impact on sexual norms, preferences, and relational expectations as they shape individuals' values, beliefs, and attitudes towards sex and intimacy. Cultural practices such as arranged marriages, purity tests, and polygamy may foster specific views about gender roles and relationships that guide individuals' behavior and choices in matters of love and romance.