Romanians are known for their strong adherence to traditional values when it comes to sexuality and marriage. This can be seen in the high percentage of people who marry before having sexual relations, which stands at 91% according to recent studies.
Romania has one of the lowest rates of teenage pregnancy in Europe.
These statistics do not mean that there is no room for nonconformist views and behaviors, especially among young adults.
I will explore how religious norms play into the expectations of both genders regarding premarital sex, and how they shape relational intimacy after marriage.
According to Romanian beliefs, sex outside of marriage is forbidden by God and should only happen within a monogamous relationship between married partners. This belief is deeply rooted in Christian teachings, which form an integral part of the country's culture. The Orthodox church strongly condemns any deviation from this principle, even though some priests may adopt more liberal positions on certain issues.
Father Dumitru Radu Staniloae, one of the most influential theologians of the last century, wrote about "the need for conjugal love" without judging or condemning those who engage in premarital sex as long as they show remorse afterwards.
For men, being sexually active with multiple partners is seen as normal behavior before marriage. In fact, it is encouraged in order to gain experience and prove one's masculinity. On the other hand, women are expected to preserve their virginity until marriage and remain faithful once they enter into a relationship.
This double standard can lead to frustration and resentment if the man is unable to satisfy his partner emotionally or physically after the wedding.
Religious values also shape the way people perceive and express eroticism in relationships.
Touching each other above the waist in public is considered vulgar, while kissing and hugging is accepted in certain settings. Intimate gestures like holding hands or stroking someone's back are allowed but not common among couples. Moreover, sexual acts such as oral sex and anal intercourse are often stigmatized.
Romanian religious norms influence both genders differently when it comes to premarital sex and relational intimacy. While men are expected to be promiscuous before marriage, women are discouraged from exploring their sexuality outside of the marital bed. This dual approach creates tension between spouses, as some may feel that their needs are unfulfilled or ignored by their partner.
What is the interplay between Romanian religious norms on premarital sex and gendered expectations of erotic behavior and relational intimacy?
There are several cultural traditions that influence sexuality and relationships in Romania. The traditional view of marriage as an institution for procreation is influenced by the dominant religion, Orthodox Christianity, which teaches against premarital sex and extramarital affairs. This has led to a culture where men and women have different expectations of sexual conduct before marriage.