Sexual values are beliefs about what behaviors are appropriate or desirable for men and women regarding romance, love, sex, gender roles, family life, marriage, and childbearing. These values may be influenced by cultural, social, religious, educational, familial, and personal factors. In this article, we will explore how parents transmit their sexual values to children and how these values may change during adulthood. We will examine three common themes of sexual values - monogamy, faithfulness, and openness - and discuss how they can persist or change depending on several variables.
Monogamy refers to having a committed relationship with one person where both partners are exclusive to each other. Parents who value monogamy typically encourage their children to practice it as well, but many young adults may reject this value and experiment with casual dating or polyamory. This is especially true if they have had negative experiences with monogamy or feel pressure from society to conform to traditional norms.
Some parents may reinforce monogamy through modeling their own behavior or encouraging monogamy in public spaces like schools or churches. Children who see their parents practicing monogamy are more likely to adopt this value themselves, even if they do not agree with it initially.
Faithfulness involves being loyal and trustworthy in a relationship, avoiding extramarital affairs and infidelity. Parents who prioritize faithfulness may teach their children to avoid cheating and to stay true to their partner, but this may not always resonate with young adults who prioritize individual freedom and autonomy. Some young people may engage in casual sex without guilt or remorse, while others may struggle with jealousy or anxiety about their partner's fidelity. It is important for parents to communicate honestly about their expectations regarding faithfulness and to create an environment where their children feel safe sharing their feelings and desires.
Openness involves allowing oneself to be vulnerable and explore different aspects of sexuality, including same-sex relationships, kinks, and fetishes. Parents who promote openness may allow their children to discuss these topics freely and embrace them as valid expressions of identity. They may also emphasize the importance of consent and respect for all partners. Openness can be challenging for those who grew up in conservative communities or families that suppressed their sexuality, but it can lead to deeper connections and more fulfilling intimacy.
Parental transmission of sexual values is complex and multifaceted. These values may persist or change based on individual experiences, cultural norms, and personal growth. By understanding how our beliefs are formed, we can work towards healthier relationships and greater self-awareness.
What predicts whether sexual values transmitted by parents persist or change during adulthood?
According to research, there are several factors that can affect whether sexual values transmitted by parents persist or change during adulthood. One factor is an individual's age. Younger adults tend to have more flexible attitudes towards sexual values than older adults, and may be more likely to adopt new values from their peers or experiences. Another factor is cultural context.