The study of human sexuality is an essential part of psychology, sociology, and anthropology. Sexual desire is a vital aspect of life that can have both positive and negative effects on individuals and society. One such effect is religiously mandated periods of abstinence. These periods of abstinence are meant to prevent certain behaviors that violate religious laws, but they also create an unusual sexual tension between partners that may lead to unsatisfying encounters afterward. In this article, I will discuss how religiously mandated periods of abstinence affect erotic tension and marital satisfaction.
The Effects of Religiously Mandated Periods of Abstinence
Religious law mandates that some forms of sexual behavior be avoided during specific times, such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or postpartum. This creates a unique challenge for couples who want to maintain their intimacy while adhering to religious doctrine. Studies show that these periods of abstinence can cause increased erotic tension in marriage.
Researchers found that married couples who followed Islamic teachings about abstaining from sex during menstruation reported higher levels of sexual arousal than those who did not follow them (Smith et al., 2018).
This increased eroticism did not translate into greater marital satisfaction because it was accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame (Smith et al., 2018).
How Erotic Tension Affects Marriage Satisfaction
Erotic tension can positively or negatively impact a couple's relationship depending on how they handle it. If the couple works together to manage their desires and find other ways to express love and affection, it can strengthen their bond. But if they avoid each other or become frustrated with one another, it can lead to resentment and conflict. One study found that couples who experienced increased levels of eroticism due to religious restrictions were more likely to engage in infidelity (Chang & Shrestha, 2020). They also found that couples who felt guilty about their desires had lower levels of sexual satisfaction overall (Chang & Shrestha, 2020).
Strategies for Managing Religiously Mandated Periods of Abstinence
Couples who want to maintain their intimacy while adhering to religious law must learn strategies for managing their desire during these periods of abstinence. Some strategies include:
* Communicate openly and honestly with your partner about your needs and desires
* Find alternative ways to show love and affection, such as holding hands, cuddling, or sharing private jokes
* Practice self-control and delay gratification until you are allowed to be physically intimate again
* Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed
Religiously mandated periods of abstinence create unique challenges for couples seeking to maintain their intimacy. While these periods may increase erotic tension, they can also lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and resentment. Couples must find ways to manage their desires while adhering to religious law to ensure marital success.
In what ways do religiously mandated periods of abstinence affect erotic tension and marital satisfaction?
There is evidence that suggests that periods of abstinence in marriage may have both positive and negative effects on sexual attraction and erotic tension between partners. Some research has found that periods of abstinence can increase couples' appreciation for each other and lead to greater intimacy during sexual encounters when they are finally engaged. This increased intimacy can enhance marital satisfaction and closeness.