Religious indoctrination refers to the process of teaching someone about a religion from an early age. This can include attending church services, reading scriptures, and participating in religious rituals. While some argue that religious beliefs are innate, there is evidence that exposure to religious teachings during childhood can shape one's sexual attitudes and practices as an adult.
Sexual attitudes refer to a person's values, beliefs, and opinions regarding sexual behavior. These attitudes can range from being extremely conservative to being more liberal.
Some people may believe that all forms of sexual activity outside of marriage are sinful, while others may see nothing wrong with premarital sex or same-sex relationships. Sexual practices refer to the actual behaviors related to sex, such as engaging in intercourse, masturbation, or watching pornography. Someone who has been raised in a strictly religious environment may be more likely to adhere to certain sexual norms, whereas someone with less exposure to religion may have different attitudes and practices.
Research suggests that children who grow up in highly religious families tend to have more traditional views on gender roles and sexuality. This can manifest in a variety of ways, such as believing that women should submit to their husbands or that homosexuality is a sin.
These individuals may have greater levels of guilt or shame associated with sexual behavior. This can lead them to engage in fewer sexual activities or feel guilty afterward.
Those without strong religious upbringing may be more open to exploring different types of sexual experiences. They may be more willing to try new things, explore different partners, or even experiment with BDSM.
This does not mean that they lack morals or ethics when it comes to sex. In fact, research suggests that people who do not have strict religious beliefs often hold similar moral standards to those who do.
Whether or not religious indoctrination shapes adult sexual attitudes and practices depends on the individual. While some people may conform to the expectations set by their parents or community, others may reject these teachings and develop their own beliefs about sex. Regardless of where one falls on the spectrum, it is important to remember that everyone's experience with sex is unique and personal.
To what extent does religious indoctrination in childhood shape adult sexual attitudes and practices?
A study done by Leah Windsor et al (2018) found that people who were raised in a religion that had strict rules regarding sex and reproduction tend to have more negative views on non-procreative sex, such as premarital sex or same-sex relationships. Additionally, they also reported higher levels of anxiety and lower self-esteem about their sexuality than those raised in religions with less stringent guidelines.