Sexual education has always been an integral part of human life, whether it is for reproduction or pleasure. It plays a vital role in shaping one's thoughts about sex and affects their behavior towards it. Sexual education can be obtained from different sources like parents, friends, siblings, teachers, media, etc., but religion holds a special place because it deals with spirituality that guides people throughout their lives. Therefore, religious sexual education also influences families significantly, which can either create shame or openness in them.
Shame is usually linked to socially conservative religions, where sex outside marriage is considered immoral and impure. In such cases, children are taught to see sex as something sinful and should avoid it until they get married. As a result, it creates a sense of shame among young individuals when they experience sexual urges; they feel guilty and ashamed because their body reacts naturally. They might even confess their sins to priests or bishops and go through severe punishment. These beliefs lead to secrecy, which becomes detrimental to one's mental health, making them fear their own bodies and desires.
Some liberal religions promote free will and self-expression; hence they consider sex as a natural phenomenon and advocate its practice before marriage too. Such teachings make sex less taboo and allow individuals to embrace themselves without any fear or hesitation. The family members become more open to discussing intimate matters and learn about their partner's needs and desires to fulfill them better. They become less secretive and share their feelings more freely. This approach makes them more comfortable with sex, reducing the chances of guilt and shame.
Religious sexual education plays a vital role in shaping society's perception towards sex, affecting families' views on intimacy. If parents have a positive outlook towards it, they can help their kids understand it better and reduce the stigma around it. But if they have a negative outlook, it creates a sense of shame that impacts their behavior towards sex throughout life.
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