How social scripts and peer culture influence young people's understanding of what is normal when it comes to sex, sexuality, intimacy, and romantic relationships?
As humans, we all have certain cultural beliefs about what is considered "normal" behavior. These are often transmitted through social scripts, which are unspoken rules that guide our interactions with others.
If someone says something like "good morning," you know they are greeting you. If someone says something like "thank you," you know they appreciate your help. Social scripts also include expectations around gender roles and relational norms. In this article, I will discuss how these scripts and peer culture can affect youth in terms of their perception of what is acceptable in matters related to sex, sexuality, intimacy, and romance.
One way social scripts reinforce sexual norms among youth is through media representations. Young people may see images or stories that portray sex as always being pleasurable for both parties involved. They may be exposed to depictions of romantic relationships where one partner has more power than the other, such as the man controlling the relationship or making most decisions. These ideas shape young people's views of what is expected from them and their partners during sexual encounters.
Popular songs may glorify hookups and casual sex without any mention of contraceptive use or STD prevention. This sends a message that these behaviors are normal and even desirable, leading many young people to engage in risky sexual activity without thinking about consequences.
Another way social scripts influence youth is through school-based programs on sex education. Often, these programs emphasize abstinence until marriage but do not provide comprehensive information about safe sex practices. This leads some students to believe that having sex before marriage is wrong, while others may feel pressured into early sexual exploration because it seems like everyone else is doing it. Some schools teach that only certain types of relationships are legitimate - monogamous, heterosexual, cisgendered couples - which can lead LGBTQ+ youth to feel isolated or ashamed. Teachers should strive to create an inclusive environment where all students feel comfortable asking questions and learning about different types of love and relationships.
Peer culture also plays a significant role in shaping young people's understanding of sexual norms.
If someone shares an intimate story with friends, they may expect those around them to react with shock or horror, encouraging them to keep quiet about similar experiences in the future. This reinforces shame around sex and limits open communication about important topics. If a young person sees other kids engaging in sexual behavior at a party or online, they may feel pressure to follow suit, even if they are uncomfortable.
Peer groups often have specific expectations for dating or hookup etiquette, such as when to text back, how long to wait between messages, and what behaviors are acceptable during dates. These norms can make it difficult for youth to express their true desires and needs in relationships.
Social scripts and peer culture influence youth in profound ways regarding their perception of appropriate sexual behavior. We need to work together to create more positive and inclusive environments that encourage young people to ask questions, explore their identities, and make informed decisions about their relationships. By providing comprehensive education and creating safe spaces for dialogue, we can help young people navigate these complex issues with confidence and self-awareness.
How do social scripts and peer culture reinforce sexual norms, gender roles, and relational expectations among youth?
Social scripts refer to the socially accepted rules of behavior that people learn from their interactions with others. These scripts can vary by context and culture but generally include how individuals should act when it comes to sex, dating, and relationships. Peer culture refers to the group norms that are established within a particular social circle and may reflect broader cultural values regarding these topics. Youth are especially influenced by both social scripts and peer culture because they are still learning about themselves and their place in society.