Religious teachings about sexual desire and expression often present them as sinful, shameful, or dangerous. This view can have lasting effects on an individual's perception of their own sexuality and ability to enjoy it.
In some religions, sex is seen as a necessary part of marriage but not for fun or exploration. Sexual pleasure between spouses is expected to be reserved for procreation and is discouraged outside of this context. For those raised in these traditions, sexual pleasure may seem like a forbidden fruit, something they are not worthy enough to experience unless married. This attitude can lead to feelings of guilt, fear, and shame around sex, which can negatively impact one's confidence in expressing themselves sexually with others.
Religious beliefs that portray certain types of sex as immoral, such as premarital sex, homosexual relationships, or non-monogamous arrangements, can also create feelings of guilt and self-doubt. Those who do engage in these activities may feel guilty or ashamed, leading to a lack of trust in their sexual instincts and desires.
Some religious groups place great importance on chastity and abstinence before marriage, teaching that premarital sex is morally wrong. This can lead to sexual repression and a negative view of sex itself, making it harder to feel comfortable and confident when experiencing intimacy.
Some religions emphasize strict gender roles and expectations, limiting expressions of sexual desire outside of procreation or traditional courtship rituals. These traditions often paint men as dominant and women as submissive, reinforcing harmful power dynamics in bedrooms. Women may struggle to assert themselves sexually if they have been taught from an early age that they should only submit to male authority.
Religious teachings about erotic pleasure can influence one's sense of sexual confidence by promoting guilt, shame, and self-doubt. By perpetuating unrealistic ideals of sex and gender, religion can make it hard for individuals to fully explore their own needs and desires without fear or judgment.
There are ways to reclaim one's sexual agency and find confidence through education, therapy, and self-exploration.