Let’s NOT Talk About Sex …or Shall We?

Cultural Conditioning: Sex, Pleasure and Shame

Sexuality is a taboo and often considered as shameful in western culture. Young children are often shamed by their parents for pursuing bodily pleasures. Such shaming is based on cultural values and teaches children which desires are acceptable and which are unacceptable/shameful and need to be oppressed. I believe that the taboo around discussing sexuality reflects the collective shame we associate with sexuality in western culture.

More Than Biology

The taboo prevents us from talking openly talking about sexuality. Historically, sexuality in therapy was rarely discussed and this trend persists until today. Understandably, clients may hesitate to discuss sexual concerns, because they fear that a counselor might judge them or feel uncomfortable about the topic. What further complexifies the issue is that sexuality, has been pathologized throughout history and across disciplines, including in therapy. I believe that the medicalization of sexuality does a huge disservice to individuals who experience sexuality-related concerns. Sexuality-related challenges are rarely the result of only biological factors and research shows that a myriad of cultural and relational factors is important to sexual arousal, desire, and fulfillment.

It’s about time we talk about it!

Therapy can provide safe and non-pathologizing opportunities for individuals of all genders to confidentially discuss sexuality-related concerns. Contact us to learn more.