Eastern and western beliefs vary considerably when it comes to views on sex. The western region is primarily comprised of individualistic culture, prioritizing their autonomy, independence, and becoming more permissive when it comes to sex. Eastern regions encompass more a collectivistic culture, having strong social and familial ties and share a collective ideal, and sex being predominantly viewed through a more traditional lens.

The United States is becoming more liberal in their views; women are now recognized as having sexuality, as during the Colonial Era they were not. Sex education is taught in school, the LGBTQIA+ is expanding, premarital sex over the past century has increased and is becoming more of a norm, as well as hookup culture that started becoming popularized by millennials. Today, it is becoming far more common and socially acceptable that people are having sex outside of a traditional relationship (Bogle 2007,2008). In other western countries, like France and Sweden, they placed lesser value on the number of sexual partners and sexual experiences (Buss, 1989). Sexual behaviors and ideas are gradually becoming more permissive, and sexuality is becoming viewed as more natural rather than taboo.

Eastern countries more generally have conservative views on sex. As women and men adopt more of a traditional role in their relationship, and it is strongly encouraged to regulate sexual behaviors or restrain from sex until marriage (Hudson et al., 1983). The moral compass differs in eastern regions, typically sex is viewed as immoral if it's for pleasure, modesty is highly encouraged, and it is more generally viewed as solely a means for reproduction with husband and wife. Eastern views generally inhabit more erotophobia than western views (Fisher et al., 1988). Sexual education is less frequent, and a very premature idea, because sexuality can be tied with shame and is more often frowned upon.

It is important to note that the generalizations between eastern and western cultures can greatly differ, as sex research is a complex and multifaceted study. Views on sexual behavior can differ from person to person depending on many things, such as religion, politics, acculturation, gender, sociocultural factors, socioeconomic factors, life experiences, and you can even bring the nature vs nurture debate into question. There are also many other cultures that do not adhere to the previously stated views and may fall outside of the generalized black and white perspective.

Do I agree with the research? I'm uncertain. I've read a few articles that say that sex studies are easily underrepresented, and it's important to recognize all of the facets that go into sexual views.

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