The trending conversation used to be about sexual freedom. Getting away from the social norm of purity and freely having sex outside of relationships. But now, the 21st century has brought new social norms and conversations to the table. Now waiting until marriage or being a virgin is surrounded by judgment and ridicule, so much so that many young people have been bullied into losing their virginity.

Your adolescence is a time of wanting to find yourself, while not always being confident enough to stand out from the crowd. Peers, media, and social norms can pressure individuals into conforming to what is popular or trending at a given time. Through conversations, I’ve noticed a similar narrative from women in particular, facing the difficult decision of whether to hold onto their values and beliefs or go with the rest of society. Many have felt so alone in their decision that they have given up their ideas to fit into societal norms and have consequently lost themselves along the way.

Starting in high school and now continuing into college, hook-up culture has been a prominent driving force in our society. It has affected our decision-making and the way we live our lives. From a young age, we have been immersed in a culture obsessed with sex. The idea of hook-up culture has put many people in uncomfortable situations where they are pressured into doing things they aren’t ready for. It penalizes individuals who choose to wait, and it hinders committed relationships through the glorification of one-night stands.

This environment can create challenges for those who prioritize deeper connections and emotional intimacy. It makes it more difficult to find partners who share the same values and relationship goals. Those who choose to wait are often penalized by being subjected to social norms and pressures. Because of this, individuals make rushed decisions in which they are not ready for the consequences.

Having sex before a person’s ready can take an emotional toll on their mental health. Regret and guilt can form when the experience is influenced by external pressures rather than a personal choice. Some people also form emotional attachments after having sex, which when repeated with multiple individuals, can lead to trust issues and communication problems that can carry into future relationships.

Maintaining control over your own sexual decisions and taking the time to understand your boundaries can lead to healthier relationships and decision-making. You become more aware of what you truly want and need from a partner. By avoiding the pressures from society, you ensure that your decision is truly your decision and that it’s being made based on your desires and readiness. Having control over your sexual decisions can empower you to take charge of your life and your choices.

It’s crucial to recognize that personal values, beliefs, and individual circumstances vary immensely. The decision to wait or not is deeply personal and it’s important to respect the choices of others. To create a supportive environment for varying opinions we need open, non-judgmental discussions that can lead to informed and healthy decision-making for everyone.