Sexual Reclamation Experiences: A Study of Ten Women Raised Catholic
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Authors
McAnesby, Judea Leigh
Issue Date
2001
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Catholic doctrine, inherently sexist and anti-sexual, is not conducive to healthy female sexual development or a positive sense of self. Church attitudes have also had a profound impact on shaping Western morality and values. The fields of sexology and psychology have inherited such patriarchal conceptions and misogynist attitudes. Female sexuality has largely been defined by men in relation to male models and is generally considered problematic or even pathological. Women's subjectivity has been absent from this discourse and the formulation of their own sexuality. This phenomenological study investigated the experiences of ten women raised Catholic who felt that the Church's teachings had a compromising impact on their sexuality and female identity. It sought to understand the process by which these co-researchers were able to reclaim sexuality as an empowering source in their lives and regain a more positive sense of self. This study confirms that women's definitions of sexuality are more encompassing than typically assumed, and for many, it includes a spiritual component. In reclaiming their sexuality, all of the co-researchers felt it necessary to revalue female aspects of themselves, including their bodies and female authority. Half of the women utilized sacred sexual practices to reconcile their spiritual and sexual aspects. Sexual reclamation also led most of these women to greater empowerment, creativity, integration, and a deeper connection to others, nature, and the divine. The finding that some of the coresearchers were not as healed as they had hoped for, speaks to the severe impact of Catholicism's messages and it's influence in American society. A better understanding of women's sexuality could advance a more comprehensive and integrated sexuality for both women and men. Clinical implications in working with women raised Catholic and others similarly affected are also considered in the study.