Sexual stigma, sexual norms and the regulation of sexuality

Sathyasree Goswami is a development process facilitator and has been working with resource poor persons across India; she also actively works with persons from sexual minority communities especially from poor economic background in Karnataka State of South India. Further she is involved in training people on positive sexuality across different States of India. Her focus is to abolish shame and taboo around sexuality for grassroots communities and her opinion is based on everyday interaction with persons from LGBTI communities. This writing on sexual stigma, sexual norms and the regulation of sexuality is a reflection from everyday pain and struggles of people from economically backward LGBTI communities.


The issue is stigmatisation of positive sexual education causes confusion amongst young adults leading to sexual abuse and unsafe sexual behaviour. Sexual norms are defined by the society around procreation and not for pleasure, expression of ones sexuality outside the framework of heteronormativity is stigmatised, especially women.

In India cultural beliefs play a significant role in expression of ones sexuality and religion provides legitimacy. The concept of sex, and speaking about sexual act is taboo and is therefore considered sinful when spoken about. There is sufficient curiosity about physical and emotional changes amongst adolescent. However it is considered socially unacceptable to educate children and young adults on this matter. This leads to people exploring their sexuality undercover in very unsafe circumstances leading most often to irresponsible behaviour and abuse. Sexual norms are created around procreation and having sex for pleasure is unacceptable. This becomes evident from the fact that Indian do not tolerate homosexuality, bisexuality and even asexuality unless it is legitimised by religion. Women are further denied the freedom of expressing their sexuality and are considered “bad character” when a woman tries to express her sexuality even with her husband. Though there has been women loving women, but is seldom out, remaining within the four walls of homes (read joint families)

Some of the lesson learnt sexual stigma and regulation of sexuality has lead to sexual abuse amongst young adults and even older women. People explore sexuality outside heterosexuality, often leading to diseases and death. Stigma and discrimination of homosexual and bisexuals will not stop unless there are efforts towards inclusive education.

Next steps are in providing education on sexuality in schools. Further make policy makers understand the negative effects of sexual stigma and regulation of sexuality on young adults. Women’s movements have to start acting as pressure group as women are more victimised than men.