TABOOS AND MYTHS: UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACTS ON HUMAN SEXUALITY

Abstract

The study of human sexuality is essential to understanding the biopsychosocial behavior and well-being of individuals. However, sexuality still faces significant barriers due to myths, taboos, and prejudices, often shaped by power discourses from institutions such as the Church, the State, Medicine, and the Family. This work aims to explore how these beliefs affect the formation of sexual identities and well-being. It is a literature review with a qualitative approach and critical analysis. Sources include Google Scholar, SCIELO, PEPSIC, LILACS, the Brazilian Journal of Human Sexuality, the Interface Journal, and other electronic journals and physical books in Portuguese and foreign languages, covering publications from 2008 to 2023. The descriptors used were: “Human sexuality,” “Sexual myths,” “Construction of sexuality,” “Taboos about sexuality,” and “Sexual education.” The analysis reveals that silence, censorship, and misinformation perpetuate prejudices and stigmas that negatively impact individuals' sexual health and psychosocial development. Sexual education is emphasized as a crucial practice to reduce prejudice, provide proper guidance, and promote respect and sexual autonomy. The study concludes that a robust educational approach is necessary to overcome the cultural and social barriers imposed by myths and taboos, contributing to building a more informed and inclusive society. The deconstruction of these beliefs is fundamental for achieving a stigma-free and fulfilling sexuality, allowing each individual to experience their sexuality in a healthy and autonomous way.