The podcast explores the integration of spirituality and sexuality from an LDS theological perspective. It discusses the stages of development and how they shape our views on ourselves, sexuality, and God. Topics include self-acceptance, celibacy, parenting, and the impact of messages on spirituality and sexuality.
The integration of spirituality and sexuality from an LDS theological perspective is emphasized, highlighting the importance of moral and spiritual growth.
Understanding stages of development can shed light on the struggle individuals face in integrating sexuality into different stages, and facilitate growth in sexuality and spirituality.
Deep dives
Integration of Spirituality and Sexuality in LDS Theological Perspective
The presentation discusses the integration of spirituality and sexuality from an LDS theological perspective. It emphasizes that spiritual and sexual development are two sides of the same coin, highlighting the importance of moral and spiritual growth. The speaker also explores the unique theology of embodiment in the LDS faith, highlighting that the body is not seen as an impediment to spirituality, but essential to our spiritual development. The tension between the church's teachings on sexuality and the struggle many LDS individuals face in finding peace and acceptance with their sexual selves is also addressed. The speaker proposes that understanding stages of development can shed light on this struggle and facilitate growth in sexuality and spirituality. Through the stages of egocentrism, socialization, and self-authorship, individuals can progress towards integration and deeper acceptance of their sexuality as an essential part of their spirituality.
Stages of Development and Their Impact on Sexuality
The presentation discusses Robert Keegan's stages of development and their influence on how individuals perceive and express their sexuality. It highlights that individuals go through different stages of development and that the ability to handle life's challenges and maintain higher self-awareness increases with higher stages of development. The speaker condenses Keegan's five stages into three for simplicity. The egocentric stage is characterized by a self-preoccupied focus, whereas the social stage emphasizes belonging and adhering to group rules. The self-authorship stage involves a shift in focus from external validation to internal validation and a deeper understanding of oneself. The speaker suggests that individuals can face challenges in integrating sexuality into these different stages, especially due to fears, external authorities, and societal expectations. It is emphasized that progress in the different areas of life may vary, and developing a healthy relationship with sexuality requires self-acceptance, self-validation, and a willingness to be knowable in this aspect of oneself.
Parenting, Integration, and Nurturing Development
The presentation addresses how parenting can impact a child's integration and acceptance of their sexuality. It acknowledges that the way parents themselves relate to their own sexuality influences how they communicate about it with their children. The speaker encourages parents to create a safe and celebratory environment around sexuality, highlighting the importance of personal beliefs and attitudes towards embodiment. It is suggested that parents can model healthy integration and self-acceptance, which positively influences their children's understanding and acceptance of their own sexuality. The role of open communication and providing a stage-appropriate vision of sexuality is emphasized. Additionally, the speaker mentions the possibility of embracing self-validation, integrity, and a sense of wholeness in relation to sexuality, thereby moving beyond fear-based approaches. The presentation ultimately underscores that open and positive attitudes towards sexuality can contribute to individuals' overall well-being and capacity for joy.
Singles and Integration of Sexuality and Spirituality
Regarding the experience of singles, the presentation emphasizes that integration of sexuality and spirituality is not solely dependent on being in a partnered relationship, as individuals can still grow and integrate their sexuality while being single. It is noted that engaging in sexual activity does not automatically lead to integration, and that many sexually active individuals still struggle with integrating their sexuality. The speaker highlights that integration comes from a place of self-validation and a deeper understanding of oneself rather than seeking external validation or belonging. It is suggested that individuals can channel their expansive sexual energy into other areas of their lives, such as creativity and personal growth, in order to experience a sense of fulfillment and deep connection with others on a human level.
The 2023 Restore Conference (a Faith Matters Gathering) is just around the corner! This year, Dr. Finlayson-Fife will be presenting on Eros energy and how this expansive, transformative, and transcendent energy is connected to our spirituality.
Today we are releasing the recording of Dr. Finlayson-Fife's 2022 Restore presentation, "Developing Sexual Wholeness." In this episode, Dr. Finlayson-Fife discusses the integration of spirituality and sexuality from an LDS theological perspective. She also walks through the three stages of development (Egocentric, Social, and Self-Authoring) and how each developmental stage shapes how we think about ourselves, our sexuality, and God.
You can watch the video of this presentation HERE.
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