Sons of Patriarchy Recovering from Purity Culture
Sep 1, 2025
Dr. Camden Morgante, a licensed psychologist and author, dives deep into the lasting impacts of purity culture on faith, sexuality, and relationships. She unpacks its harmful myths, like the idea of being 'damaged goods' and the false promises of marital fulfillment. Camden emphasizes the urgent need for recovery, highlighting strategies to rebuild a healthier sexual identity. She also discusses parenting post-purity culture, advocating for open conversations about consent and respect to foster healthier future generations.
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Author's Personal Background
- Dr. Camden Morgante shares she grew up in purity culture and includes parts of her story in the book.
- She practices therapy focused on women's issues, relationships, sexuality, trauma, and spirituality.
Shame, Not Abstinence, Caused Harm
- Purity culture used shame and fear to enforce abstinence until marriage rather than teaching healthy sexuality.
- Dr. Camden Morgante argues the harm came from cultural expressions, not the belief in abstinence itself.
Five Myths That Shape Purity Culture
- Morgante identifies five myths: spiritual barometer, fairytale, flipped-switch, damaged-goods, and gatekeepers.
- These myths shape expectations that often break down in real relationships and sexual life.
