Episode 285: Are Soul Ties Real? Overcoming a Purity Culture Teaching

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May 29, 2025

Joanna Sawatsky, co-author of influential books on sexual health and culture, dives deep into the contentious idea of 'soul ties' and their harmful impact on relationships. She critiques how these beliefs, often rooted in purity culture, perpetuate confusion and emotional distress around intimacy. Joanna also emphasizes the importance of open dialogue about sex education for parents and explores the intersection of faith and psychology, advocating for an evidence-based approach to emotional healing over mystical explanations.

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INSIGHT

What Are Soul Ties?

"Soul ties" teach that sex spiritually bonds people forever, often described as an unbreakable tie.
This idea usually aims to scare young people into abstinence rather than reflect biblical truth.

INSIGHT

Soul Ties Linked to Sexual Pain

Belief or exposure to soul ties correlates with increased sexual pain and obstructed penetration.
This link exists even among highly religious women, suggesting harmful effects of these teachings.

INSIGHT

Spiritual Language Explains Trauma

Spiritual language often explains psychological experiences that ancient people couldn't understand.
Historical examples like famine and changeling myths show humans using spiritual beliefs to make sense of trauma.

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