Bahá’í Youth and Sexuality: A Personal/Professional View

Abstract

This paper examines the role of Bahá’í youth with respect to prevailing attitudes towards sexuality found in Western society. Drawing on the results of a survey of 3,600 Canadian teenagers, the paper delineates some current attitudes in the general population. The role of youth and the process of spiritual growth, as described in the Bahá’í writings, are explored with particular attention to the concept of sexuality and the principle of chastity. A number of practical suggestions are made for both individuals and institutions who must deal with matters of sexuality.