Final answer:
Societal norms for sexual conduct can include monogamy or casual sexual encounters, shaped by various societal factors. While traditional values persist, a shift towards more liberal attitudes is evident, particularly among youth. Sex education contributes significantly to shaping these norms and attitudes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Today's societal norms governing sexual conduct vary greatly across different cultures and regions. In some societies, monogamy is the standard, whereas others may be more tolerant or supportive of non-monogamous relationships, including polygamous arrangements or casual sexual encounters. Each society's norms around sexuality are shaped by various influences such as family, the education system, peers, media, and religion. Despite differences, certain norms such as the incest taboo are almost universally shared, even though specifics may vary.
In recent years, the influence of peers and media, particularly among U.S. teens, has grown, suggesting a shift towards more liberal attitudes to sexual behavior. For instance, cross-national research has shown that attitudes towards premarital sex differ, with Scandinavian countries being more tolerant compared to the U.S. It is also worth mentioning that social systems within societies structure their norms around sexuality, and new movements have emerged challenging older norms, like the global LGBTQIA+ movement, which has contributed to a broader understanding and acceptance of various sexual identities and practices.
Sex education also plays a significant role in shaping societal norms around sexual behavior. Where some countries mandate sex education, the U.S. does not require it federally, leading to diverse opinions and controversies around the subject. Research indicates that while many young people support diverse family structures and sexual freedom, they still hold traditional values like monogamy in high regard, suggesting a nuanced picture of contemporary sexual norms.