When I was 12 I had a “worthiness interview” from my local Bishop to enter the temple. He asked me explicit questions about my chastity. In particular, he asked if I had ever masturbated. At that age, I didn’t know what masturbation was, so I wasn’t sure if I had done it or not. After the Bishop graphically explained what masturbation meant, I was able to tell him that I had followed the law of chastity thus far. He also asked detailed questions about how far I had gone with boys. Had I kissed them? Was there heavy petting involved? I don’t believe there was any mal-intent during this interview, but it did skew my ideas of sex and worthiness. I am no longer active in the church. Part of the reason for this is that I will not subject my son to this type of invasive questioning and guilt tripping regarding sexuality.
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