For me, I would call this abuse. I was absolutely terrified of taking a shower with my classmates as I was just starting to have feelings of attraction to other boys. Totally afraid that I would "get excited"... see what I mean? Abuse!
The practice of communal showering in school gym classes, especially during the 1970s through the 1990s, was rooted in different societal norms and expectations regarding modesty, privacy, and physical education. Several factors contributed to the acceptance of this practice during that time:
Cultural Norms: In earlier decades, cultural norms around privacy and modesty were different compared to today. There was a greater acceptance of communal living and shared spaces, and modesty standards were often less strict.
Health and Hygiene: Communal showers were often seen as a practical way to promote good hygiene after physical activities. It was believed that communal showers helped prevent skin infections and encouraged cleanliness among students.
Different Perceptions of Privacy: Attitudes toward privacy were different, and there was less concern about personal privacy in certain contexts. The idea of changing or showering in a communal space was viewed as a normal part of physical education, and students were expected to adapt to this practice.
Traditional Physical Education Practices: Traditional physical education practices emphasized discipline, uniformity, and adherence to established routines. Communal showers were considered part of the overall physical education experience, with an emphasis on discipline and conformity.
Lack of Alternatives: In some cases, there may not have been practical alternatives or adequate facilities for individual showers. The design of older gymnasiums and changing rooms might not have accommodated private shower spaces for each student.
Over time, societal attitudes toward privacy and personal boundaries evolved. As awareness of individual rights and autonomy increased, and cultural perspectives shifted, there was a growing recognition of the need to respect personal boundaries, especially in educational settings.
In more recent decades, there has been a trend toward providing students with greater privacy and autonomy in changing and showering facilities. Many schools have adapted to these changing cultural norms by redesigning facilities or implementing policies that respect students' desires for privacy during these activities.
It's important to note that practices around communal showers in school settings have varied widely, and not all schools adhered to this approach. Cultural and societal norms can differ significantly, and educational practices evolve in response to changing attitudes and expectations.
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