Miley Cyrus stirs controversy by calling virginity a ‘social construct’

Singer is promoting Mother’s Daughter music video

Miley Cyrus is facing criticism from fans on social media for posting a promo shot from her Mother’s Daughter music video that reads “virginity is a social construct”.

Since releasing her latest music video on 2 July, the singer has been promoting it with clips and stills on Instagram.

Among videos of her dancing in a red latex bodysuit, Cyrus has also shared images emblazoned with messages such as “not an object” and “tough titties”.

However, some fans were quick to accuse the star of being a bad role model for young fans, while also imposing her views on others when she shared a recent post about virginity being a social construct, a statement that also appears in the music video.

“Honestly you shouldn’t be posting stuff like that,” one person wrote. “You should respect people’s choices and respect the fact that you have a young audience too.”

“Or a personal choice? Just a thought, while we’re sharing our invasive opinions,” another wrote.

Others felt the singer’s post was an attack on those who maintain their virginity.

“There’s nothing wrong with being a virgin. There’s something very wrong with people who think being a virgin is a problem,” someone commented, while another said: “Virginity is a personal choice, not one for Miley to define or belittle…”

Despite the backlash, many fans have defended the singer and attempted to explain the actual meaning behind the controversial post.

“Love this... there definitely seems to still be a stigma around virginity and double standards when it comes to the social constructs for women and men after losing their virginity,” one person commented.

Another said: “SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK.”

On 11 July, the singer discussed her feelings about female bodily autonomy in an interview with Elle, in which she said: “At this time of my life, I feel the most powerful I’ve ever felt.

“I like the way being sexual makes me feel, but I’m never performing for men.”