Chapter 6 Understanding Sex and Sexuality Key Terms

Sexual script Consists of expectations of how one is to behave sexually as a female or male and as a heterosexual, lesbian, or gay male. Sexual double standard It is less accepted for a woman to have many sexual partners than it is for a man.

Virginity Most people agree that we maintain virginity as long as we refrain from sexual intercourse. But occasionally we hear people speak of “technical virginity,” to refer to people who have had a variety of sexual experiences but have not had sexual intercourse.

Heterosexual People sexually attracted to members of the other gender. Homosexual People sexually attracted to members of the same gender.

Bisexual People attracted to members of both genders. Homoeroticism Erotic attraction to members of the same gender.

Coming out Publicly acknowledging one’s gayness. Outing The practice of publicly identifying closeted gays or lesbians.

Anti-gay prejudice A strong dislike, fear, or hatred of lesbians and gay men because of their homosexuality. Homophobia An irrational or phobic fear of gay men and lesbians.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) The virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDs). HIV is carried in the blood, semen, and vaginal fluid of infected persons. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) Caused by HIV, which attacks the body’s immune system.

Menopause The cessation of the menstrual cycle and an end to fertility. Autoeroticism Sexual activities that involve only the self. Includes sexual fantasies, masturbation, and erotic dreams.

Masturbation Manual stimulation of one’s genitals. Cunnilingus Erotic stimulation of a woman’s vulva by her partner’s mouth and tongue.

Fellatio Oral stimulation of a man’s penis by his partner’s sucking and licking. Sexual Intercourse Insertion of the penis into the vagina and subsequent stimulation.

Anal eroticism Sexual activities involving the anus. Anal intercourse The male’s insertion of his erect penis into his partner’s anus.

Sexual Enhancement Improving the quality of a sexual relationship. Nonmarital sex Sexual activities, especially sexual intercourse, that take place outside of marriage.

Premarital sex Sexual activities between younger, never- married adults under the age of 30. Orgasmic dysfunction Inability to attain orgasm.

Arousal difficulties The inability to become erotically stimulated. Dyspareunia Painful intercourse.

Erectile dysfunction The inability to achieve or maintain an erection. Premature ejaculation The inability to delay ejaculation after penetration.

Delayed orgasm Difficulty in ejaculating. Performance Anxiety The fear of failure.

Abstinence Refraining from sexual intercourse.