Chapter 8 Human Sexuality

Chapter Outline Human Sexuality in the United States Changing Sexual Mores Modifying Sexual Behavior Differences between Male and Female Sexuality

Chapter Outline Physiology of the Sexual Response Marital Sex: Can I Keep the Excitement Alive? Sex and the Aging Process Sex and Drugs Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Human Sexuality Pervasive, involving humans psychologically as well as physiologically. Under conscious control, rather than instinctual, biological control. Affected by learning and social factors and thus more variable within the species.

Human Sexuality Largely directed by an individual’s beliefs, values, and attitudes. Less directly attached to reproduction. Able to serve other purposes in addition to reproduction, such as pair bonding and communication.

Changing Sexual Mores  Double Standard no longer as strict.  Sexual Revolution made rules apply less.  Freer sexual expression for men and women, heterosexual and homosexual.

Modifying Sexual Behavior  AIDS epidemic in 1980s  Boredom with recreational sex  Dating becomes focused on sex  Lack of intimacy and commitment

Differences between Men & Women

5 Leading Sexual Fantasies: Heterosexual Men 1. Replacement of established partner 2. Forced sexual encounter 3. Observation of sexual activity 4. Homosexual encounters 5. Group-sex experiences

5 Leading Sexual Fantasies: Heterosexual Women 1. Replacement of established partner 2. Forced sexual encounter 3. Observation of sexual activity 4. Idyllic encounters with unknown men 5. Lesbian encounters

Sexual Response Cycle  Excitement Phase  Plateau Phase  Orgasm

Prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation

Physiological terms Clitoris: A small organ situated at the upper end of the female genitals that becomes erect with sexual arousal; homologous with the penis. Orgasm: The climax of excitement in sexual activity.

Sex and Aging Menopause (climacteric): Cessation of ovulation, menstruation, and fertility in the woman, usually occurs between Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT): The process of supplying estrogen to menopausal woman. Osteoporosis: Deterioration of bone strength, possible symptom of menopause.

Sex and Drugs  Aphrodisiac: A chemical or other substance used to induce erotic arousal or to relieve impotence or infertility.  Anaphrodisiac: A drug or medicine that reduces sexual desire.

Frequency of Orgasm (%) AlwaysUsuallySometimesRarelyNever Men Women

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)  Individuals under age 25 account for a majority of cases.  Approximately 4 million teens get an STD every year.  Experts estimate that as many as one in three sexually active young people will have an STD by age 24.

Factors in the Resurgence of STDs 1. The Pill 2. Antibiotics 3. The increased sexual activity among the young, especially the increased number of sexual partners.

Quick Quiz

1. A drug or medicine that reduces sexual desire a) Aphrodisiac b) Anaphrodisiac c) Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) d) Viagra

Answer: b A drug or medicine that reduces sexual desire is an anaphrodisiac.

2. According to the text, this is a symptom of menopause a) Cessation of ovulation b) Cessation of menstruation c) Osteoporosis d) All of the above

Answer: d Symptoms of menopause include cessation of ovulation, cessation of menstruation, and osteoporosis.

3. According to the text, individuals under the age of 25 account for the majority of cases of a) Sexually Transmitted Diseases b) Infertility c) Unexpected Pregnancy d) Inhibited Sexual Desire

Answer: a According to the text, individuals under the age of 25 account for the majority of cases of sexually transmitted diseases.