💑Human Sexuality Unit 7 – Sexual Behaviors and Practices

Key Concepts and Definitions

• Sexual behavior refers to any activity that induces sexual arousal or is done for sexual pleasure and enjoyment
• Sexual practices encompass a wide range of behaviors and activities related to sexual expression and intimacy
• Sexual orientation describes a person's enduring physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction to another person (heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, asexual)
• Gender identity is a person's internal sense of being male, female, neither, or other gender(s)
• Sexual scripts are culturally-defined patterns of behavior that guide sexual interactions and shape sexual roles
• Sexual norms are the social rules and expectations that guide appropriate sexual behavior within a particular culture or society
• Sexual health is a state of physical, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality, not merely the absence of disease or dysfunction

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

• Attitudes and norms surrounding sexual behavior have varied greatly across different historical periods and cultures
• In ancient Greece and Rome, same-sex relationships were widely accepted and even celebrated among men
• During the Victorian era in Western societies, sexual behavior was heavily regulated and discussions of sexuality were taboo
• The sexual revolution of the 1960s and 1970s in Western countries challenged traditional views on sexuality and led to greater openness and acceptance
  • This period saw the rise of the women's liberation movement and the gay rights movement
  • It also led to the development of contraceptive technologies like the birth control pill
• In some cultures, sexual practices are heavily influenced by religious beliefs and moral codes (Islamic societies, conservative Christian communities)
• Globalization and the spread of Western media have led to the increasing homogenization of sexual attitudes and behaviors across cultures

Biological Factors Influencing Sexual Behavior

• Sex hormones, particularly testosterone and estrogen, play a crucial role in sexual development and desire
  • Testosterone is associated with increased libido in both men and women
  • Estrogen helps regulate the female reproductive system and influences sexual receptivity
• The hypothalamus and limbic system in the brain are involved in regulating sexual behavior and motivation
• Genetics may influence sexual orientation and gender identity, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood
• Physical attractiveness, which is often tied to indicators of fertility and health, can strongly influence sexual attraction and mate selection
• Age-related changes, such as menopause in women and decreased testosterone levels in men, can affect sexual function and desire
• Certain medical conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular disease) and medications (antidepressants, blood pressure drugs) can impact sexual functioning

Types of Sexual Practices

• Masturbation is the self-stimulation of the genitals for sexual pleasure and is a common sexual practice among individuals of all genders
• Vaginal intercourse involves the insertion of the penis into the vagina and is the most commonly practiced form of heterosexual sex
• Oral sex includes using the mouth and tongue to stimulate a partner's genitals (fellatio for penises, cunnilingus for vulvas)
• Anal sex involves penetration of the anus by a penis, finger, or sex toy and is practiced by both heterosexual and same-sex couples
• BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, Masochism) encompasses a variety of erotic practices involving power exchange, restraints, and sensory stimulation
• Group sex involves sexual activity with more than two participants and can take various forms (threesomes, orgies, sex parties)
• Technology-mediated sexual practices, such as sexting, cybersex, and the use of teledildonics, have become increasingly common with the rise of digital communication

Sexual Response Cycle

• The sexual response cycle is a model that describes the physiological and psychological changes that occur during sexual arousal and activity
• It consists of four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution
  • Excitement phase: initial arousal, increased heart rate and blood flow to genitals, lubrication in women, erection in men
  • Plateau phase: heightened arousal, increased muscle tension, further engorgement of genitals
  • Orgasm phase: peak of sexual pleasure, release of sexual tension, rhythmic muscle contractions
  • Resolution phase: return to unaroused state, refractory period in men during which further orgasm is not possible
• The sexual response cycle can vary between individuals and may be influenced by factors such as age, health status, and relationship dynamics
• Disorders of the sexual response cycle, such as erectile dysfunction or anorgasmia, can cause distress and impact sexual satisfaction

Consent and Communication

• Consent is the voluntary, enthusiastic, and ongoing agreement to engage in sexual activity
  • It should be freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific
• Clear communication is essential for establishing consent and ensuring that all parties are comfortable with the sexual activity taking place
• Consent cannot be given by individuals who are underage, intoxicated, unconscious, or otherwise incapable of making informed decisions
• Nonverbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, can also convey consent or lack thereof
• The absence of a "no" does not imply consent; affirmative consent (a clear "yes") should be obtained before engaging in sexual activity
• Discussing sexual boundaries, preferences, and expectations with a partner can help foster a respectful and satisfying sexual relationship
• Power imbalances (boss/employee, teacher/student) can complicate consent and make it difficult for individuals to freely refuse sexual advances

Sexual Health and Safety

• Practicing safer sex, such as using condoms and dental dams, can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy
• Regular STI testing and treatment is important for maintaining sexual health, especially for individuals with multiple partners
• Vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine, can help prevent certain sexually transmitted infections and related health conditions (cervical cancer)
• Contraceptive methods, including hormonal birth control and intrauterine devices (IUDs), can be used to prevent unintended pregnancy
• Engaging in open and honest communication with sexual partners about sexual history, STI status, and contraceptive use is crucial for informed decision-making
• Maintaining good genital hygiene, such as washing before and after sexual activity, can help prevent infections
• Using appropriate lubrication during sexual activity can reduce friction and prevent discomfort or injury

Social and Psychological Influences

• Societal norms and expectations can shape individual attitudes and behaviors related to sexuality
  • Gender roles often dictate appropriate sexual behavior for men and women
  • The sexual double standard judges men and women differently for engaging in similar sexual behaviors
• Peer pressure and the desire to conform can influence sexual decision-making, particularly among adolescents and young adults
• Family upbringing and religious beliefs can instill values and morals that guide sexual attitudes and practices
• Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can impact sexual desire and function
  • Negative body image and low self-esteem can also affect sexual confidence and satisfaction
• Past sexual experiences, both positive and negative, can shape future sexual behaviors and relationships
  • Sexual trauma, such as sexual abuse or assault, can have long-lasting psychological effects and impact sexual functioning
• The quality of a romantic relationship, including factors like communication, trust, and emotional intimacy, can greatly influence sexual satisfaction
• Cultural background and ethnicity can shape sexual attitudes, practices, and expectations within relationships