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<<< Just like long hair and bell bottoms WHAT IS SEXOLOGY? make reappearances every few years, WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF ANCIENT discussing sex never goes out of style. SEXOLOGY? WHAT ARE THE THREE DOMAINS OF SEXUALITY AND WHAT IS THEIR SIGNIFICANCE? HOW DOES CULTURE INFLUENCE EXPERIENCES QOF SEXUALITY AND SEX? The year 1977 marked the freshman year of my university expressing their sexuality more openly, aspects experience. The clothing that is today consid- of sex and sexuality were still hidden from ered “retro” (low-rise, flared bottom, frayed society. In fact, at colleges and universities— jeans) was then the style. Sex was no longer usually located among more open-minded considered taboo. People more readily talked communities—sex was still a controversial about it, it was readily available, and the prior subject. The first human sexuality course I took perceived consequences of premarital sex at the university is a case in point. Although the were no longer viewed as an obstacle. Abortion course was available, it was offered under a had been legal for about four years and was cloud of secrecy. It was not listed in the course relatively easy and inexpensive to obtain; offerings schedule printed and distributed to cohabitation before marriage was becoming a every student each semester. The human sexu- 3 common and popular thing to do; the more ality course was a “secret society” of sorts— serious sexually transmitted infections (STIs) students knew about it by word of mouth, and could be treated with a dose of penicillin; and parents did not! The course was wrapped in the AIDS pandemic was still a decade away. “brown paper,” hidden away from society. But with all the sexual freedom my genera- Still today on college campuses across tion was enjoying and with the more freethink- the country, sexuality courses are taught in ing, socially driven attitudes toward the expres- filled-to-capacity rooms. What is it about sex sion of sexuality, Playboy magazine was still and sexuality that generates such interest, displayed in brown paper wrappers on maga- such heated political debate, and such media zine stands. Even though individuals were attention? We will explore these questions and much, much more throughout this book.

Source: Author’s files SEXUAL LIFE NOW

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CHAPTER 01 4 OWN IT! prepare sexual lives.Afterall,isitreally possibleto ity toexperiencesatisfying,enjoyable Most ofusdon’t needacourseinsexual- lives are integralaspectsof who weare. ships isdifferent. “everything” weexpectedinourrelation- Relationships change.We grow. Andthe leaving usfeelingdevastated.We change. may findourpartnerhashadasecret affair, experience familyorpartnerviolence;we the lossofapregnancy. Inthecourseofrelationships, wemay after thekidsare inbed.Sometimes, awomanexperiencesinfertilityor work andthedemandstheyfacequicklyeraseideaofhavingsex other, andmore oftenthannot,they’re tired whentheycomehomefrom that comeswithsexandintimaterelationships. Couplesarguewitheach But realistically speaking,noneofusisequippedtotacklethe“everything” A PATH TOSELF-DISCOVERY EXPLORING SEXUALITYANDSEX: togetherwhatwedon’tlearn know, orthatwe’llsomehowfigure itallout. relationship thinkingweknowenoughaboutsextogetstarted,thatwe’ll and intimaterelationships. Often,weapproach ourfirstseriousintimate Each ofusisanexpertinourowninterpretations andexperiencesof“sex” influences, weallexperienceoursexuallivesfrom adifferent perspective: not-so-realistic expectations.Inadditiontothispotentiallyendlesslistof sexual behaviors,health,aging,andawiderangeofrealistic and sexual orientation,communicationstyles,variationsinexpression, aspects thatare influencedbyfactorssuchasintimacy, love,genderroles, tions are complex,becausethestudyofsexualityisawebinterwoven Do peoplereally needtobe is itpossibletowriteanentire textbookaboutsex?Doesn’t everyonedoit? Characterizing sexualityandsexisatallorder. Iwasrecently asked,“How AND SEX STUDYING SEXUALITY change thedynamicsofyoursexuallife. ual relationships withyourpartneror “teach” youhowtodeveloprewarding sex- life makeadifference? crisis, doesourunderstandingofsexual they do?Ifoursexualrelationship isin people communicatesexuallytheway it possibletounderstandhowandwhy to haveanorgasm(orabetterorgasm)?Is sexuality ofothers. become sexualbeingsandhow weexperienceoursexualityandthe complex, itispossibletogain abetterunderstandingofhowwe course ofourstudy. Althoughsexualrelationships canbequite There issomuchtodiscover aboutsexualityandsexoverthe There’s littledenyingthatoursexual Realistically speaking,Ican’t really for sexuallife?Canwe I HopetoDiscover. taught learn about sex?”Theanswerstotheseques- how Fred and Wilma of Fred andWilma on theflooratalltimesifoneorbothofactorswere inbed.Only studio-set bedrooms—and thatatleastoneactorhadfoot Show shows suchas yearsorso.Inthe1950sand1960s,populartelevision the past50 sexual livingis,withoutadoubt,changing. outsometypeof“help.”AndintheUnitedStates, it aloneorseek sexual relationships withahow-toinstructionmanual,weeithergo Given thefactthatnoneofuscomesintointimate,committed,or inappropriate, orinsufficient (Arcus, Schvaneveldt,&Moss,1993). States—the teachingsfrom previous generationsmaybeineffective, change—especially withincomplexsocieties,suchastheUnited tainly notnewtothe20thand21stcenturies. ship dynamicsortomaximizetheirrelationship’s effectiveness iscer- The conceptofeducationforpeopletobetterunderstandtheirrelation- WHAT ISSEXOLOGY? others, andsex. this booktogainasolidunderstandingofyoursexuality, thesexualityof the intricaciesofsexuallife.Inend,itismysincere hopethatyouuse willhelpyougaininsightinto make yourowndiscoveries,which,inturn, What Icando,however, ispointyoutoward apaththatwillhelpyou 2. 1. these issuesorprocesses more importanttoyouthanothers? Why didyouchoosetheseparticular fiveareas? Whatmakes sexual lifeoverthiscourse. aboutsexand Quickly jotdownfivethingsyou hopetolearn Take amomenttorespond tothefollowingquestions: Consider howtelevisionrepresentations ofsexhavechangedover , TVcensorsmandatedthatcoupleshadtwinbedsintheir I LoveLucy h Flintstones The , their ownbedroom. separate twinbedsin Ricardo occupied Ricky andLucy <<< come alongwaysince sex ontelevisionhave where showslike putty. Fast-forward tothe1990sandlater, becovered withflesh-covered button required thatactress BarbaraEden’s belly sitcom on that parents were showninthesamebed characters!). Itwasn’t untiltheearly1970s (and that’s becausetheywere not“real” Munsters Leave IttoBeaver The BradyBunch and HermanLilyMunsterof Representations of I DreamofJeannie were allowedtoshare abed Any , and Sex andtheCity time socialconditions . Inthe1960sTV The DickVan Dyke , censors and The from thesemultipledisciplines usetheirresearch, knowledge,and microscope.” Thescienceofsexologynecessitatesthatprofessionals sociology, andeducation—orwhatIrefer toas“theothersideofthe disciplines includethemedicalfieldandbiology, aswellpsychology, from anumberoffieldsstudy We willexplore alloftheseissuesthroughout ourcourseofstudy. the sexualityofcertaingroups, andsexualpathologies(IASHS,2007). sexual development,relationship development,relationship processes, Table 1.1.Forexample,today’s sexologyincludesthestudyofhuman than studyingonlysexpartsandacts,asdemonstratedin sexologyincludesmuchmore of HumanSexuality(IASHS),modern ants inChapter15.Butaccording totheInstituteforAdvancedStudy (sexual practicesthatare outsidesocialnorms).We discussthesevari- intercourse, sexualfunction,and/orvariants,suchas the primaryfocusofsexologyisstudymechanicssexual Study ofHumanSexuality, 2007).Manypeopleincorrectly assumethat to theobjective,empiricalstudyofsexuality(InstituteforAdvanced demic knowledgeinsexualscienceandwhodevoteshimselforherself behavior inallaspects.A Sexology SEXOLOGY: ASCIENTIFICQUEST the scienceof students), wemustlookatsexualityfrom anacademicviewpoint,orthrough uality (suchasincreased ratesoforalsexamongadolescentsandcollege riences ofsexualityintoday’s globalsociety, andtheshiftsintrends insex- acters actingmanyofthemout. The GirlsNextDoor ubro icpie otiuet u nesadn fsxlg oa.Theseinclude: A number ofdisciplinescontribute toourunderstandingofsexology today. Source: AmericanAcademyofClinicalSexologists(2007) Contributors toSexology TABLE 1.1 • • • • • Sexology isalsoamultidisciplinaryscience,andprofessionals To better understandsocietalchanges,thecomplexanddiverseexpe- human sexual behaviors. thescientiststhencomparethesebehaviors with animals; means Biology sexuality acrosscultures. Sociology: human development, includingsexual development. Psychology: as paraphilias. sexual behavior, fromsexual dysfunctionstosexual variants, such Psychiatry: organs). reproductive organisms) andgynecology(thescienceofwomen’s growth,study oftheformation, early anddevelopment ofliving Medicine: involves thesystematic,organizedstudyofhumansexual beginnings and sexology This study includes embryology andgenetics(the This studyincludesembryology This studyexamines therolesandfunctions of This science seeks to understand certain disordersin This scienceseekstounderstandcertain Ethology: This disciplinehelpsusunderstandallaspectsof not onlydescribesexualacts,butalsoshowchar- . ) lookatthesexual behavior ofdifferent sexologist Together, biologyandethology(which contribute to modern contribute tomodern is apersonwhohasexpertaca- sexology. These

paraphilias <<< begin itsquestofunderstandingsexuality. present throughout manyancientcultures, culture Western wasslowto aspects people’s lives. continue tobetterunderstandthesexologicalandnon-sexological and cultures around theworld.Through theirefforts, sexologists people,intheUnitedStates expertise tofurtherthesexualhealthofall • • • • • during sex?” “What makesyoucurlyour professors help promotesexual healththrougheducation. Counselors, and and Therapists (AASECT),andother instructors Associationof Sexualityated withtheAmerican Educators, Education: rape andchildsexual abuse. Criminology: spinal cordinjuries. disabledsexual people, suchasthosewith responsesincertain Thissciencegives insightintothe ines thebasicsexual reflexes. Neuroscience: transmitted infections. Epidemiology: cultures. helps usunderstandthecausesofsexual behavior across Biology: Evolutionary Even thoughaninterest insexualityandsexualexpression was Educators, such as certified sexualityEducators, educatorsaffili- suchascertified Criminologists studymany sexualCriminologists offenses, suchas This sciencehelpsusbetterunderstandsexually This new contribution tothefield ofsexology exam- Why dowe dowhatwe do? This discipline

toes

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ANCIENT SEXOLOGY art gives us a glimpse into other eras-old cultural under- standings of sexuality. But despite the existence of these Attempts to systematically investigate or Ancient Greek primitive sex manuals in other cultures, Western culture was document the attributes of sex have <<< Erotic Art slow to begin its quest of understanding sexuality. The been around for thousands of years. science of sexology in the Western world is only about The oldest sex manual known to 100 years old. In Chapter 2, we will explore sexology through the world was written in the the 19th and 20th centuries, and its impact on our under- Greco-Roman era, somewhere use their abdominal muscles to standing and experiences of sexuality today. between the third and first delay orgasm (Anad, 2003). centuries BCE. Written by More accurately, though, the 10 Philaenis of Samos, The Art chapters in the Kama Sutra of Love was the first-of-a- describe 64 types of sexual WHAT IS SEXUALITY? kind manual that was circu- acts that include highly THE INTERRELATED DOMAINS lated widely in the ancient descriptive information on Depiction of the world. This work was one of stimulating sexual desire, types OF SEXUALITY the few to be written by a of embraces, different types of Praiseworthy Man Often when people define human sexuality, they define it in terms of sex- woman, and at the time it was caressing and kissing, marking and Woman >>> ual anatomy and physiology, different sexual behaviors, or attraction to the authoritative guide for all or scratching with fingernails, bit- another person. Others understand their sexuality as the quality of being matters pertaining to sex. The ing and marking with teeth, sexual either a male or a female, or of being either heterosexual or homosexual. pragmatic work included discus- positions, slapping by hand and the In most species, sexual behavior essentially serves the purposes of sions and depictions of sexual posi- types of moaning that correspond Praiseworthy Women: reproduction (Bancroft, 2002). In humans, however, sexuality is far more tions, the description of aphrodisiacs with slapping, sexual potency in women, “In order that a woman complex. The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the (substances that are said to arouse oral sex, and preludes to the game of love may be relished by men, United States (SIECUS) defines human sexuality as a dimension of our sexual desire), abortifacients (substances and (Sudhir & Doniger, 2003). she must have a perfect personality that encompasses our sexual beliefs, attitudes, values, methods to terminate an unwanted pregnancy), Another ancient Indian love manual, the Ananga waist, and must be plump and lusty. Her bust and belly [must be] behaviors, and knowledge (SIECUS, 2009). Sexuality is a part of who we and even described the use of cosmetics to entice a lover Ranga, written in 1172 CE, is aimed specifically at prevent- large; her breasts must be full and firm, her belly in good propor- are as a person, a part of our personality, and part of what makes each (The Egypt Exploration Society, 2007). ing husbands and wives from separating. Its content includes the seats tion; the lower part of the belly is to be large, the vulva projecting of us unique. A lifelong learning process, sexuality integrates the physi- The Kama Sutra (also known as Kamasutram) is notoriously of passion for women, the temperaments of women, and the “internal” and fleshy . . . the conduit [vagina] must be narrow and not moist, cal, emotional, social, and cultural experiences of our lives (Alberta thought to be an ancient sex manual, although only 10 of the 36 and “external” enjoyments of women. soft to the touch, and emitting a strong heat and no bad smell; she Society for the Promotion of Sexual Health, 2007). SIECUS affirms that must have thighs and buttocks hard, the hips large and full; plump

chapters are devoted to sex. Written in the first to sixth centuries, the Written somewhere between 1410 and 1434, The Perfumed 7

6 sexuality is a fundamental part of being human, and it is worthy of dig- Kama Sutra is an ancient Indian text that addresses the Hindu aims arms, and well-developed shoulders. If one looks at a woman with Garden of Sensual Delight is an Arabic sex manual and an erotic work nity and respect (2009). It is this foundational belief from which we those qualities in front, one is fascinated; if from behind, one dies and priorities of life; the content of the chapters center on sexual Sexual Life Now of literature. Replete with advice on sexual techniques, warnings about engage in our exploration of sexuality. union, the acquisition of a wife, proper conduct of wives, with pleasure” (p. 15). sexual health, remedies for sexual problems, and even a Sexuality involves three interrelated domains that all play an the wives of other people, how to choose lovers, and brief discussion about sex between animals, trans- There’s no doubt about it—interest in sexuality and sexual expres- equal role in how we experience and express our sexuality: the how to make oneself attractive to potential part- lators believe what makes this ancient prose sion has been present throughout ancient cultures, and ancient erotic biological, psychosocial/psychosexual, and sociocultural dimensions ners (Avari, 2007). unique is the clinical, serious nature in which CHAPTER 01 The word kama means wish, desire, the most provocative and “obscene” and intention; it also means pleasure and matters are detailed (Burton, 1886; sexual love (Sudhir & Doniger, 2003). Coville, 1999). The types of pleasure that arise from There are variations in how this sex talk n human contact (such as sexual erotic work has been translated contact) are called kama. The word and interpreted. Sir Richard What Is Your Definition of Sexuality? sutra signifies a thread, or thread- Francis Burton (1821–1890), an At the beginning of each semester in my sexuality course, I ask students to define “sex.” Here are some of their responses: ed discussions about concise English linguist and author, com- rules. The Kama Sutra is thus a pleted the most well-known “Sex is just that—sex. Intercourse. Penis into vagina. A few hot, sweaty moments of passion. Euphoria afterward. And then you repeat <<< work about the rules of pleasure, interpretation. The Perfumed the process, either within a few minutes, a few days, a few weeks, or a few months.” desire, and intentions (Sudhir & Garden provides explicit details “I think sex is an innate, inborn drive, in every species. Humans are just lucky—we get to do it because we want to, not because we have to!” Doniger, 2003). to “praiseworthy” (sexually “When you think about it, sex is everything that love is; it’s companionship, trust, respect, intimacy, jealousy, humor, communication, The Kama Sutra is often desirable) men and women: friendship, commitment. How can you separate any of these components from sex?” confused with tantric sex. Broadly stated, tantric sex involves the Praiseworthy Men: “[The “I think there is a difference between sex and sexual intercourse. I think sex is sinful, but I think sexual intercourse is OK for the purposes sexual practices that originated penis], to please women, of procreation.” with Buddhist folklore whereby men must have at most a length of “Sex can be anything. The key to great sex, though, is that that each partner has the same definition!” the breadth of twelve fingers, or “Sex is … AWESOME!” <<< three hand-breadths, and at least six fingers, or a hand and a half >>> TALK ABOUT IT Image from >>> breadth. A man whose member is of 1. At this point in your academic career, how would you define “sex”? the Kama Sutra less dimensions cannot please women” 2. In your experiences, does your culture shape your sexuality and your sexual experiences? If so, how? (Burton, 1886, p. 2). 01_THS_CH01(002-015).qxp 5/10/108:37AMPage8

CHAPTER 01 8 The THE BIOLOGICALDOMAIN at eachofthesedimensionsthatmakeupoursexuality. change asweage.Inthesectionsthatfollow, we’lltakeabrieflook eted. Oursexualityisthusanongoing,fluidprocess thatundergoes and are continuouslygrowing andchanging;eachdomainismultifac- 1.1).Allthree ofthesedomainsare inconstantinteraction Figure (see Sexuality Figure 1.1 iwo ot nowa ewl td hogotti course. view ofsortsintowhatwewillstudythroughout this biological domainandmore throughout thistext.Thefollowingisapre- ality experiences.We giveconsiderableattentiontothesefacetsofthe including thecontributionsofhereditary factorsthatcontributetosexu- physiology, gender, andgenetics, as maleandfemaleanatomy Sexuality Figure 1.2 biological domain Psychosexual Psychosocial/ • Sexualhealth • Sexualorientation • Sexhormones • Sexualdifferentiation • Genetics • Gender • Anatomy andphysiology tm an atomy Interrelated Domainsof Biological The BiologicalDomain of (see Figure 1.2)ofsexualityexplores areas such Biological d ph ysio l Cultural ine thefollowing: ality throughout ourtimetogether, amongotherissueswewillexam- sonality withotherpsychologicalfactors. domain sexual thecontextofour in takes intoconsiderationour social andemotional/psychologicalaspectsofsexuality. Thisdomain psychosocial domain others), are integralpartsofour sexualityequationandsexualhealth.The (within ourselves),aswell feelings feel, howweexperiencethesethoughtsand and sex,wemustgobeyondbiologicalinfluences.Howthink sexuality. Butinorder tomore fullyunderstandsexuality understanding sure orsexualarousal andresponse are, withoutquestion,importantto How ourbodiessexuallydevelopandhowweexperiencesexualplea- PSYCHOSEXUAL DOMAIN THE PSYCHOSOCIAL/ ing influencesfrom the sexualitytoday. We mustalsoconsidertheinteract- how weexperience But biologicalinfluencesaloneare notsufficient todescribe andexplain understanding therole ofbiology inshapinghumansexuality. He provides acomprehensive review ofthekeyconceptsrelative to been involvedinvariousaspectsofsexresearch forthepast30years. • • • • • associated withsexualtrauma (abuse,rape,harassment,and body image;self-conceptandself-worth; genderidentity;feelings Chapter 8); to Chapter6);experiencesof love andloving(see span(refer intimacy developmentandmaintenance across thelife sw xlr h scooilpyhsxa oano sexu- As weexplore thepsychosocial/psychosexual domainof relation tosexuality(Bancroft, 2002). (see Chapters13and14),butphysicalemotionalwell-beingin of sexualdysfunction,orillnessrelated tothereproductive organs Feelings andemotions: Sexual health Sexual orientation Sex hormones Sexual differentiation John Bancroft, MD,formerdirector ofTheKinseyInstitute,has influences. willthoroughly explore thesehormonal In Chapter3,we of thereproductive organs,aswellthecentralnervoussystem. produced inthedevelopingbaby, whichdirect thedevelopment the prenatal periodofhumandevelopment,certainhormonesare and anatomicaldifferentiation intomaleandfemale.Throughout after birth. hormonal influencesandbraindifferentiation, andhormonal levels includes acomprehensive lookattherole ofgenetics,prenatal the biologicalcontributionstosexualorientation.Thisdiscussion ual, homosexual,orbisexual.InChapter7,weexplore indepth 5, 12,and16). feeding, andsexualitythrough theagingprocess (seeChapters 4, the experiencesofsexualpleasure, pregnancy, childbirth,breast- puberty. Sexhormonesalsoplaykeyroles insexualresponse and continuetoinfluencesexualmaturationthrough but theyalso sabedn fsortsofthesexualaspects ofourper- is ablendingof social is notmerely theabsenceofadisease,sometype psychosocial/psychosexual not onlydirect sexualdifferentiation inthewomb, (see Figure 1.3)ofhumansexualityrefers tothe eeomn n experiences.The development and psychological interpersonally refers towhetherapersonisheterosex- refers totheprenatal physiological This multifaceteddimensionincludes development andexperiences (within ourrelationships with oano sexuality. domain of intrapersonally psycho- or her stand thataperson’s sexandsexualityare determinedinlargepartbyhis iors isinfluencedbytheculture inwhichtheylive.Itisimportanttounder- How individualsunderstandandpracticetheirsexualitysexualbehav- THE CULTURAL DOMAIN an understandingofonemore criticalinfluence: chological andsocialfactors.But,tounderstandsexualityfully, weneed of individualbiophysicalfactorsthatare intricatelyintertwinedwithpsy- As youare beginningtosee,whoyouare asasexualbeing istheresult Psychosexual Domain ofSexuality Figure 1.3 • • Sexual health: ual, andbisexualrelationships; andsexualityaging. ital cohabitation,marriage,anddivorce; heterosexual, homosex- cial andpsychosexualdevelopment;dating,hookingup,nonmar- friendstoourpsychoso- oursexuality;thesignificanceof shape ment ofgenderroles; interrelationships withfamilyandhowthey cial/psychosexual domainincludessuchtopicsasthedevelop- Interpersonal relationships: skills (Chapter9). includes sexualdecisionmakingandinterpersonalcommunication tudes aboutsexualityandsexualbehavior. Thisdomainalso sexuality, sexualhealthrefers tothedevelopmentofhealthyatti- sexual orientation(suchascomingout). with coercion) (Chapter17);andfeelingsemotionsassociated social identity communicationskills • Sexualdecisionmakingand • Sexualattitudes • Interpersonalrelationships withsexualorientation • Feelingsandemotionsassociated trauma • Feelingsassociatedwithsexual • Genderidentity • Self-conceptandself-worth • Bodyimage • Experiencesofloveandloving • Intimacydevelopment . Socialidentitycanbelookedatintwodifferent ways. Within thepsychosocial/psychosexualdomainof Within The Psychosocial/ Psychosexual Psychosocial/ t This area ofthepsychoso- culture

. Suh, 2002).Thegoalsofthe family’s nameortheregion from whichheorsheoriginates(Triandis & question, “Whoare you?”acollectivist islikelytorespond bygivingthe the relationships theyhold with others.Forinstance,ifaskedthe riences, attitudes,andbehaviors(Neto,2007). ture, becauseculturallyapproved beliefsinfluenceourexpectations,expe- defines itssocialidentityasa On theotherhand,sociologistsseektodeterminewhetherculture belong, suchasaracialorethnicgroup, theirfriends,andfamilies. identify anddefinethemselvesthrough thesocialgroups towhichthey introduced the Social psychologistsHenriTajfel andJohnTurner (1979),forexample, <<< tures promote theideaof autonomyandindividuationfrom thefamily, society—guide theirbehaviors(Johnson etal.,2005).Individualisticcul- and theirpersonalneeds rights—ratherthantheneedsof selves astrulyindependententities from thesocietyinwhich theylive, (Myers, 2008).Unlikeincollectivistcultures, cation level,andmaritalstatus)promote individualovergroup goals self intermsofpersonalattributes(suchaswealth,socialstatus, edu- al., 2005). the largersocietyare inseparable incollectivistsocieties(Johnsonet personal goals,mateselection,sexualattitudes,behaviors, and of love,includingextendedfamilymembers.People’s self-concepts, whole, andtheytherefore emphasizefamilybondsintheir experiences al.,1999). feelings ofcloseness(Kupperbusch,et collectivist cultures stress harmony, cooperation,andthepromotion of maintainharmonywithinthegroup, to et al.,2005).Becauseofthedesire theirpersonalbehavior(Johnson obligation anddutytothesocietydrives feelingof eficial membersofthesociety(Triandis &Suh,2002), anda 2008). Inthesecultures, membersstrivetobeequal,contributing,ben- ority overindividualneeds,andgroup membershipisimportant(Myers, the psychosocial/psychosexualdomain. ourselves andtoward others,makeup accompany sexuality, The thoughtsandemotionsthat In In For example,Asiansaccentuatetheimportanceofcollective individualistic cultures collectivist cultures social identitytheory collective , individualsdefinetheiridentityintermsof collectivist , peopledefinetheiridentityorsenseof —the wholesociety—are given pri- to helpusunderstandhowpeople culture oran both within individualists individualistic view them-

cul-

9 Sexual Life Now Life Sexual

11 Sexual Life Now <<< <<< go a long orphins) . e a week is equiv- age. o. For example, one ong relationship n sexual decisions are inextricably tied to the impact they sexual decisions are Healthy Sex stabilizes your mood. a change in your overall lifestyle. But all of these can changes may require small, and some of these Some of these changes are In collectivist cultures, will have on family bonds. Healthy Selves • of sex hormones. Keep your weight as close to ideal as possible. of weight can stimulate the production Losing small amounts • levels, particularly as we sexual response may affect and high blood pressure diet. High cholesterol nutritious Eat a healthy, • all the time! tired to be in the mood for sex when you’re hard of sleep each night. It’s Get seven to eight hours • a positive attitude. Accept your body as it is. Keep • sex. at parties or have unprotected situations put yourself in dangerous Don’t your sexuality. Protect • a sexual person. Believe in yourself as • optimal sexual health levels. Stick to the adage, “everything in moderation” for your sexual response Alcohol and drugs affect • of the feel-good hormones (end your heart and other muscles, the release strengthen Not only does exercise regularly. Exercise study from England indicated that the happiness people get from increasing their sexual activity from one time per month to onc their sexual activity from increasing get from England indicated that the happiness people study from a $50,000 raise at work (Davis, 2006)! Without is a str alent to the happiness they would feel if they received question, there your sex life: how health affects sex. Here’s between overall health, overall lifestyle, and great <<< Sex! Great Healthy Body, but to our overall happiness, to sexuality and sex contribute not only to healthy relationships, shows us that healthy Research both your sex drive and sexual desire! improving way toward refers to an refers Religiosity influencing our Sexuality education is one of several reflects the depth to which a person experi- the depth to which a person reflects Spirituality Sexuality education: used to influence the sexual health and sexual methods that are sexuality educa- quality of life for people. The goal of programmatic youth, adolescents, and adults develop a tion is to help children, their sexual knowledge, for their sexuality, sense of responsibility a education promotes and their sexual health; it is believed that this the 2, we will explore high level of wellness in individuals. In Chapter education, as well as cultural meanings and contexts of sexuality how this factor shapes our sexuality in the United States. Religion: ences the sacred or a deity (Guralnik, 1982). ences the sacred Religious principles expression. for religious preference individual’s on the conduct of individ- and spirituality can have a marked effect of their lives. Asuals in all areas you will see in Chapter 2, these many people’s principles significantly shape and influence religious sexual attitudes, values, beliefs, and behaviors. The media bombards us with multiple us The media bombards images of sex daily, • •

<<< gender roles and identities. lid tit Cultural factors (see Figure 1.4) factors (see that significantly Figure The Cultural Domain • Social identity heritage • Cultural roots and • Race • Ethnicity knowledge, • Sexual attitudes, norms and • Religion • Media • Sexuality education We are exposed to a number of sources across our life across exposed to a number of sources are We impacting Social identity Media: spans, from parents and other family members to the classroom, parents spans, from peers to books or maga- to Hollywood icons, from music from thezines, from TV to from Internet to the fashion industry, movies. In Chapter we’ll take a 3, serious look at how media influence our gender roles and gender identities. In Chapter 18, we’ll examine the sex industry, which includes print and Internet pornog- most adult films, literature, erotic raphy, and sex workers. There are other cultural are There •

Figure 1.4 their sexuality and determines how people define them- selves, sexual behaviors. >>> which, in turn, affects relationship satisfaction, the ease with which inti- which, in turn, relationship affects for marriage (Dion & Dion, macy is established, and “love” as a basis choose relationship to standards, by society’s free, 1993). Partners are of thought that this freedom partners that best suit their needs; it is choice and the experiences of love, satisfaction enhances relationship and sex. intimacy, influence and shape sexuality and sex, particularly in Westerninfluence and shape sexuality and sex, particularly cultures. we will discuss this term, As we continue our study together across each of these factors at length:

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CHAPTER 01 12 including: to haveimpacton21st-centurysexuality, and culturalchangesoccurred thatcontinue ofthe20thcentury, anumberofsocial half the UnitedStatesmovedintosecond influence theexperienceofoursexuality. As And certainly, broader socialchangesalso people experienceandenjoytheirsexuality. Today, there are substantialdifferences inhow EDUCATION SEXUAL LIFE members. shapes anddirects thesexualattitudes,norms,andbehaviorsofits Throughout thistextbook,youwillseehowaculture’s socialidentity culturalcontextsinwhichwelive(Bowleg,Lucas,&Tschann, 2004). the It iswithoutquestionthatsexualbehaviorcannotbeisolatedfrom sexuality andsexwillequipyou and strengthen yourknowledge baseas regardless ofyoursexual beliefs,attitudes,orexperiences,ourstudyof cial/psychosexual, andcultural lives. ourlives,includingbiological,psychoso- affects everyotherarea of uality. Clearly, oursexualityisaninseparablepartofbeingthat sex- sotoodoourexperiences ofour through thelifecourse, change aspectofourrelational lives.Aswe nor isitisolatedtojustone andperfectlytimedorgasms.Italsodoesn’t existinavacuum, parts of sexualattitudes,expressions, andexperiences. of sexuallifeinanopenandhonestwaytounpackthecomplexities introduction tothetopic,Ihopeyouare ready todealwithissues is the“secret society”ofhumansexualitycourses.Afterthisbrief sense, weare worldsawayfrom thattime.Longgone first yearofmycollegeexperience,inanother changes indepth. study inthisbook,wewillexamineallofthese practice theirsexuality, and,throughout our the waysinwhichAmericansexperienceand All ofthesefactorsworktogethertochange Therole offeminisminattemptingto • Increased ratesandsocialacceptance • Changes inattitudesregarding mar- • Changes inattitudestoward abortion • Anincrease inthewoman’s abilityto • Delaysinmarriage • Lowered birthrates •

Each ofyoucomestothiscourse withyourownsexualhistory. But Sexuality, ofcourse,issomuchmore thanjustperfectbody Although weare notfarhistorically from that in thehomeandsociety overcome thetraditionofpatriarchy sex relationships of nonmaritalcohabitationandsame- riage anddivorce tive drugsordevices control herfertilitythrough contracep- sleeves andgetbusy! today’s complex,globalsociety. solet’s We havealottolearn, roll upour relationships. There ismuch todiscoveraboutsex—about you prepare foracareer inthehelpingprofessions orforyourintimate <<< United States. experience sexuality, impacted howpeopleviewand Broad societalchangeshave particularly inthe real sex in sexual lifenow pregnancies andSTIsHIV/AIDS.Shouldabstinence-until-marriagebetheonlysexeducationyouthteensreceive? from havingsexuntilmarriage,orwhetheralackofeducationandinformationservesonlytoputteensatgreater riskforunw bring suchpolarityastheissueofabstinenceeducation.Atiswhethereducationalprograms keeppreteens andteens Is itgreat towait?Ahotlydebatedtopicamongreligious leadersandorganizations,educations,politicalgroups, fewtop Should Abstinence-Until-MarriageBetheOnlySexEducation? National GuidelinesTask Force (1994). (2004). Abstinenceuntilmarriage:thebestmessageforteens.The Family Research Council.RetrievedAugust 19, 2009,from www Sources: .Inyouropinion,whatisthemosteffective sexeducation:abstinenceonly, birthcontrol/ 2. Doabstinence-onlyprograms putadolescentsatriskforunwantedconsequencesofsex, 1. >>> YES! YES! prevention only, oracombinationofbothprograms? Whydidyoureach thisdecision? such aspregnancy andSTIs? Evidenceshowsabstinence-onlyprograms (AOP) • According totheFamilyResearch Council,kidshav- • Teenage momsare more likelytoliveunderthecon- • Three millionteens—one-fourthofallsexuallyactive • WHAT DOYOUTHINK? Alford, S.(2001).Transitions, rights,respect, responsibility. RetrievedAugust19,2009,from www.advocatesforyouth.org; Mah remaining avirginuntilmarriage). positive effect ofvirginitypledges (thecommitmentto an increase inpregnancies innon-AOPdistricts,anda a markeddrop inpregnancies overatwo-yearperiod, Columbus, Georgia,overaperiodoffouryearsfound of Educationforuseinalleighth-gradeclasses work. AnAOPadoptedbytheGeorgiaStateBoard welfare. year inlosttaxrevenue andsupport services,suchas ing kidscostsAmericantaxpayersover$7billionper and drop outofschoolthemselves. who are more likelytohavelowergrades,beabused, education haveaprofound effect on of school(Maher, 2004).Theirpovertyandlimited straints ofpoverty, because41percent willdrop out (Guttmacher Institute,2007). teens inAmerica—haveasexuallytransmitteddisease life Guidelines forcomprehensivesexualityeducation. their children, NO! NO! Aftercompletingacomprehensive sexeducationpro- • Incontrast,Comprehensive SexualityEducation (CSE) • AdvocatesofsexeducationnotethatAOPsexclusively • ofsexeducationmaintainthatAOPs: Supporters • cies, fewerinstancesofSTIs,andhealthyteens. use protective measures. Thismeansfewerpregnan- gram, amajorityofteens(70percent) are more likelyto al decisions. has arightandanobligationtomakeresponsible sexu- sexual decisionshaveconsequences;andeveryperson sexual activityshouldneverbeexploitativeorcoercive; core principles:everypersonisvaluableandhasworth; addresses theseareas, allthewhilemaintainingseveral disease, suchasoralandanalsex. no mentionofothersexualactivitythatcanalsoleadto agreed-upon requirement forlosingvirginity),butmake address vaginalintercourse (whichisthecommonly active teens. bisexuals, gays,lesbians,singlemoms,andsexually and otherformsofbirthcontrol; andriskalienating omit criticalinformation,includingtheuseofcondoms lescents willhavesexandshouldprotect theirhealth); adolescents intosexualabstinence;are unrealistic (ado- provide fear-based educationthattriestoscare New York: SIECUS. .frc.org; ics anted

er, B.

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CHAPTER Sample Test Questions

MULTIPLE CHOICE 7. Which is TRUE about the relationship of culture to human sexuality? a. Culture shapes the sexual attitudes, norms, and behaviors of 01 1. Which is NOT true regarding sexology? its members. Summary a. It includes the study of human development and b. Sexual behavior can be fully understood without reference to relationship processes. cultural influences. b. It is multidisciplinary. c. Culture determines the biological and physiological character of 4 WHAT ARE THE THREE DOMAINS WHAT IS SEXOLOGY? c. It has ancient origins. human sexuality. OF SEXUALITY AND WHAT IS THEIR • Sexology is a scientific quest to know and to d. Its primary focus is on the mechanics of intercourse. d. All cultures have essentially the same attitude toward SIGNIFICANCE? 7 understand how and why people experience 2. How has sexuality changed in the United States over the last human sexuality. their sexuality and sex the ways they do. It is a • Sexuality involves three interrelated domains that 50 years? 8. What is a way to maintain healthy sexual response levels? multidisciplinary science that includes the study of all play an equal role in how we experience and a. Sexuality is censored more than ever in the media. human sexual development, relationship develop- a. Having unprotected sex express our sexuality: the biological, psychosocial/ b. Sexuality has become more prominent in the media. ment, relationship processes, the sexuality of certain groups, and psychosexual, and sociocultural dimensions. All three of these b. Exercising regularly c. Sexuality is no longer censored by network television. sexual pathologies. domains are in constant interaction and are continuously growing c. Eating foods high in fat and changing. d. Sexuality has become a topic that society no longer d. Drinking alcohol to excess WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS cares about. OF ANCIENT SEXOLOGY? 6 HOW DOES CULTURE INFLUENCE 3. What is the oldest known sex manual? SHORT RESPONSE • For thousands of years, people have THE EXPERIENCES OF SEXUALITY a. Perfumed Garden written and illustrated manuals and literary AND SEX? 9 b. Kama Sutra 1. Using what you learned in this chapter, respond to a friend who c. Art of Love thinks that there is little need for a course in human sexuality. works that document the attributes of sex and • The understanding and practices of sexuality and included advice on sexual techniques, sexual behaviors are influenced by culture. In order d. Sexual Behavior in the Human Male 2. Identify two different approaches to sex education in the information about sexual health and problems. to understand sexuality, it is important to consider 4. Sexual differentiation is a topic of interest under which domain United States. the impact of social factors such as media, religion, race, ethnicity, of sexuality? 3. Provide an example of one aspect of sexuality in which the heritage, and concepts of social identity. a. Biological psychosocial/psychosexual domain would be useful. b. Psychosocial/Psychosexual 4. Describe the difference between collectivistic and individualistic c. Cultural cultures. d. Interpersonal 5. In your opinion, what has the largest influence on sexual 5. Which BEST describes human sexuality? behaviors? Why? 15 14 Key Terms a. It is limited to the purpose of reproduction.

b. It is the quality of being either male or female. Sexual Life Now

01 sexology the systematic, organized study of biological domain of sexuality sexual a racial or ethnic group, their friends, and c. It involves an identity independent of cultural influences. human sexual behavior in all aspects 5 exploration of areas such as male and female their families 9 d. It includes sexual beliefs, values, behaviors, and anatomy and physiology, gender, and genetics, sexologist a person who has expert academic collectivist culture culture in which individuals knowledge. knowledge in sexual science and who devotes including the contributions of hereditary factors define their identity in terms of the relationships

CHAPTER 6. Which is NOT studied in the psychosocial domain of sexuality? that contribute to sexuality experiences 8 they hold with others 9 himself or herself to the objective, empirical a. Intrapersonal feelings study of sexuality 5 psychosocial domain of sexuality the individualistic culture culture in which b. Self-concept and self-worth Kama Sutra an ancient Indian text that social and emotional/psychological aspects people define their identity or sense of self in c. Hormones that direct sexual differentiation addresses the rules of pleasure, desire, of sexuality 8 terms of personal attributes (such as wealth, d. The influence of family relationships on sexuality and intentions 6 psychosexual domain of sexuality a blending social status, education level, and marital Sexuality Information and Education of the sexual aspects of our personality with status) and promote individual over Council of the United States (SIECUS) other psychological factors 8 group goals 9 council that defines human sexuality as a social identity theory theory constructed by spirituality reflection of the depth to which a dimension of our personality that encompasses Tajfel and Turner to help us understand how person experiences the sacred or a deity 10 our sexual beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviors, people identify and define themselves through religiosity an individual’s preference for

and knowledge 7 the social groups to which they belong, such as religious expression 10 1. d; 2. b; 3. c; 4. a; 5. d; 6. c; 7. a; 8. b 8. a; 7. c; 6. d; 5. a; 4. c; 3. b; 2. d; 1.

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