Lecture on Sexual Behavior and Differentiation

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on sex, reproduction, and sexual differentiation.

Reproductive Behavior

The various behaviors that animals and humans engage in to attract mates and produce offspring.

Sexual Attraction

The initial stage of mating behavior where one individual produces stimuli to attract a potential mate.

Pair Bonding

Durable and exclusive relationships formed between two individuals that may occur as a result of sexual attraction.

Refractory Period

The period following copulation during which an individual cannot engage in sexual intercourse again.

Copulation

The act of sexual intercourse where male and female genital structures interact to allow for reproduction.

Estrus

A period in females during which they are receptive and likely to mate.

SRY Gene

The gene responsible for the development of male characteristics, present on the Y chromosome.

Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome

A condition where an individual with XY chromosomes develops a female phenotype due to an inability of cells to respond to androgens.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

A condition where a fetus is exposed to excessive androgens, potentially leading to intersex characteristics.

Aromatization

The process by which testosterone is converted into estrogen, influencing sexual differentiation.

Sexual Dimorphisms

Physical and behavioral differences between males and females of the same species.

Testosterone Therapy

A medical treatment involving the administration of testosterone, often used to investigate sexual behavior effects.

Prenatal Hormones

Hormones that influence sexual differentiation and adult behaviors during the fetal stage.

Internal Fertilization

A reproductive process where fertilization occurs inside the female's body.

External Fertilization

A reproductive process where fertilization occurs outside the female's body.

Parthenogenesis

A form of asexual reproduction where offspring are produced without fertilization by a male.

Sexual Orientation

The pattern of emotional, romantic or sexual attraction one feels towards individuals of certain genders.

Altricial Offspring

Young that are born in a helpless state and require substantial parental care for survival.

Precocial Offspring

Young that are born in a developed state and can move around shortly after birth.

Environmental Influences on Sexual Differentiation

External factors like chemicals that can affect the development of sexual characteristics and behaviors.

Lordosis

A specific posture adopted by females indicating readiness to mate, characterized by raising the hindquarters.