Lecture 18: Female Reproductive Behavior

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to female reproductive behavior, including mating systems, hormonal influences on sexual conduct, and behavioral responses.

What is promiscuity in terms of mating systems?

No individual has exclusive breeding rights; many copulations occur without pair bonds.

What is simultaneous polygamy?

One male bonds with many females (polygyny) or one female bonds with many males (polyandry) at the same time.

What characterizes serial polygamy?

One male or one female pair bonds with multiple partners but only one at a time.

What is seasonal monogamy?

Bonds formed anew each year, typical in most small passerine birds.

What is perennial monogamy?

Bond retained for life, seen in species like swans, geese, and eagles.

How is female sexual behavior synchronized with ovulation?

Females are sexually active only during estrus, which occurs around ovulation.

What are the three components of female sex behavior?

Attractivity, proceptivity, and receptivity.

How do estrogens affect female attractivity?

High levels enhance attractivity, while high progesterone reduces it.

What is proceptivity in female reproductive behavior?

Reactions by the female that initiate or maintain interaction with males.

What role does estradiol play in proceptivity?

Estradiol enhances proceptivity even in the absence of male interest.

What is the consummatory phase in female sexual behavior?

Female responses necessary for the male to achieve intra-vaginal ejaculation.

How does the lordosis response relate to estrogens?

High levels of estrogens increase the size and sensitivity of female genital areas, promoting the lordosis behavior.

What factors influence receptivity in female mammals?

Estrous cycle synchronization, social group dynamics, and estrogen concentrations.

Which brain regions are involved in female olfactory sexual stimulation?

Accessory olfactory bulb, medial preoptic area, and hypothalamus, among others.

What is the Lee-Boot effect?

Female mice display longer estrous cycles when housed without males, suggesting a lengthening of the diestrous stage.

What is the significance of the Coolidge effect in male sexual behavior?

Receptive females increase sexual libido in males, or reduce the stimulus value of familiar females.