Sociology of Sexuality: Key Concepts and Theories

Chapter 7: Sexuality ===

Sex vs Gender

Sex = biological; Gender = socially constructed.

Kinsey's Research

Showed Americans were less sexually conservative than believed.

Sexual Revolution

1960s-70s period of greater sexual freedom (birth control pill, feminism).

Sexual Counter-Revolution

1980s return to family values, abstinence, and conservatism.

Incest Taboo

Universal prohibition of sex or marriage between close relatives.

Kingsley Davis

Argued prostitution serves latent functions.

Symbolic-Interactionism (Sexuality)

Sexuality is socially constructed and varies by culture.

Social-Conflict/Feminist (Sexuality)

Sexuality reflects inequality and patriarchy.

Queer Theory

Challenges heterosexual bias and views sexuality as fluid.

Pornography Criticism

Can objectify women and promote unrealistic expectations.

Prostitution (Feminist View)

Reflects inequality and limited economic opportunity for women.

Rape Myths

Rape is about power, not sex; most victims know their attacker.