Study Guide: Psychology of Women – Chapter 9: Sexuality

1. Background on Women's Sexuality

Theoretical Perspectives on Sexuality

• Biases in Research and Theory

  • Androcentric emphasis: Focuses primarily on male perspectives.

  • Heterosexist bias: Assumes heterosexuality as the norm.

  • Biological framework: Explains sexuality through biological processes.

  • Essentialism: Suggests sexuality is innate and universal.

• Social Constructionism

  • Views sexuality as shaped by cultural and social influences.

  • Challenges biological determinism.

2. Female Sexual Anatomy

• Mons veneris – Fatty tissue covering the pubic bone; provides cushioning.

• Prepuce (Clitoral Hood) – Protects the clitoris from overstimulation.

• Clitoris – Highly sensitive organ with ~8,000 nerve endings, more than the penis.

• Labia Majora – Outer lips of the vulva; contain sweat and oil glands.

• Labia Minora – Inner lips; protect the vagina, urethra, and clitoris.

• Perineum – Skin between the vulva and anus; sensitive, may tear during childbirth.

• Vagina – Canal connecting external genitals to the cervix; serves reproductive and sexual functions.

3. Sexual Responses

• Masters & Johnson’s Four-Phase Model

  • Excitement Phase: Increased blood flow (vasocongestion), lubrication begins.

  • Plateau Phase: Heightened arousal, muscle tension.

  • Orgasmic Phase: Rhythmic contractions, peak of pleasure.

  • Resolution Phase: Return to baseline state, relaxation.

• Gender Comparisons in Sexual Responses

  • Men and women experience similar phases and psychological reactions.

  • Women can reach orgasm as quickly as men with direct clitoral stimulation.

  • Women are more likely to experience multiple orgasms.

  • Differences influenced by external factors (e.g., culture, personal experience).

4. Sexual Desire

• Influencing Factors:

  • Hormones: Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone impact libido.

  • Social factors: Media, relationships, upbringing.

  • Cultural factors: Norms, taboos, and societal expectations.

5. Sexual Attitudes and Behavior

Attitudes About Female and Male Sexuality

• Nonmarital intercourse: Men generally hold more permissive attitudes than women.

• Sexual double standard: Different expectations for men and women.

• Cultural differences: Sexual norms vary across societies.

Sexual Scripts

• Traditional roles: Men as initiators, women as passive participants.

• Varying the script: Changing gender roles in sexual dynamics.

• Violating the script: Seen in contexts like horror films and rape culture.

Sex Education

• Parents and Sex Education

  • Mothers typically provide "the talk."

  • Certain topics are avoided.

  • Mixed messages about sexuality.

  • Ethnic differences in discussions about sex.

• Schools and Sex Education

  • Traditional approaches:

    • "Organ recital" – Focuses only on anatomy.

    • "Just say no" – Abstinence-only messaging.

  • Comprehensive Model:

    • Covers information, values, and emotional aspects.

    • Encourages informed choices and contraceptive use.

    • Leads to delayed sexual activity and lower pregnancy rates among teenagers.

    • Supported by most parents.

• The Media and Sexuality

  • Magazines promote narrow sexual scripts.

  • Media presents mixed messages about sexuality.

  • Many portrayals are unrealistic or misleading.

Key Takeaways for Exam Preparation

• Understand biases and attitudes surrounding sexuality.

• Recognize traditional sexual scripts and their variations.

• Know the different approaches to sex education and their impacts.

• Be aware of how media influences sexual attitudes and behaviors.

Study Tip: Focus on key terms and concepts, and review the impact of societal norms on sexuality for potential essay questions.