Human Sexuality Exam 1 Study Guide PDF

**Introduction and Historical Perspectives** **Biopsychosocial Approach** - A framework for understanding human sexuality that considers biological, psychological, and social factors as interconnected influences on sexual behavior and experiences. **Pederasty** - An ancient Greek soc...

**Introduction and Historical Perspectives** **Biopsychosocial Approach** - A framework for understanding human sexuality that considers biological, psychological, and social factors as interconnected influences on sexual behavior and experiences. **Pederasty** - An ancient Greek social custom involving sexual relationships between adult men and younger boys, often idealized in historical texts but controversial by modern ethical standards. **Sexual Intelligence** - The capacity to understand oneself sexually, as well as possessing the skills and knowledge to maintain healthy and fulfilling sexual relationships. Involves four parts: self-understanding about sexuality, interpersonal sexual skills, accurate scientific knowledge, and consideration of the cultural and political contexts surrounding sex. **Behaviors Common in Non-Human Animals** - Studies of non-human animals often reveal that sexual behaviors such as same-sex interactions, masturbation, and sexual play are not unique to humans. **Slut Shaming** - The practice of criticizing or demeaning a person, typically a woman, for their real or perceived sexual behavior, often reflecting societal double standards. **Approach to Sexuality in Ancient Societies** **Egypt** - Sexuality was integrated into daily life and the afterlife; fertility and eroticism were central to art and mythology. **Greece** - As mentioned with pederasty, sexual relationships were part of mentorship and social structures. Gods and sexual themes often appeared in Greek mythology. **Hebrews** - Ancient Jewish texts promoted procreation within marriage, and sex was considered a blessing but also highly regulated within religious law. **Romans** - Roman sexuality was more liberal than that of the Hebrews, with public acceptance of brothels, homosexuality, and extramarital relationships. **China** - Sexuality intertwined with philosophical ideas like **Yin and Yang**---energies that needed to be balanced, including through sexual relations. **India and Islamic Societies** - The **Kama Sutra** from India explored not just sexual positions but also relationships, love, and sensual pleasure as part of life. - In Islamic societies, sexual relations were permissible within marriage, with detailed guidelines in religious texts about rights, duties, and sexuality. **Laws and Key Cases** **Anti-Miscegenation Laws** - Laws that banned interracial marriages and relationships in the U.S., particularly targeting Black and white couples. These laws were struck down in **Loving v. Virginia** (1967). **Loving v. Virginia** - The landmark 1967 Supreme Court case invalidated state laws prohibiting interracial marriage. **Religious Refusal/Religious Freedom Restoration Legislation** - Laws that protect individuals and businesses that refuse to participate in activities (like same-sex marriages) based on religious beliefs. **Conscience Clauses** - Legal provisions allow health care providers to refuse services like abortion or contraception if they object for moral or religious reasons. **Christianity and Sexuality** **Approaches of Key Figures** - **Paul**: Advocated for celibacy as ideal but allowed marriage as a concession. - **Augustine** Viewed sex negatively, associating it with original sin, except within marriage for procreation. - **Thomas Aquinas** Saw sex for procreation as natural but condemned any act not directed toward reproduction. - **Martin Luther**: Reformation theologian who affirmed marriage and procreative sex while condemning celibacy as unnecessary. **Sexuality in Later Eras** **Protestant Reformation, Enlightenment, and Post-Revolutionary America** - The Reformation opened discussions on marriage and sex, emphasizing family. - The Enlightenment era brought new debates about the naturalness of sex and individual rights. - Post-Revolutionary America saw a shift in focus toward modesty, domesticity, and controlled sexuality, especially for women. **Victorian Era** - Sexual repression and strict norms of behavior, especially for women, who were expected to embody the "**Cult of True Womanhood**"---piety, purity, submissiveness, and domesticity. **Comstock Laws** - 19th-century U.S. federal laws banned the distribution of "obscene" materials, including information about contraception. **Influential Figures** **Henry Havelock Ellis** - A British physician who researched human sexuality, challenging many Victorian norms and advocating for a more open and scientific view of sexual behavior. **Sigmund Freud** - Developed psychoanalytic theories, linking sexuality with unconscious drives and childhood development, and controversially introducing the Oedipus complex. **Richard Von Krafft-Ebbing** - Authored \"Psychopathia Sexualis,\" a major 19th-century text on sexual behavior, which pathologized many non-normative sexualities. **Magnus Hirschfeld** - A German physician and early advocate for gay rights who founded the Institute for Sexual Science in Berlin. **Alfred Kinsey** - Conducted groundbreaking surveys of sexual behavior in the U.S., famously challenging misconceptions about human sexuality. **Evelyn Hooker** - A psychologist whose work challenged the idea that homosexuality was a mental disorder, leading to the eventual declassification of homosexuality as a mental illness. **Masters and Johnson** - Researchers revolutionized the understanding of human sexual response with their studies on sexual arousal and orgasm. **Key Movements and Events** **Eugenics Movement** - A movement in both the U.S. and Nazi Germany promoted the idea of improving genetic quality through selective breeding, often leading to forced sterilization of marginalized groups. **Sexual Revolution** - A cultural movement during the 1960s and 70s that challenged traditional codes of behavior related to sexuality, embracing more openness, experimentation, and birth control. **Birth Control Movement** - Led by **Margaret Sanger**, this movement advocated for women\'s access to contraception, culminating in significant legal victories for reproductive rights. **Title IX** - U.S. federal law prohibits discrimination based on sex in any education program or activity receiving federal funding, including sexual harassment and assault cases. **Gay Liberation Movement** - Emerging in the late 1960s, especially after the **Stonewall incident**, a series of protests against police raids on a gay bar in New York City marked the start of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. **Landmark Court Cases** **Lawrence vs. Texas (2003)** - Supreme Court ruling those invalidated laws prohibiting consensual same-sex activity. **Bostock vs. Clayton County (2020)** - Supreme Court ruled that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects employees from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. **Obergefell vs. Hodges (2015)** - Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. **Dobbs vs. Jackson Women's Health (2022)** - Overturned the constitutional right to an abortion, reversing Roe v. Wade, which had protected reproductive rights since 1973. **Modern Movements** **Me Too Movement** - A global movement that gained traction in 2017, encouraging survivors of sexual harassment and assault to share their stories and demand accountability from perpetrators. **Effects of the ACA (Affordable Care Act)** - The ACA expanded access to healthcare, including reproductive services and contraception, without additional costs to women. Research **1. Types of Research Designs** - **Descriptive Designs** - **Definition**: Aim to describe characteristics of a population or phenomenon. - **Advantages**: Good for providing a snapshot of current behavior; useful for generating hypotheses. - **Disadvantages**: Cannot establish cause-and-effect relationships. - **Experimental Designs** - **Definition**: Involve manipulating one or more variables to observe the effect on another variable. - **Advantages**: Can determine causality; allows for control over extraneous variables. - **Disadvantages**: It may not reflect real-world scenarios and ethical considerations in manipulation. **2. Challenges of Sex Research** - **Stigma and Sensitivity**: Sex research can be stigmatized, leading to difficulties in recruiting participants and gathering honest data. - **Variety of Perspectives**: Different cultural, social, and personal beliefs can influence responses. **3. Research Samples** - **Case Study** - **Definition**: An in-depth analysis of a single case or small group. - **Use**: Often used for unique or rare phenomena. - **Representative Sample**: A sample that reflects the characteristics of the larger population. - **Random Sample**: Every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. **4. Types of Bias** - **Self-Selection Bias**: Occurs when participants choose themselves for the study, potentially skewing results. - **Demographic Bias**: When certain demographics are over- or under-represented in the sample. - **Self-Report Bias**: Bias that arises when participants report their behaviors or feelings inaccurately. - **Social Desirability**: Tendency of respondents to answer questions in a manner that will be viewed favorably by others. **5. Methods of Data Collection** - **Retrospective Self-Report**: Participants recall past behaviors or experiences. - **Interviews**: One-on-one discussions to gather in-depth information. - **Surveys**: Questionnaires are distributed to collect data from a larger group. - **Questionnaires**: Structured forms that participants fill out, often used in surveys. - **Direct Observation**: Watching and recording behavior as it occurs. - **Penile Strain Gauge**: A device used to measure erectile responses. - **Vaginal Photoplethysmograph**: A device used to measure vaginal blood flow as an indicator of sexual arousal. **6. Research Designs and Variables** - **Correlational Designs**: Examine relationships between two or more variables without manipulation. - **Limitations**: Cannot infer causation. - **Independent vs. Dependent Variables**: - **Independent Variable**: The variable manipulated by the researcher. - **Dependent Variable**: The outcome measured in the study. **7. Research Methodologies** - **Experimental Groups and Control Groups**: - **Experimental Groups**: Groups receiving the treatment or intervention. - **Control Groups**: Groups that do not receive the treatment are used for comparison. - **Randomized Controlled Trials**: Studies where participants are randomly assigned to experimental or control groups to reduce bias. - **National Health and Social Life Survey**: A comprehensive survey of sexual behavior in the U.S., providing valuable data on sexual health. **8. Ethical Principles in Research** - Informed Consent: Participants must be fully informed about the study and consent to participate. - Confidentiality: Researchers must protect participants\' identities and data. - Avoiding Harm: Researchers should not expose participants to unnecessary risks. **9. Advantages of Online Questionnaires** - Increased anonymity, which may lead to more honest responses. - Cost-effective and time-efficient. - Ability to reach a larger and more diverse population. **10. Historical Context** - **Tuskegee Syphilis Study**: A notorious study that involved unethical treatment of African American men, highlighting the importance of ethical standards in research. - **National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior**: A significant survey that provides insights into sexual practices, preferences, and health. Female anatomy, physiology, and health **1. External Genitalia** - **Vulva**: The external part of the female genitalia. - **Labia Majora**: The outer folds of skin that protect the vaginal opening. - **Labia Minora**: The inner folds of skin that are sensitive and protect the vaginal opening. - **Clitoris**: A small, sensitive organ that plays a key role in female sexual arousal. - **Bartholin's Glands**: Glands located near the vaginal opening that produce lubrication. - **Hymen**: A thin membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening. **Health Issues**: - **Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)**: Procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. Types include clitoridectomy, excision, and infibulation. Complications can include severe pain, infection, childbirth complications, and psychological trauma. **2. Internal Reproductive Organs** - **Vagina**: Muscular tube leading from the external genitals to the uterus. - **Grafenberg Spot (G-spot)**: An area in the vagina that some women report as highly sensitive and pleasurable. - **Uterus**: A hollow organ where a fertilized egg develops. Contains: - **Cervix**: The lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. - **Endometrium**: The inner lining of the uterus that thickens during the menstrual cycle. **Health Issues**: - **Vaginitis**: Inflammation of the vagina, often caused by infections (yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis). **3. Reproductive Health Issues** - **Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)**: Common infections that can affect the bladder and urethra, often causing painful urination and increased frequency. - **Effects of Douching**: This can disrupt natural vaginal flora and increase the risk of infections. Feminine hygiene sprays and removing pubic hair can also lead to irritation and infections. **4. Menstrual Health** - **Phases of the Menstrual Cycle**: - **Follicular Phase**: Preparation of the egg. - **Ovulation**: Release of the egg. - **Luteal Phase**: Preparation of the uterine lining for possible implantation. - **Dysmenorrhea**: Painful menstruation. - **Amenorrhea**: Absence of menstruation, which can be caused by various factors, including stress, excessive exercise, and hormonal imbalances. - **Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)** and **Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)**: Physical and emotional symptoms occurring before menstruation. **5. Reproductive Health and Cancer** - **Cervical Cancer**: Cancer of the cervix, often linked to HPV infection. - **Pap Smear**: Recommended for early detection of cervical cancer; generally starting at age 21, every three years until age 29, then every five years until age 65 with HPV testing. - **Endometriosis**: Condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain and possibly infertility. - **Endometrial Cancer**: Cancer of the lining of the uterus. **6. Ovarian Health** - **Ovaries**: Organs that produce eggs and hormones (estrogen and progesterone). - **Follicles**: Structures that contain immature eggs. - **Corpus Luteum**: Formed after ovulation, produces hormones to maintain early pregnancy. - **Ovarian Cysts**: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries; often benign but can cause pain. - **Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOS)**: Hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with cysts; symptoms may include irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth. - **Ovarian Cancer**: Cancer that begins in the ovaries, with risk factors including age and family history. - **Fallopian Tubes**: Tubes through which eggs travel from the ovaries to the uterus. - **Oophorectomy**: Surgical removal of one or both ovaries. **7. Hormonal Health** - **Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)**: Hormone involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and egg production. - **Luteinizing Hormone (LH)**: Hormone that triggers ovulation. - **Menopause**: The end of menstruation, typically occurring between 45-55 years of age, marked by hormonal changes. **8. Breast Health** - **Mammary Glands**: Glands in the breast that produce milk. - **Areola**: The pigmented area surrounding the nipple. - **Breast Cancer**: Malignant tumor that develops from breast tissue. - **Prevention**: Includes regular screenings and lifestyle changes. - **Mastectomy**: Surgical removal of one or both breasts, often as a treatment for breast cancer. - **Mammography**: Recommended for breast cancer screening, typically starting at age 40, depending on risk factors. **9. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)** - **Advantages**: Alleviates menopausal symptoms and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. - **Disadvantages**: It may increase the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases. - **Current Recommendations**: Tailored based on individual health risks and needs. Male anatomy, physiology, and health **1. Penis and Its Parts** - **Root:** The part of the penis that attaches to the pelvic bones. - **Glans:** The bulbous tip of the penis, sensitive to stimulation. - **Foreskin (Prepuce):** The fold of skin covering the glans can be removed through circumcision. **2. Circumcision** - **Pros:** - Potentially reduced risk of urinary tract infections. - Lower risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). - Easier hygiene management. - **Cons:** - Surgical risks (infection, bleeding). - Pain and discomfort during recovery. - Ethical and cultural considerations. **3. Internal Structures of the Penis** - **Cavernous Bodies (Corpora Cavernosa):** Two cylindrical structures that fill with blood during an erection. - **Spongy Body (Corpus Spongiosum):** Surrounds the urethra and expands at the glans. **4. Normal Penis Size** - Average size varies, but generally: - Erect: 5 to 6 inches in length. - Flaccid: 3 to 4 inches in length. **5. Process of Penile Erection** - Blood flow increases to the cavernous bodies due to sexual arousal, causing the penis to enlarge and stiffen. **6. Scrotum** - The pouch of skin that holds the testes regulates temperature for sperm production. **7. Testes** - Produce sperm and hormones like testosterone. - Located in the scrotum for temperature regulation. **8. Inguinal Canal** - The passage through which the spermatic cord passes is a potential site for inguinal hernias. **9. Cryptorchidism** - A condition where one or both testes do not descend into the scrotum may lead to infertility if untreated. **10. Epididymis** - The tube where sperm mature and are stored after being produced in the testes. **11. Process of Spermatogenesis** - The production of sperm cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testes. **12. Spermatic Cord** - A bundle of fibers and tissues that support the testes and contain blood vessels and nerves. **13. Vas Deferens** - The duct that transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct. **14. Prostaglandins** - Hormones play a role in various functions, including inflammation and smooth muscle contraction, influencing ejaculation and reproductive processes. **15. Seminal Vesicles** - Glands produce a fluid that nourishes sperm and makes up a significant portion of semen. **16. Prostate Gland** - Produces a fluid that helps protect and energize sperm; plays a crucial role in semen composition. **17. Cowper's Glands (Bulbourethral Glands)** - Produce pre-ejaculatory fluid that lubricates the urethra and neutralizes acidity. **18. Smegma** - A combination of shed skin cells, skin oils, and moisture that can accumulate under the foreskin, proper hygiene can prevent buildup. **19. Penile Injuries** - It may occur from trauma or excessive force, potentially leading to pain and complications. **20. Priapism** - A condition involving prolonged and painful erections unrelated to sexual desire, requiring medical treatment. **21. Testicular Cancer** - A malignancy that arises in the testes; symptoms include lumps, swelling, and pain. Early detection is crucial. **22. Testicular Torsion** - A medical emergency where the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood supply, requires immediate surgery. **23. Inguinal Hernia** - Occurs when tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, often in the inguinal canal. **24. Prostate Cancer** - A common cancer in men; symptoms may include difficulty urinating, pelvic pain, and blood in urine. **25. Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH)** - Enlargement of the prostate gland causing urinary symptoms; treatment may include medications or surgery. **26. Seminal Fluid** - The fluid contains sperm and other components that support sperm viability and transport. **27. Anabolic Steroid Use** - It may enhance muscle growth but can lead to health issues, including hormonal imbalances and psychological effects. **28. Andropause** - A gradual decline in testosterone levels in older men leads to symptoms like fatigue and decreased libido. **29. Gynecomastia** - The development of breast tissue in males is often due to hormonal imbalances. **30. Genital Retraction Syndrome** - A phenomenon where men fear that their genitals are shrinking or retracting, potentially leading to anxiety. **31. Difference Between Regulation of Dietary Supplements and Medications** - Medications are rigorously tested and regulated by authorities (e.g., FDA), while dietary supplements often have less stringent regulations. **32. Muscle Dysmorphia** - A psychological disorder characterized by an obsession with muscularity; treatments include therapy and medication. **33. Benefits of Kegel Exercises** - Strengthen pelvic floor muscles, improve erectile function, and enhance sexual performance. Gender and Gender Expression **Key Concepts** 1. **Gender**: A social and cultural construct encompassing roles, behaviors, and identities that society attributes to individuals based on their perceived sex. 2. **Gender Expression**: The external presentation of gender, including behavior, clothing, hairstyle, and voice, which may not necessarily align with societal expectations. 3. **Anatomical Sex**: The physical and biological characteristics (such as reproductive organs) typically categorized as male or female. 4. **Gender Identity**: An individual\'s sense of their gender, which may or may not correspond with their anatomical sex. 5. **Gender Assumptions**: Preconceived notions about how individuals of a certain gender should behave or express themselves. 6. **Gonadal Sex**: The type of gonads (ovaries or testes) an individual has, which plays a crucial role in biological sex determination. 7. **Cisgender**: Refers to individuals whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. 8. **Gender Roles**: Societal expectations regarding how individuals of different genders should behave and interact. 9. **Sex Chromosomes**: The chromosomes that determine an individual\'s sex (XX for females, XY for males). 10. **Sex Differentiation of the Brain**: The process through which the male and female brains develop differently, often influenced by hormones. 11. **Prenatal Gender Differentiation**: Refers to the biological processes that lead to the development of male or female characteristics in the womb, influenced by the presence of Müllerian ducts (female) and Wolffian ducts (male). 12. **Fetally Androgenized Female**: A female who has been exposed to high levels of androgens in utero, potentially leading to atypical development of sexual characteristics. 13. **Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS)**: A condition where an individual with XY chromosomes is resistant to male hormones (androgens), resulting in the development of female characteristics despite having male chromosomes. 14. **Diamond's Treatment of Disorders of Sexual Development**: A framework for understanding and addressing disorders of sexual development, focusing on individualized treatment rather than strict adherence to binary sex categories. 15. **Klinefelter's Syndrome**: A genetic condition (XXY) that affects males, leading to physical and developmental challenges, including issues with sexual development. 16. **5 Alpha Reductase Deficiency**: A genetic condition affecting males, leading to the underdevelopment of male genitalia at birth, often resulting in a female appearance until puberty. 17. **Turner's Syndrome**: A condition in females caused by a missing or incomplete X chromosome, resulting in various physical and developmental challenges. 18. **Androgenital Syndrome**: A condition caused by excessive androgen exposure in utero, leading to ambiguous genitalia in females. **Research and Perspectives** 19. **Research Regarding Differences Between Genders**: Studies examining biological, psychological, and social differences between genders, often focusing on behavior, cognition, and health outcomes. 20. **Evolutionary Perspective Regarding Gender Typing**: Theories suggesting that gender roles have evolved as adaptive behaviors that enhance reproductive success. 21. **Gender Socialization**: The process through which individuals learn and internalize the gender roles and behaviors expected by society. 22. **Gender Schema**: Cognitive frameworks that help individuals organize and interpret information based on gender norms and expectations. 23. **Gender Stereotypes**: Oversimplified and widely held beliefs about the characteristics and behaviors of men and women. 24. **Gender Typing**: The process by which individuals come to associate certain behaviors, interests, and roles with their gender. 25. **Gender Nonconformity/Gender Queer**: Refers to individuals who do not adhere to traditional gender norms or who identify outside of the male-female binary. 26. **Transgender**: Individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. **Social and Psychological Factors** 27. **Social Learning Influences on Gender Identity**: Theories that suggest gender identity is developed through observation, imitation, and reinforcement of gendered behaviors. 28. **Sexism**: Prejudice or discrimination based on a person\'s sex or gender, often manifesting in unequal treatment and opportunities. 29. **Transphobia/Internal Transphobia**: Fear, prejudice, or discrimination against transgender individuals, which can also manifest as internalized negative feelings about one\'s gender identity. 30. **Gender Dysphoria**: Psychological distress that arises when an individual\'s gender identity does not align with their anatomical sex. 31. **Outcomes for Gender Affirmation Surgery**: The psychological and physical benefits individuals may experience after undergoing surgery to align their physical body with their gender identity. 32. **Transitioning**: The process through which individuals change their gender presentation to align with their gender identity, which may include social, medical, or legal steps. 33. **Suggestions for Responding to Gender Variation**: Guidelines for supporting individuals with gender variation, focusing on respect, acceptance, and understanding. 34. **Cross Dressing**: The practice of wearing clothing typically associated with the opposite gender, which may or may not relate to one\'s gender identity. 35. **Challenges Facing Transgender Individuals**: Issues such as discrimination, lack of access to healthcare, and societal stigma that transgender individuals often encounter. 36. **Gender Policing**: The enforcement of traditional gender norms through social pressure or discrimination, often targeting those who do not conform to these norms. Sexual Arousal and Response - **Sexual Arousal:** A complex psychological and physiological process influenced by various factors, leading to heightened sexual interest and readiness for sexual activity. - **Masters and Johnson's Four-Stage Model of Sexual Response:** 1. **Excitement:** Increased heart rate, blood flow to genitalia, and physical arousal. 2. **Plateau:** Heightened arousal, muscle tension, and increased sensitivity. 3. **Orgasm:** Peak of sexual pleasure involving muscular contractions and release of sexual tension. 4. **Resolution:** Return to the unaroused state, accompanied by a sense of well-being. **Hormones and Sexual Function** - **Testosterone:** A hormone essential for sexual arousal and functioning in both males and females. - **Hypogonadism:** A condition where the body produces insufficient testosterone, leading to decreased libido and sexual dysfunction. - **Testosterone Replacement Therapy:** A treatment for restoring testosterone levels in individuals with hypogonadism. - **Estrogen:** A key hormone influencing sexual desire and functioning, particularly in females. - **Estrogen Replacement Therapy:** Used to alleviate symptoms of menopause and improve sexual function. - **Castration:** Surgical or chemical removal of the testes, leading to decreased testosterone levels and loss of sexual function. - **Oxytocin:** Often referred to as the \"love hormone,\" it plays a role in bonding, trust, and sexual arousal. **Neurotransmitters and Sexual Response** - **Serotonin:** A neurotransmitter that can inhibit sexual arousal and response. - **Dopamine:** Associated with pleasure and reward; promotes sexual arousal and desire. - **Frontal Lobe:** Involved in cognitive processing and decision-making related to sexual behavior. - **Spinal Cord:** Plays a critical role in the physical response to sexual stimulation and orgasm. **Erogenous Zones and Pheromones** - **Primary Erogenous Zones:** Areas of the body that are highly sensitive to sexual stimulation (e.g., genitals, breasts). - **Secondary Erogenous Zones:** Areas that may be less sensitive but can still elicit sexual arousal (e.g., neck, inner thighs). - **Pheromones:** Chemical signals released by individuals that can affect the behavior and sexual attraction of others. **Physiological Responses** - **Vasocongestion:** The engorgement of blood vessels in the genitals during sexual arousal. - **Sex Flush:** A temporary reddening of the skin due to increased blood flow during sexual arousal. - **Myotonia:** Muscle tension that occurs during sexual arousal and orgasm. - **Carpopedal Spasms:** Involuntary muscle contractions, often in the hands and feet, that can occur during orgasm. - **Ejaculatory Inevitability:** The sensation that ejaculation is imminent and cannot be delayed. - **Phases of Male Orgasm:** Involves emission (semen moving into the urethra) and ejaculation (expulsion of semen). **Orgasm Variability** - **Simultaneous Orgasms:** Occurs when both partners achieve orgasm at the same time. - **Multiple Orgasms:** The ability to achieve more than one orgasm in a short period. - **Retrograde Ejaculation:** A condition where semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis during ejaculation. **Effects on Sexual Functioning** - **Spinal Cord Injuries** Can disrupt the neural pathways involved in sexual arousal and response, leading to dysfunction. - **Diabetes:** Can cause nerve damage and circulation issues, affecting sexual arousal and functioning. - **Thyroid Disorders:** Can influence hormone levels and metabolic processes that impact sexual desire and performance. **Concepts Related to Sexual Function** - **Blue Balls:** A colloquial term for testicular discomfort following prolonged sexual arousal without orgasm. - **Refractory Period:** The time following orgasm during which an individual cannot achieve another orgasm. - **Kaplan's Triphasic Model:** A model that includes three phases of sexual response: desire, excitement, and orgasm, emphasizing the psychological aspect of desire. **Aphrodisiacs and Anaphrodisiacs** - **Aphrodisiacs:** Substances (foods, drugs, etc.) that enhance sexual desire and performance. - **Anaphrodisiacs:** Substances that reduce sexual desire or performance.