Chapter 1. Human Sexuality

Short Description

This video presents an overview on human sexuality which is a balance of instinct and intimacy. Human sexuality is an evolved function as a means of procreation so the species can survive. There are many factors involved in the expression of human sexuality, including genetic, cultural, biological factors. There are also more subjective factors such as physical attractiveness, personal style, and vocal quality that influence human sexuality.

Long Description

Additionally, factors outside our awareness also impact human attraction. For instance, research has found that the smell of someone with a different immune system than your own is more sexually attractive, as it suggests your offspring would be healthier and have more antibodies against a variety of illnesses. Cultural influences and societal expectations play a large role in what we find attractive and express our sensuality and sexuality.

It is also important to remember that hormones are the basic building blocks of human sexual behavior. Testosterone is most important hormone for males and estrogen is that most important for females. During sexual arousal, hormones increase and cause a number of physiological changes including: blood rushing to genitals, nipples hardening, lubrication of sexual organs, and increased heart rate.

In the 1960s Masters and Johnson pioneered several studies related to human sexuality. Masters and Johnson proposed a 4-stage cycle of the human sexual response: excitement (e.g., body prepares for sex, heart rate increases and blood rushes to genitals), plateau (tension builds), climax (orgasm), and resolution (body comes down from excited state). They were also interested in identifying and treating sexual dysfunctions. They noted a range of treatments for a variety of sexual dysfunctions.

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