fbpx
Wikipedia

Human sexual activity

March 12, 2023

This article is about sexual practices and related social aspects. For broader aspects of sexual behaviour, see Human sexuality.
"Sexual activity" and "sexual behaviour" redirect here. For sexual behaviour of other animals, see Animal sexual behaviour.

Human sexual activity, human sexual practice or human sexual behaviour is the manner in which humans experience and express their sexuality. People engage in a variety of sexual acts, ranging from activities done alone (e.g., masturbation) to acts with another person (e.g., sexual intercourse, non-penetrative sex, oral sex, etc.)[1] in varying patterns of frequency, for a wide variety of reasons. Sexual activity usually results in sexual arousal and physiological changes in the aroused person, some of which are pronounced while others are more subtle. Sexual activity may also include conduct and activities which are intended to arouse the sexual interest of another or enhance the sex life of another, such as strategies to find or attract partners (courtship and display behaviour), or personal interactions between individuals (for instance, foreplay or BDSM). Sexual activity may follow sexual arousal.

Human sexual activity has sociological, cognitive, emotional, behavioural and biological aspects; these include personal bonding, sharing emotions and the physiology of the reproductive system, sex drive, sexual intercourse and sexual behaviour in all its forms.

In some cultures, sexual activity is considered acceptable only within marriage, while premarital and extramarital sex are taboo. Some sexual activities are illegal either universally or in some countries or subnational jurisdictions, while some are considered contrary to the norms of certain societies or cultures. Two examples that are criminal offences in most jurisdictions are sexual assault and sexual activity with a person below the local age of consent.

Types

Sexual activity can be classified in a number of ways. The practices may be preceded by or consist solely of foreplay.[2] Acts which involve one person (also called autoeroticism) may include sexual fantasy or masturbation.[2] If two or more people are involved, they may engage in vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex or mutual masturbation.[2] Penetrative sex between two people may be described as sexual intercourse, but definitions vary. If there are more than two participants in a sex act, it may be referred to as group sex. Autoerotic sexual activity can involve use of dildos, vibrators, butt plugs, and other sex toys, though these devices can also be used with a partner.

Sexual activity can be classified into the gender and sexual orientation of the participants, as well as by the relationship of the participants. The relationships can be ones of marriage, intimate partners, casual sex partners or anonymous. Sexual activity can be regarded as conventional or as alternative, involving, for example, fetishism or BDSM activities.[3][4]

Fetishism can take many forms, including the desire for certain body parts (partialism) such as breasts, navels, or feet.[5] The object of desire can be shoes, boots, lingerie, clothing, leather or rubber items. Some non-conventional autoerotic practices can be dangerous. These include autoerotic asphyxiation and self-bondage.[6] The potential for injury or even death that exists while engaging in the partnered versions of these fetishes (choking and bondage, respectively) becomes drastically increased in the autoerotic case due to the isolation and lack of assistance in the event of a problem.[6]

Sexual activity that is consensual is sexual activity in which both or all participants agree to take part and are of the age that they can consent.[7] If sexual activity takes place under force or duress, it is considered rape or another form of sexual assault. In different cultures and countries, various sexual activities may be lawful or illegal in regards to the age, gender, marital status or other factors of the participants, or otherwise contrary to social norms or generally accepted sexual morals.[7]

Mating strategies

Main article: Human mating strategies
See also: Animal sexual behaviour

In evolutionary psychology and behavioral ecology, human mating strategies are a set of behaviors used by individuals to attract, select, and retain mates. Mating strategies overlap with reproductive strategies, which encompass a broader set of behaviors involving the timing of reproduction and the trade-off between quantity and quality of offspring (see life history theory).

Relative to other animals, human mating strategies are unique in their relationship with cultural variables such as the institution of marriage.[8] Humans may seek out individuals with the intention of forming a long-term intimate relationship, marriage, casual relationship, or friendship. The human desire for companionship is one of the strongest human drives. It is an innate feature of human nature, and may be related to the sex drive. The human mating process encompasses the social and cultural processes whereby one person may meet another to assess suitability, the courtship process and the process of forming an interpersonal relationship. Commonalities, however, can be found between humans and nonhuman animals in mating behavior.

Stages of physiological arousal during sexual stimulation

 
This Indian Kama sutra illustration, which shows a woman on top of a man, depicts the male erection, which is one of the physiological responses to sexual arousal for men.

The physiological responses during sexual stimulation are fairly similar for both men and women and there are four phases.[9]

  • During the excitement phase, muscle tension and blood flow increase in and around the sexual organs, heart and respiration increase and blood pressure rises. Men and women experience a "sex flush" on the skin of the upper body and face. Typically, a woman's vagina becomes lubricated and her clitoris becomes swollen.[9] A man's penis will become erect.
  • During the plateau phase, heart rate and muscle tension increase further. A man's urinary bladder closes to prevent urine from mixing with semen. A woman's clitoris may withdraw slightly and there is more lubrication, outer swelling and muscles tighten and reduction of diameter.[9]
  • During the orgasm phase, breathing becomes extremely rapid and the pelvic muscles begin a series of rhythmic contractions. Both men and women experience quick cycles of muscle contraction of lower pelvic muscles and women often experience uterine and vaginal contractions; this experience can be described as intensely pleasurable, but roughly 15% of women never experience orgasm and half report having faked it.[9] A large genetic component is associated with how often women experience orgasm.[9]
  • During the resolution phase, muscles relax, blood pressure drops, and the body returns to its resting state. Though generally reported that women do not experience a refractory period and thus can experience an additional orgasm, or multiple orgasms soon after the first,[10][11] some sources state that both men and women experience a refractory period because women may also experience a period after orgasm in which further sexual stimulation does not produce excitement.[9][12] This period may last from minutes to days and is typically longer for men than women.[9]

Sexual dysfunction is the inability to react emotionally or physically to sexual stimulation in a way projected of the average healthy person; it can affect different stages in the sexual response cycles, which are desire, excitement and orgasm.[13] In the media, sexual dysfunction is often associated with men, but in actuality, it is more commonly observed in females (43 percent) than males (31 percent).[14]

Psychological aspects

Main article: Sexology

Sexual activity can lower blood pressure and overall stress levels.[15] It serves to release tension, elevate mood, and possibly create a profound sense of relaxation, especially in the postcoital period. From a biochemical perspective, sex causes the release of oxytocin and endorphins and boosts the immune system.[15]

Motivations

"Pity sex" redirects here. For the American rock band, see Pity Sex.

People engage in sexual activity for any of a multitude of possible reasons. Although the primary evolutionary purpose of sexual activity is reproduction, research on college students suggested that people have sex for four general reasons: physical attraction, as a means to an end, to increase emotional connection, and to alleviate insecurity.[16][17]

Most people engage in sexual activity because of pleasure they derive from the arousal of their sexuality, especially if they can achieve orgasm. Sexual arousal can also be experienced from foreplay and flirting, and from fetish or BDSM activities,[18] or other erotic activities. Most commonly, people engage in sexual activity because of the sexual desire generated by a person to whom they feel sexual attraction; but they may engage in sexual activity for the physical satisfaction they achieve in the absence of attraction for another, as in the case of casual or social sex.[19] At times, a person may engage in a sexual activity solely for the sexual pleasure of their partner, such as because of an obligation they may have to the partner or because of love, sympathy or pity they may feel for the partner.

A person may engage in sexual activity for purely monetary considerations, or to obtain some advantage from either the partner or the activity. A man and woman may engage in sexual intercourse with the objective of conception. Some people engage in hate sex which occurs between two people who strongly dislike or annoy each other. It is related to the idea that opposition between two people can heighten sexual tension, attraction and interest.[20]

Self-determination theory

Research has found that people also engage in sexual activity for reasons associated with self-determination theory. The self-determination theory can be applied to a sexual relationship when the participants have positive feelings associated with the relationship. These participants do not feel guilty or coerced into the partnership.[21] Researchers have proposed the model of self-determined sexual motivation. The purpose of this model is to connect self-determination and sexual motivation.[22] This model has helped to explain how people are sexually motivated when involved in self-determined dating relationships. This model also links the positive outcomes, (satisfying the need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness) gained from sexual motivations.[22]

According to the completed research associated with this model, it was found that people of both sexes who engaged in sexual activity for self-determined motivation had more positive psychological well-being.[22] While engaging in sexual activity for self-determined reasons, the participants also had a higher need for fulfillment. When this need was satisfied, they felt better about themselves. This was correlated with greater closeness to their partner and higher overall satisfaction in their relationship.[22] Though both sexes engaged in sexual activity for self-determined reasons, there were some differences found between males and females. It was concluded that females had more motivation than males to engage in sexual activity for self-determined reasons.[22] Females also had higher satisfaction and relationship quality than males did from the sexual activity.[22] Overall, research concluded that psychological well-being, sexual motivation, and sexual satisfaction were all positively correlated when dating couples partook in sexual activity for self-determined reasons.[22]

Frequency

See also: Sexually active life expectancy

The frequency of sexual activity might range from zero to 15 or 20 times a week.[23] Frequency of intercourse tends to decline with age.[24] Some post-menopausal women experience declines in frequency of sexual intercourse, while others do not.[25] According to the Kinsey Institute, the average frequency of sexual intercourse in the US for individuals who have partners is 112 times per year (age 18–29), 86 times per year (age 30–39), and 69 times per year (age 40–49).[26]

Adolescents

Further information: Adolescent sexuality

The age at which adolescents tend to become sexually active varies considerably between different cultures and from time to time. (See Prevalence of virginity.) The first sexual act of a child or adolescent is sometimes referred to as the sexualization of the child, and may be considered as a milestone or a change of status, as the loss of virginity or innocence. Youth are legally free to have intercourse after they reach the age of consent.

A 1999 survey of students indicated that approximately 40% of ninth graders across the United States report having had sexual intercourse. This figure rises with each grade. Males are more sexually active than females at each of the grade levels surveyed. Sexual activity of young adolescents differs in ethnicity as well. A higher percent of African American and Hispanic adolescents are shown to be more sexually active than White adolescents.[27]

Research on sexual frequency has also been conducted solely on female adolescents who engage in sexual activity. Female adolescents tended to engage in more sexual activity due to positive mood. In female teenagers, engaging in sexual activity was directly positively correlated with being older, greater sexual activity in the previous week or prior day, and more positive mood the previous day or the same day as the sexual activity occurred.[28] Decreased sexual activity was associated with prior or current day negative mood or menstruation.[28]

Although opinions differ, others[who?] suggest that sexual activity is an essential part of humans, and that teenagers need to experience sex. According to a research study, sexual experiences help teenagers understand pleasure and satisfaction.[29] In relation to hedonic and eudaimonic well-being, it stated that teenagers can positively benefit from sexual activity. The cross-sectional study was conducted in 2008 and 2009 at a rural upstate New York community. Teenagers who had their first sexual experience at age 16 revealed a higher well-being than those who were sexually inexperienced or who were first sexually active at a later age of 17.[29] Furthermore, teenagers who had their first sexual experience at age 15 or younger, or who had many sexual partners were not negatively affected and did not have associated lower well-being.[29]

Health and safety

Sexual activity is an innately physiological function,[30] but like other physical activity, it comes with risks. There are four main types of risks that may arise from sexual activity: unwanted pregnancy, contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI/STD), physical injury, and psychological injury.

Unwanted pregnancy

Main article: Unintended pregnancy

Any sexual activity that involves the introduction of semen into a woman's vagina, such as during sexual intercourse, or contact of semen with her vulva, may result in a pregnancy. To reduce the risk of unintended pregnancies, some people who engage in penile-vaginal sex may use contraception, such as birth control pills, a condom, diaphragms, spermicides, hormonal contraception or sterilization.[31] The effectiveness of the various contraceptive methods in avoiding pregnancy varies considerably, and depends on the method rather than the user.[32]

Sexually transmitted infections

Main article: Sexually transmitted infection
 
A rolled-up male condom

Sexual activity that involves skin-to-skin contact, exposure to an infected person's bodily fluids or mucous membranes[33] carries the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection. People may not be able to detect that their sexual partner has one or more STIs, for example if they are asymptomatic (show no symptoms).[34][35] The risk of STIs can be reduced by safe sex practices, such as using condoms. Both partners may opt to be tested for STIs before engaging in sex.[36] The exchange of body fluids is not necessary to contract an infestation of crab lice. Crab lice typically are found attached to hair in the pubic area but sometimes are found on coarse hair elsewhere on the body (for example, eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, mustache, chest, armpits, etc.). Pubic lice infestations (pthiriasis) are spread through direct contact with someone who is infested with the louse.[37][38][39]

Some STIs like HIV/AIDS can also be contracted by using IV drug needles after their use by an infected person, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding.[40]

Aging

See also: Sexuality in older age

Factors such as biological and psychological factors, diseases, mental conditions, boredom with the relationship, and widowhood have been found to contribute to a decrease in sexual interest and activity in old age, but older age does not eliminate the ability to enjoy sexual activity.[41]

Orientations and society

Main article: Sexual orientation

Heterosexuality

Main article: Heterosexuality
 
Sexual intercourse in the missionary position

Heterosexuality is the romantic or sexual attraction to the opposite sex. Heterosexual practices are institutionally privileged in most countries.[42] In some countries, mostly those where religion has a strong influence on social policy, marriage laws serve the purpose of encouraging people to have sex only within marriage. Sodomy laws have been used to discourage same-sex sexual practices, but they may also affect opposite-sex sexual practices. Laws also ban adults from committing sexual abuse, committing sexual acts with anyone under an age of consent, performing sexual activities in public, and engaging in sexual activities for money (prostitution). Though these laws cover both same-sex and opposite-sex sexual activities, they may differ in regard to punishment, and may be more frequently (or exclusively) enforced on those who engage in same-sex sexual activities.[43]

Different-sex sexual practices may be monogamous, serially monogamous, or polyamorous, and, depending on the definition of sexual practice, abstinent or autoerotic (including masturbation). Additionally, different religious and political movements have tried to influence or control changes in sexual practices including courting and marriage, though in most countries changes occur at a slow rate.

Homosexuality

Main article: Homosexuality
See also: Gay sexual practices and Lesbian sexual practices
 
An Ottoman miniature from the book Sawaqub al-Manaquib depicting homosexuality

Homosexuality is the romantic or sexual attraction to the same sex. People with a homosexual orientation can express their sexuality in a variety of ways, and may or may not express it in their behaviors.[44] Research indicates that many gay men and lesbians want, and succeed in having, committed and durable relationships. For example, survey data indicate that between 40% and 60% of gay men and between 45% and 80% of lesbians are currently involved in a romantic relationship.[45]

It is possible for a person whose sexual identity is mainly heterosexual to engage in sexual acts with people of the same sex. Gay and lesbian people who pretend to be heterosexual are often referred to as being closeted (hiding their sexuality in "the closet"). "Closet case" is a derogatory term used to refer to people who hide their sexuality. Making that orientation public can be called "coming out of the closet" in the case of voluntary disclosure or "outing" in the case of disclosure by others against the subject's wishes (or without their knowledge). Among some communities (called "men on the DL" or "down-low"), same-sex sexual behavior is sometimes viewed as solely for physical pleasure. Men who have sex with men, as well as women who have sex with women, or men on the "down-low" may engage in sex acts with members of the same sex while continuing sexual and romantic relationships with the opposite sex.

 
A 1925 Gerda Wegener painting, "Les delassements d'Eros" ("The recreations of Eros"), of two women engaged in sexual activity in bed

People who engage exclusively in same-sex sexual practices may not identify themselves as gay or lesbian. In sex-segregated environments, individuals may seek relationships with others of their own gender (known as situational homosexuality). In other cases, some people may experiment or explore their sexuality with same (or different) sex sexual activity before defining their sexual identity. Despite stereotypes and common misconceptions, there are no forms of sexual acts exclusive to same-sex sexual behavior that cannot also be found in opposite-sex sexual behavior, except those involving the meeting of the genitalia between same-sex partners – tribadism (generally vulva-to-vulva rubbing, commonly known by its "scissoring" position) and frot (generally penis-to-penis rubbing).

Bisexuality and pansexuality

Main articles: Bisexuality and Pansexuality

People who have a romantic or sexual attraction to both sexes are referred to as bisexual.[46][47] People who have a distinct but not exclusive preference for one sex/gender over the other may also identify themselves as bisexual.[48] Like gay and lesbian individuals, bisexual people who pretend to be heterosexual are often referred to as being closeted.

Pansexuality (also referred to as omnisexuality)[49] may or may not be subsumed under bisexuality, with some sources stating that bisexuality encompasses sexual or romantic attraction to all gender identities.[50][51] Pansexuality is characterized by the potential for aesthetic attraction, romantic love, or sexual desire towards people without regard for their gender identity or biological sex.[52] Some pansexuals suggest that they are gender-blind; that gender and sex are insignificant or irrelevant in determining whether they will be sexually attracted to others.[53] As defined in the Oxford English Dictionary, pansexuality "encompasses all kinds of sexuality; not limited or inhibited in sexual choice with regards to gender or practice".[54]

Other social aspects

General attitudes

Alex Comfort and others propose three potential social aspects of sexual intercourse in humans, which are not mutually exclusive: reproductive, relational, and recreational.[55] The development of the contraceptive pill and other highly effective forms of contraception in the mid- and late 20th century has increased people's ability to segregate these three functions, which still overlap a great deal and in complex patterns. For example: A fertile couple may have intercourse while using contraception to experience sexual pleasure (recreational) and also as a means of emotional intimacy (relational), thus deepening their bonding, making their relationship more stable and more capable of sustaining children in the future (deferred reproductive). This same couple may emphasize different aspects of intercourse on different occasions, being playful during one episode of intercourse (recreational), experiencing deep emotional connection on another occasion (relational), and later, after discontinuing contraception, seeking to achieve pregnancy (reproductive, or more likely reproductive and relational).[citation needed]

Religious and ethical

Main articles: Sexual morality, Religion and sexuality, and Norm (sociology)
 
 
 
Khajuraho Hindu and Jain temple complex is famous for erotic arts.

Human sexual activity is generally influenced by social rules that are culturally specific and vary widely.[56]

Sexual ethics, morals, and norms relate to issues including deception/honesty, legality, fidelity and consent. Some activities, known as sex crimes in some locations, are illegal in some jurisdictions, including those conducted between (or among) consenting and competent adults (examples include sodomy law and adult-adult incest).

Some people who are in a relationship but want to hide polygamous activity (possibly of opposite sexual orientation) from their partner, may solicit consensual sexual activity with others through personal contacts, online chat rooms, or, advertising in select media.

Swinging involves singles or partners in a committed relationship engaging in sexual activities with others as a recreational or social activity.[57] The increasing popularity of swinging is regarded by some as arising from the upsurge in sexual activity during the sexual revolution of the 1960s.

Some people engage in various sexual activities as a business transaction. When this involves having sex with, or performing certain actual sexual acts for another person in exchange for money or something of value, it is called prostitution. Other aspects of the adult industry include phone sex operators, strip clubs, and pornography.

Gender roles and the expression of sexuality

Main articles: Sexual identity, Gender identity, and Gender roles

Social gender roles can influence sexual behavior as well as the reaction of individuals and communities to certain incidents; the World Health Organization states that, "Sexual violence is also more likely to occur where beliefs in male sexual entitlement are strong, where gender roles are more rigid, and in countries experiencing high rates of other types of violence."[58] Some societies, such as those where the concepts of family honor and female chastity are very strong, may practice violent control of female sexuality, through practices such as honor killings and female genital mutilation.[59][60]

The relation between gender equality and sexual expression is recognized, and promotion of equity between men and women is crucial for attaining sexual and reproductive health, as stated by the UN International Conference on Population and Development Program of Action:[61]

"Human sexuality and gender relations are closely interrelated and together affect the ability of men and women to achieve and maintain sexual health and manage their reproductive lives. Equal relationships between men and women in matters of sexual relations and reproduction, including full respect for the physical integrity of the human body, require mutual respect and willingness to accept responsibility for the consequences of sexual behaviour. Responsible sexual behaviour, sensitivity and equity in gender relations, particularly when instilled during the formative years, enhance and promote respectful and harmonious partnerships between men and women."

BDSM

Main article: BDSM
 
A man handcuffed to a bed and blindfolded

BDSM is a variety of erotic practices or roleplaying involving bondage, dominance and submission, sadomasochism, and other interpersonal dynamics.[57] Given the wide range of practices, some of which may be engaged in by people who do not consider themselves as practicing BDSM, inclusion in the BDSM community or subculture usually being dependent on self-identification and shared experience.[62] BDSM communities generally welcome anyone with a non-normative streak who identifies with the community; this may include cross-dressers, extreme body modification enthusiasts, animal players, latex or rubber aficionados, and others.

B/D (bondage and discipline) is a part of BDSM. Bondage includes the restraint of the body or mind.[63] D/s means "Dominant and submissive". A Dominant is one who takes control of a person who wishes to surrender control and a submissive is one who surrenders control to a person who wishes to take control.[63] S/M (sadism and masochism) is the other part of BDSM. A sadist is an individual who takes pleasure in the pain or humiliation of others and a masochist is an individual who takes pleasure from their own pain or humiliation.[63]

Unlike the usual "power neutral" relationships and play styles commonly followed by couples, activities and relationships within a BDSM context are often characterized by the participants' taking on complementary, but unequal roles; thus, the idea of informed consent of both the partners becomes essential. Participants who exert dominance (sexual or otherwise) over their partners are known as Dominants or Tops, while participants who take the passive, receiving, or obedient role are known as submissives or bottoms.

These terms are sometimes shortened so that a dominant person may be referred to as a "Dom" (a woman may choose to use the feminine "Domme") and a submissive may be referred to as a "sub". Individuals who can change between Top/Dominant and bottom/submissive roles – whether from relationship to relationship or within a given relationship – are known as switches. The precise definition of roles and self-identification is a common subject of debate within the community.[64] In a 2013 study, researchers stated that BDSM is a sexual act where participants play role games, use restraint, use power exchange, use suppression and pain is sometimes involved depending on individual(s).[65] The study serves to challenge the widespread notion that BDSM could be in some way linked to psychopathology. According to the findings, one who participates in BDSM may have greater strength socially and mentally as well as greater independence than those who do not practice BDSM.[65] It suggests that people who participate in BDSM play have higher subjective well-being, and that this might be due to the fact that BDSM play requires extensive communication. Before any act occurs, the partners must discuss their agreement of their relationship. They discuss how long the play will last, the intensity, their actions, what each participant needs or desires, and what, if any, sexual activities may be included. All acts must be consensual and pleasurable to both parties.[65]

In a 2015 study, interviewed BDSM participants have mentioned that the activities have helped to create higher levels of connection, intimacy, trust and communication between partners.[63] The study suggests that Dominants and submissives exchange control for each other's pleasure and to satisfy a need. The participants have remarked that they enjoy pleasing their partner in any way they can and many surveyed have felt that this is one of the best things about BDSM. It gives a submissive pleasure to do things in general for their Dominant while a Dominant enjoys making their encounters all about their submissive and enjoy doing things that makes their submissive happy. The findings indicate that the surveyed submissives and Dominants found BDSM makes play more pleasurable and fun. The participants have also mentioned improvements in their personal growth, romantic relationships, sense of community and self, the dominant's confidence, and their coping with everyday things by giving them a psychological release.[63]

Legal issues

Main article: Sex and the law

There are many laws and social customs which prohibit, or in some way affect sexual activities. These laws and customs vary from country to country, and have varied over time. They cover, for example, a prohibition to non-consensual sex, to sex outside marriage, to sexual activity in public, besides many others. Many of these restrictions are non-controversial, but some have been the subject of public debate.

Most societies consider it a serious crime to force someone to engage in sexual acts or to engage in sexual activity with someone who does not consent. This is called sexual assault, and if sexual penetration occurs it is called rape, the most serious kind of sexual assault. The details of this distinction may vary among different legal jurisdictions. Also, what constitutes effective consent in sexual matters varies from culture to culture and is frequently debated. Laws regulating the minimum age at which a person can consent to have sex (age of consent) are frequently the subject of debate, as is adolescent sexual behavior in general. Some societies have forced marriage, where consent may not be required.

Same-sex laws

Main article: LGBT rights by country or territory

Many locales have laws that limit or prohibit same-sex sexual activity.

Sex outside marriage

In the West, sex before marriage is not illegal.[example needed] There are social taboos and many religions condemn pre-marital sex. In many Muslim countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan,[66] Afghanistan,[67][68][69] Iran,[69] Kuwait,[70] Maldives,[71] Morocco,[72] Oman,[73] Mauritania,[74] United Arab Emirates,[75][76] Sudan,[77] Yemen,[78] any form of sexual activity outside marriage is illegal. Those found guilty, especially women, may be forced to wed the sexual partner, publicly beaten, or stoned to death.[79] In many African and native tribes, sexual activity is not viewed as a privilege or right of a married couple, but rather as the unification of bodies and is thus not frowned upon.[80]

Other studies have analyzed the changing attitudes about sex that American adolescents have outside marriage. Adolescents were asked how they felt about oral and vaginal sex in relation to their health, social, and emotional well-being. Overall, teenagers felt that oral sex was viewed as more socially positive amongst their demographic.[81] Results stated that teenagers believed that oral sex for dating and non-dating adolescents was less threatening to their overall values and beliefs than vaginal sex was.[81] When asked, teenagers who participated in the research viewed oral sex as more acceptable to their peers, and their personal values than vaginal sex.[81]

Minimum age of sexual activity (age of consent)

Main article: Age of consent

The laws of each jurisdiction set the minimum age at which a young person is allowed to engage in sexual activity.[82] This age of consent is typically between 14 and 18 years, but laws vary. In many jurisdictions, age of consent is a person's mental or functional age.[83][84][85] As a result, those above the set age of consent may still be considered unable to legally consent due to mental immaturity.[83][84][85][86][87] Many jurisdictions regard any sexual activity by an adult involving a child as child sexual abuse.

Age of consent may vary by the type of sexual act, the sex of the actors, or other restrictions such as abuse of a position of trust. Some jurisdictions also make allowances for young people engaged in sexual acts with each other.[88]

Incestuous relationships

Main article: Legality of incest

Most jurisdictions prohibit sexual activity between certain close relatives. These laws vary to some extent; such acts are called incestuous.

Incest laws may involve restrictions on marriage rights, which also vary between jurisdictions. When incest involves an adult and a child, it is considered to be a form of child sexual abuse.[89][90]

Sexual abuse

Main articles: Sexual abuse, Rape, and Sexual assault

Non-consensual sexual activity or subjecting an unwilling person to witnessing a sexual activity are forms of sexual abuse, as well as (in many countries) certain non-consensual paraphilias such as frotteurism, telephone scatophilia (indecent phonecalls), and non-consensual exhibitionism and voyeurism (known as "indecent exposure" and "peeping tom" respectively).[91]

Prostitution and survival sex

Main article: Prostitution

People sometimes exchange sex for money or access to other resources. Work takes place under many varied circumstances. The person who receives payment for sexual services is known as a prostitute and the person who receives such services is referred to by a multitude of terms, such as being a client. Prostitution is one of the branches of the sex industry. The legal status of prostitution varies from country to country, from being a punishable crime to a regulated profession. Estimates place the annual revenue generated from the global prostitution industry to be over $100 billion.[92] Prostitution is sometimes referred to as "the world's oldest profession".[93] Prostitution may be a voluntary individual activity or facilitated or forced by pimps.

Survival sex is a form of prostitution engaged in by people in need, usually when homeless or otherwise disadvantaged people trade sex for food, a place to sleep, or other basic needs, or for drugs.[94] The term is used by sex trade and poverty researchers and aid workers.[95][96]

See also

References

  1. ^ Walker, Audrey; Schlozman, Steven; Alpert, Jonathan (2021). Introduction to Psychiatry: Preclinical Foundations and Clinical Essentials. Cambridge University Press. p. 454. ISBN 978-0521279840.
  2. ^ a b c Greenberg, Jerrold S.; Bruess, Clint E. Bruess (2016). Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality. Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 545. ISBN 978-1284081541.
  3. ^ Milton, Martin (2010). Therapy and Beyond: Counselling Psychology Contributions to Therapeutic and Social Issues. John Wiley & Sons. p. 211. ISBN 978-0470797587.
  4. ^ Dodd, SJ (2020). Sex-Positive Social Work. Columbia University Press. p. 108. ISBN 978-0231547666.
  5. ^ Chand, Suresh (2019). Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, 1st Edition. Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 272. ISBN 978-8131254585.
  6. ^ a b The Certified Criminal Investigator Body of Knowledge. CRC Press. 2017. p. 447. ISBN 978-1498752060.
  7. ^ a b Cowling, Mark; Reynolds, Paul (2017). Making Sense of Sexual Consent. Routledge. pp. 1–304. ISBN 978-1351920711.
  8. ^ Low, B. S. (2007). Ecological and socio-cultural impacts on mating and marriage 31 December 2022 at the Wayback Machine. Oxford Handbook of Evolutionary Psychology, 449.
  9. ^ a b c d e f g Daniel L. Schacter; Daniel T. Gilbert; Daniel M. Wegner (2010). Psychology. Macmillan. pp. 335–336. ISBN 978-1429237192. Retrieved 10 November 2012.
  10. ^ Rosenthal, Martha (2012). Human Sexuality: From Cells to Society. Cengage Learning. pp. 134–135. ISBN 9780618755714. Retrieved 17 September 2012.
  11. ^ . University of California, Santa Barbara. Archived from the original on 25 July 2011. Retrieved 6 August 2012.
  12. ^ Irving B. Weiner; W. Edward Craighead (2010). The Corsini Encyclopedia of Psychology, Volume 2. John Wiley & Sons. p. 761. ISBN 978-0470170267. Retrieved 10 November 2012.
  13. ^ Kontula, O & Mannila, E (2009). Sexual Activity and Sexual Desire. Routledge, 46(1). retrieved 20 August 2012, from here.
  14. ^ Jha, S.; Thakar, R. (2010). "Female sexual dysfunction". European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. 153 (2): 117–123. doi:10.1016/j.ejogrb.2010.06.010. PMID 20678854.
  15. ^ a b Dasgupta, Amitava (2018). The Science of Stress Management: A Guide to Best Practices for Better Well-Being. Rowman & Littlefield. p. 164. ISBN 978-1538101216.
  16. ^ Meston, Cindy M.; Buss, David M. (24 July 2007). "Why Humans Have Sex". Archives of Sexual Behavior. 36 (4): 477–507. doi:10.1007/s10508-007-9175-2. ISSN 0004-0002. PMID 17610060. S2CID 6182053.
  17. ^ Meston, Cindy M.; Kilimnik, Chelsea D.; Freihart, Bridget K.; Buss, David M. (17 February 2020). "Why Humans Have Sex: Development and Psychometric Assessment of a Short-Form Version of the YSEX? Instrument". Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy. 46 (2): 141–159. doi:10.1080/0092623X.2019.1654581. ISSN 0092-623X. PMID 31482764. S2CID 201831919.
  18. ^ "Improve your orgasm: you may have thought your sexual pleasure was the one thing that couldn't get any better. Think again — Sexual Fitness — physiology". Men's Fitness. 2002. Archived from the original on 26 May 2012.
  19. ^ "Casual sex - Define Casual sex at Dictionary.com". Dictionary.com. Retrieved 25 December 2014.
  20. ^ Holbrook, David (1972). The masks of hate: the problem of false solutions in the culture of an acquisitive society. Pergamon Press. p. 118. ISBN 978-0-08-015799-3.
  21. ^ Knee C.R.; Lonsbary C.; Canevello A.; Patrick H. (2005). "Self-determination and conflict in romantic relationships". J Pers Soc Psychol. 89 (6): 997–1009. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.89.6.997. PMID 16393030. S2CID 15591625.
  22. ^ a b c d e f g Brunell A.B.; Webster G.D. (2013). "Self-Determination and Sexual Experience in Dating Relationships". Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin. 39 (7): 970–987. doi:10.1177/0146167213485442. PMID 23613122. S2CID 25173666.
  23. ^ Greenberg, Clint E. Bruess; Oswalt, Sara B. (2016). Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality. Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 489. ISBN 978-1284081541.
  24. ^ Hillman, Jennifer L. (2013). Clinical Perspectives on Elderly Sexuality. Springer Science & Business Media. p. 34. ISBN 978-1475747799.
  25. ^ Rokach, Ami; Patel, Karishma (2021). Human Sexuality: Function, Dysfunction, Paraphilias, and Relationships. Academic Press. p. 76. ISBN 978-0128191750.
  26. ^ "Frequently asked questions to the Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction Kinsey Institute". Retrieved 6 January 2009.
  27. ^ Meece, Judith L. Child and Adolescent Development for Educators. New York: McGraw Hill, 2008. Print.
  28. ^ a b Fortenberry D.J.; Temkit M.; Tu W.; Graham C.A.; Katz B. (2005). "Daily Mood, Partner Support, Sexual Interest, and Sexual Activity Among Adolescent Women". Health Psychology (Submitted manuscript). 24 (3): 252–257. doi:10.1037/0278-6133.24.3.252. PMID 15898860.
  29. ^ a b c Vrangalova, Zhana; Savin-Williams, Ritch C. (1 August 2011). "Adolescent sexuality and positive well-being: a group-norms approach". Journal of Youth and Adolescence. 40 (8): 931–944. doi:10.1007/s10964-011-9629-7. ISSN 1573-6601. PMID 21274608. S2CID 5602332.
  30. ^ Xiaojun Chen, Xuerui Tan, Qingying Zhang, " Cardiovascular effects of sexual activity" 29 June 2021 at the Wayback Machine, Medknow Publications, December 2009
  31. ^ Roger P., Smith (2017). Netter's Obstetrics and Gynecology E-Book. pp. 31–32. ISBN 978-0323523509.
  32. ^ Alexander, Ivy M.; Johnson-Mallard, Versie; Kostas-Polston, Elizabeth A.; Fogel, Catherine Ingram; Woods, Nancy Fugate (2017). Women's Health Care in Advanced Practice Nursing, Second Edition. Springer Publishing Company. p. 390. ISBN 978-0826190048.
  33. ^ "Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)". World Health Organization. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  34. ^ King, B. (2009). Human Sexuality Today (Sixth ed.). Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education, Inc.
  35. ^ Ljubin-Sternak, Suncanica; Mestrovic, Tomislav (2014). "Review: Chlamydia trachonmatis and Genital Mycoplasmias: Pathogens with an Impact on Human Reproductive Health". Journal of Pathogens. 2014 (183167): 183167. doi:10.1155/2014/183167. PMC 4295611. PMID 25614838.
  36. ^ . University of California Santa Barbara/soc.ucsb.edu. Archived from the original on 4 June 2019. Retrieved 1 October 2013.
  37. ^ Williams gynecology. Hoffman, Barbara L., Williams, J. Whitridge (John Whitridge), 1866-1931. (2nd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Medical. 2012. ISBN 9780071716727. OCLC 779244257.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: others (link)
  38. ^   This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain: Prevention, CDC - Centers for Disease Control and (2 May 2017). "CDC - Lice". www.cdc.gov. Retrieved 4 December 2017.
  39. ^   This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain: Prevention, CDC - Centers for Disease Control and (2 May 2017). "Lice: Pubic". www.cdc.gov. Retrieved 4 December 2017.
  40. ^ Housman, Jeff; Odum, Mary (2017). Essential Concepts for Healthy Living. p. 492. ISBN 978-1284152791.
  41. ^ Baumle, Amanda K. (2013). International Handbook on the Demography of Sexuality. Springer Science & Business Media. p. 196. ISBN 978-9400755123.
  42. ^ Brown, Gavin; Browne, Kath (2016). The Routledge Research Companion to Geographies of Sex and Sexualities. p. 64. ISBN 978-1317043331.
  43. ^ Sex Offenders and Sex Offenses: Overview. From FindLaw. 19 January 2011 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved 13 October 2009.
  44. ^ . Apahelpcenter.org. Archived from the original on 28 September 2007. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  45. ^ What is the nature of same-sex relationships? 20 January 2019 at the Wayback Machine American Psychological Association, Retrieved 25 December 2014
  46. ^ "Sexual Orientation, Homosexuality, and Bisexuality". APAHelpCenter.org. Retrieved 18 September 2012.
  47. ^ . Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. Archived from the original on 1 January 2011. Retrieved 18 September 2012.
  48. ^ Rosario M.; Schrimshaw E.; Hunter J.; Braun L. (2006). "Sexual identity development among lesbian, gay, and bisexual youths: Consistency and change over time". Journal of Sex Research. 43 (1): 46–58. doi:10.1080/00224490609552298. PMC 3215279. PMID 16817067.
  49. ^ The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language 8 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine – Fourth Edition. Retrieved 9 February 2007, from Dictionary.com website
  50. ^ "What is Bisexuality?". The Bisexual Index. Retrieved 14 March 2011.
  51. ^ Soble, Alan (2006). "Bisexuality". Sex from Plato to Paglia: a philosophical encyclopedia. Vol. 1. Greenwood Publishing Group. p. 115. ISBN 978-0-313-32686-8. Retrieved 28 February 2011.
  52. ^ . UCSB SexInfo Online. University of California, Santa Barbara. 15 December 2009. Archived from the original on 21 July 2010. Retrieved 25 December 2014.
  53. ^ Diamond, L., & Butterworth, M. (2008). Questioning gender and sexual identity: Dynamic links over time. Sex Roles. Published online 29 March 2008.
  54. ^ . Oxford Dictionaries. 9 August 2012. Archived from the original on 10 May 2011. Retrieved 15 August 2012.
  55. ^ The Joy of Sex A Gourmet Guide to Lovemaking (1972) by Alex Comfort. See also ISBN 1-4000-4614-9.
  56. ^ Sue, David; Sue, Derald Wing; Sue, Diane M; Sue, Stanley (2016). Essentials of Understanding Abnormal Behavior. Cengage Learning. p. 352. ISBN 978-1305854703.
  57. ^ a b Xuemei Hu, Julie; Tarrezz Nash, Shondrah (2019). Marriage and the Family: Mirror of a Diverse Global Society. Routledge. p. 287. ISBN 978-1317279846.
  58. ^ T.G.V. (27 August 2002). "World report on violence and health – World Health Organization" (PDF). Retrieved 25 December 2014.
  59. ^ "WHO – Female genital mutilation". Retrieved 25 December 2014.
  60. ^ "BBC – Ethics: Honour Crimes". Retrieved 25 December 2014.
  61. ^ . Sexuality and Gender Relations. Archived from the original on 16 January 2000. Retrieved 25 December 2014.
  62. ^ Loue, Sana (2012). Expressive Therapies for Sexual Issues: A Social Work Perspective. Springer Science & Business Media. pp. 138–140. ISBN 978-1461439813.
  63. ^ a b c d e Hébert, Ali; Weaver, Angela (1 January 2015). "Perks, problems, and the people who play: A qualitative exploration of dominant and submissive BDSM roles". The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality. 24 (1): 49–62. doi:10.3138/cjhs.2467. S2CID 143570286.
  64. ^ Grau, Johnson (1995). "What do B&D, S&M, D&S, "top", "bottom" mean". Leather Roses. from the original on 11 January 2008. Retrieved 27 January 2008.
  65. ^ a b c Wismeijer, Andreas A.J.; Assen, Marcel A.L.M. van (1 January 2013). "Psychological Characteristics of BDSM Practitioners". The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 10 (8): 1943–1952. doi:10.1111/jsm.12192. PMID 23679066. S2CID 12148947.
  66. ^ . Eyeontheun.org. 21 August 2008. Archived from the original on 21 January 2013. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  67. ^ Ernesto Londoño (9 September 2012). . The Washington Post. DEHRAZI, Afghanistan. Archived from the original on 10 May 2013.
  68. ^ "Home". AIDSPortal. Archived from the original on 26 October 2008. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  69. ^ a b . Travel.state.gov. Archived from the original on 1 August 2013. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  70. ^ "United Nations Human Rights Website – Treaty Bodies Database – Document – Summary Record – Kuwait". Unhchr.ch. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  71. ^ "Culture of Maldives – history, people, clothing, women, beliefs, food, customs, family, social". Everyculture.com. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  72. ^ Fakim, Nora (9 August 2012). "BBC News – Morocco: Should pre-marital sex be legal?". BBC News. Bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  73. ^ "Interpol" (PDF). Interpol". Archived from the original (PDF) on 16 May 2016. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  74. ^ "2010 Human Rights Report: Mauritania". State.gov. 8 April 2011. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  75. ^ Dubai FAQs. "Education in Dubai". Dubaifaqs.com. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  76. ^ Judd, Terri (10 July 2008). "Briton faces jail for sex on Dubai beach – Middle East – World". The Independent. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  77. ^ . Reuters. 28 June 2007. Archived from the original on 15 June 2013. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  78. ^ United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. "Refworld | Women's Rights in the Middle East and North Africa – Yemen". Unhcr.org. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  79. ^ "Girl faces lashing for pre-marital sex" 5 February 2021 at the Wayback Machine, Shanghai Daily, 2012
  80. ^ Lee, "Exploring Sex Roles in African Studies", 1976
  81. ^ a b c Halpern-Feisher B.L.; Cornell J.L.; Kropp R.Y.; Tschann J.M. (2005). "Oral Versus Vaginal Sex Among Adolescents: Perceptions, Attitudes, and Behaviour". Pediatrics. 115 (4): 845–851. doi:10.1542/peds.2004-2108. PMID 15805354.
  82. ^ Waites, Matthew (2005). The Age of Consent: Young People, Sexuality and Citizenship. Palgrave Macmillan. ISBN 978-1-4039-2173-4.
  83. ^ a b . Kopple-Wolf.com. Archived from the original on 5 June 2013. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  84. ^ a b . Supreme Court of the Philippines. 21 April 1999. Archived from the original on 8 March 2019. Retrieved 25 December 2014. WHEREFORE, the judgment of the court a quoconvicting Lorenzo Andaya of the crime of rape is hereby AFFIRMED...
  85. ^ a b "G.R. No. 126545". Lawphil.net. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  86. ^ "348 SE2d 486 (Affirmed)". Lawskills.com. 15 July 1986. Retrieved 25 December 2014. The defendant appeals his conviction for aggravated sodomy (OCGA 16-6-2 (a)) on a five-year-old child victim.
  87. ^ "G.R. No. 126921". Lawphil.net. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  88. ^ "Canada's age of consent raised by 2 years". CBC News. 1 May 2008. Retrieved 22 March 2009.
  89. ^ Levesque, Roger J. R. (1999). Sexual Abuse of Children: A Human Rights Perspective. Indiana University Press. pp. 1, 5–6, 176–180. ISBN 9780253334718.
  90. ^ . Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. 1989. Archived from the original on 11 June 2010.
  91. ^ Lawrence Greenfeld (6 February 1997). "Sex Offenses and Offenders" (PDF). U.S. Department of Justice. Retrieved 25 December 2014.
  92. ^ "Prostitution Market Value". Retrieved 22 May 2010.
  93. ^ The prostitution of women and girls – Page 5; Ronald B. Flowers – 1998
  94. ^ Flowers, R. Barri (2010). Street kids: the lives of runaway and thrownaway teens. McFarland. pp. 110–112. ISBN 978-0-7864-4137-2.
  95. ^ Hope Ditmore, Melissa (2010). Prostitution and Sex Work (Historical Guides to Controversial Issues in America). Greenwood. p. 4. ISBN 978-0-313-36289-7.
  96. ^ Kelly, Sanja, Julia Breslin (2010). Women's Rights in the Middle East and North Africa: Progress Amid Resistance (Freedom in the World). Freedom House / Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. p. 556. ISBN 978-1-4422-0396-9.

Further reading

 
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Human sexual activity.
 
Wikiquote has quotations related to Human sexual activity.

March 12, 2023
human, sexual, activity, this, article, about, sexual, practices, related, social, aspects, broader, aspects, sexual, behaviour, human, sexuality, sexual, activity, sexual, behaviour, redirect, here, sexual, behaviour, other, animals, animal, sexual, behaviour. This article is about sexual practices and related social aspects For broader aspects of sexual behaviour see Human sexuality Sexual activity and sexual behaviour redirect here For sexual behaviour of other animals see Animal sexual behaviour Human sexual activity human sexual practice or human sexual behaviour is the manner in which humans experience and express their sexuality People engage in a variety of sexual acts ranging from activities done alone e g masturbation to acts with another person e g sexual intercourse non penetrative sex oral sex etc 1 in varying patterns of frequency for a wide variety of reasons Sexual activity usually results in sexual arousal and physiological changes in the aroused person some of which are pronounced while others are more subtle Sexual activity may also include conduct and activities which are intended to arouse the sexual interest of another or enhance the sex life of another such as strategies to find or attract partners courtship and display behaviour or personal interactions between individuals for instance foreplay or BDSM Sexual activity may follow sexual arousal Human sexual activity has sociological cognitive emotional behavioural and biological aspects these include personal bonding sharing emotions and the physiology of the reproductive system sex drive sexual intercourse and sexual behaviour in all its forms In some cultures sexual activity is considered acceptable only within marriage while premarital and extramarital sex are taboo Some sexual activities are illegal either universally or in some countries or subnational jurisdictions while some are considered contrary to the norms of certain societies or cultures Two examples that are criminal offences in most jurisdictions are sexual assault and sexual activity with a person below the local age of consent Contents 1 Types 2 Mating strategies 3 Stages of physiological arousal during sexual stimulation 4 Psychological aspects 4 1 Motivations 4 2 Self determination theory 5 Frequency 5 1 Adolescents 6 Health and safety 6 1 Unwanted pregnancy 6 2 Sexually transmitted infections 6 3 Aging 7 Orientations and society 7 1 Heterosexuality 7 2 Homosexuality 7 3 Bisexuality and pansexuality 8 Other social aspects 8 1 General attitudes 8 2 Religious and ethical 8 3 Gender roles and the expression of sexuality 9 BDSM 10 Legal issues 10 1 Same sex laws 10 2 Sex outside marriage 10 3 Minimum age of sexual activity age of consent 10 4 Incestuous relationships 10 5 Sexual abuse 10 6 Prostitution and survival sex 11 See also 12 References 13 Further readingTypesSexual activity can be classified in a number of ways The practices may be preceded by or consist solely of foreplay 2 Acts which involve one person also called autoeroticism may include sexual fantasy or masturbation 2 If two or more people are involved they may engage in vaginal sex anal sex oral sex or mutual masturbation 2 Penetrative sex between two people may be described as sexual intercourse but definitions vary If there are more than two participants in a sex act it may be referred to as group sex Autoerotic sexual activity can involve use of dildos vibrators butt plugs and other sex toys though these devices can also be used with a partner Sexual activity can be classified into the gender and sexual orientation of the participants as well as by the relationship of the participants The relationships can be ones of marriage intimate partners casual sex partners or anonymous Sexual activity can be regarded as conventional or as alternative involving for example fetishism or BDSM activities 3 4 Fetishism can take many forms including the desire for certain body parts partialism such as breasts navels or feet 5 The object of desire can be shoes boots lingerie clothing leather or rubber items Some non conventional autoerotic practices can be dangerous These include autoerotic asphyxiation and self bondage 6 The potential for injury or even death that exists while engaging in the partnered versions of these fetishes choking and bondage respectively becomes drastically increased in the autoerotic case due to the isolation and lack of assistance in the event of a problem 6 Sexual activity that is consensual is sexual activity in which both or all participants agree to take part and are of the age that they can consent 7 If sexual activity takes place under force or duress it is considered rape or another form of sexual assault In different cultures and countries various sexual activities may be lawful or illegal in regards to the age gender marital status or other factors of the participants or otherwise contrary to social norms or generally accepted sexual morals 7 Mating strategiesMain article Human mating strategies See also Animal sexual behaviour In evolutionary psychology and behavioral ecology human mating strategies are a set of behaviors used by individuals to attract select and retain mates Mating strategies overlap with reproductive strategies which encompass a broader set of behaviors involving the timing of reproduction and the trade off between quantity and quality of offspring see life history theory Relative to other animals human mating strategies are unique in their relationship with cultural variables such as the institution of marriage 8 Humans may seek out individuals with the intention of forming a long term intimate relationship marriage casual relationship or friendship The human desire for companionship is one of the strongest human drives It is an innate feature of human nature and may be related to the sex drive The human mating process encompasses the social and cultural processes whereby one person may meet another to assess suitability the courtship process and the process of forming an interpersonal relationship Commonalities however can be found between humans and nonhuman animals in mating behavior Stages of physiological arousal during sexual stimulation This Indian Kama sutra illustration which shows a woman on top of a man depicts the male erection which is one of the physiological responses to sexual arousal for men The physiological responses during sexual stimulation are fairly similar for both men and women and there are four phases 9 During the excitement phase muscle tension and blood flow increase in and around the sexual organs heart and respiration increase and blood pressure rises Men and women experience a sex flush on the skin of the upper body and face Typically a woman s vagina becomes lubricated and her clitoris becomes swollen 9 A man s penis will become erect During the plateau phase heart rate and muscle tension increase further A man s urinary bladder closes to prevent urine from mixing with semen A woman s clitoris may withdraw slightly and there is more lubrication outer swelling and muscles tighten and reduction of diameter 9 During the orgasm phase breathing becomes extremely rapid and the pelvic muscles begin a series of rhythmic contractions Both men and women experience quick cycles of muscle contraction of lower pelvic muscles and women often experience uterine and vaginal contractions this experience can be described as intensely pleasurable but roughly 15 of women never experience orgasm and half report having faked it 9 A large genetic component is associated with how often women experience orgasm 9 During the resolution phase muscles relax blood pressure drops and the body returns to its resting state Though generally reported that women do not experience a refractory period and thus can experience an additional orgasm or multiple orgasms soon after the first 10 11 some sources state that both men and women experience a refractory period because women may also experience a period after orgasm in which further sexual stimulation does not produce excitement 9 12 This period may last from minutes to days and is typically longer for men than women 9 Sexual dysfunction is the inability to react emotionally or physically to sexual stimulation in a way projected of the average healthy person it can affect different stages in the sexual response cycles which are desire excitement and orgasm 13 In the media sexual dysfunction is often associated with men but in actuality it is more commonly observed in females 43 percent than males 31 percent 14 Psychological aspectsMain article Sexology Sexual activity can lower blood pressure and overall stress levels 15 It serves to release tension elevate mood and possibly create a profound sense of relaxation especially in the postcoital period From a biochemical perspective sex causes the release of oxytocin and endorphins and boosts the immune system 15 Motivations Pity sex redirects here For the American rock band see Pity Sex People engage in sexual activity for any of a multitude of possible reasons Although the primary evolutionary purpose of sexual activity is reproduction research on college students suggested that people have sex for four general reasons physical attraction as a means to an end to increase emotional connection and to alleviate insecurity 16 17 Most people engage in sexual activity because of pleasure they derive from the arousal of their sexuality especially if they can achieve orgasm Sexual arousal can also be experienced from foreplay and flirting and from fetish or BDSM activities 18 or other erotic activities Most commonly people engage in sexual activity because of the sexual desire generated by a person to whom they feel sexual attraction but they may engage in sexual activity for the physical satisfaction they achieve in the absence of attraction for another as in the case of casual or social sex 19 At times a person may engage in a sexual activity solely for the sexual pleasure of their partner such as because of an obligation they may have to the partner or because of love sympathy or pity they may feel for the partner A person may engage in sexual activity for purely monetary considerations or to obtain some advantage from either the partner or the activity A man and woman may engage in sexual intercourse with the objective of conception Some people engage in hate sex which occurs between two people who strongly dislike or annoy each other It is related to the idea that opposition between two people can heighten sexual tension attraction and interest 20 Self determination theory Research has found that people also engage in sexual activity for reasons associated with self determination theory The self determination theory can be applied to a sexual relationship when the participants have positive feelings associated with the relationship These participants do not feel guilty or coerced into the partnership 21 Researchers have proposed the model of self determined sexual motivation The purpose of this model is to connect self determination and sexual motivation 22 This model has helped to explain how people are sexually motivated when involved in self determined dating relationships This model also links the positive outcomes satisfying the need for autonomy competence and relatedness gained from sexual motivations 22 According to the completed research associated with this model it was found that people of both sexes who engaged in sexual activity for self determined motivation had more positive psychological well being 22 While engaging in sexual activity for self determined reasons the participants also had a higher need for fulfillment When this need was satisfied they felt better about themselves This was correlated with greater closeness to their partner and higher overall satisfaction in their relationship 22 Though both sexes engaged in sexual activity for self determined reasons there were some differences found between males and females It was concluded that females had more motivation than males to engage in sexual activity for self determined reasons 22 Females also had higher satisfaction and relationship quality than males did from the sexual activity 22 Overall research concluded that psychological well being sexual motivation and sexual satisfaction were all positively correlated when dating couples partook in sexual activity for self determined reasons 22 FrequencySee also Sexually active life expectancy The frequency of sexual activity might range from zero to 15 or 20 times a week 23 Frequency of intercourse tends to decline with age 24 Some post menopausal women experience declines in frequency of sexual intercourse while others do not 25 According to the Kinsey Institute the average frequency of sexual intercourse in the US for individuals who have partners is 112 times per year age 18 29 86 times per year age 30 39 and 69 times per year age 40 49 26 Adolescents Further information Adolescent sexuality The age at which adolescents tend to become sexually active varies considerably between different cultures and from time to time See Prevalence of virginity The first sexual act of a child or adolescent is sometimes referred to as the sexualization of the child and may be considered as a milestone or a change of status as the loss of virginity or innocence Youth are legally free to have intercourse after they reach the age of consent A 1999 survey of students indicated that approximately 40 of ninth graders across the United States report having had sexual intercourse This figure rises with each grade Males are more sexually active than females at each of the grade levels surveyed Sexual activity of young adolescents differs in ethnicity as well A higher percent of African American and Hispanic adolescents are shown to be more sexually active than White adolescents 27 Research on sexual frequency has also been conducted solely on female adolescents who engage in sexual activity Female adolescents tended to engage in more sexual activity due to positive mood In female teenagers engaging in sexual activity was directly positively correlated with being older greater sexual activity in the previous week or prior day and more positive mood the previous day or the same day as the sexual activity occurred 28 Decreased sexual activity was associated with prior or current day negative mood or menstruation 28 Although opinions differ others who suggest that sexual activity is an essential part of humans and that teenagers need to experience sex According to a research study sexual experiences help teenagers understand pleasure and satisfaction 29 In relation to hedonic and eudaimonic well being it stated that teenagers can positively benefit from sexual activity The cross sectional study was conducted in 2008 and 2009 at a rural upstate New York community Teenagers who had their first sexual experience at age 16 revealed a higher well being than those who were sexually inexperienced or who were first sexually active at a later age of 17 29 Furthermore teenagers who had their first sexual experience at age 15 or younger or who had many sexual partners were not negatively affected and did not have associated lower well being 29 Health and safetySexual activity is an innately physiological function 30 but like other physical activity it comes with risks There are four main types of risks that may arise from sexual activity unwanted pregnancy contracting a sexually transmitted infection STI STD physical injury and psychological injury Unwanted pregnancy Main article Unintended pregnancy Any sexual activity that involves the introduction of semen into a woman s vagina such as during sexual intercourse or contact of semen with her vulva may result in a pregnancy To reduce the risk of unintended pregnancies some people who engage in penile vaginal sex may use contraception such as birth control pills a condom diaphragms spermicides hormonal contraception or sterilization 31 The effectiveness of the various contraceptive methods in avoiding pregnancy varies considerably and depends on the method rather than the user 32 Sexually transmitted infections Main article Sexually transmitted infection A rolled up male condom Sexual activity that involves skin to skin contact exposure to an infected person s bodily fluids or mucous membranes 33 carries the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection People may not be able to detect that their sexual partner has one or more STIs for example if they are asymptomatic show no symptoms 34 35 The risk of STIs can be reduced by safe sex practices such as using condoms Both partners may opt to be tested for STIs before engaging in sex 36 The exchange of body fluids is not necessary to contract an infestation of crab lice Crab lice typically are found attached to hair in the pubic area but sometimes are found on coarse hair elsewhere on the body for example eyebrows eyelashes beard mustache chest armpits etc Pubic lice infestations pthiriasis are spread through direct contact with someone who is infested with the louse 37 38 39 Some STIs like HIV AIDS can also be contracted by using IV drug needles after their use by an infected person as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding 40 Aging See also Sexuality in older age Factors such as biological and psychological factors diseases mental conditions boredom with the relationship and widowhood have been found to contribute to a decrease in sexual interest and activity in old age but older age does not eliminate the ability to enjoy sexual activity 41 Orientations and societyMain article Sexual orientation Heterosexuality Main article Heterosexuality Sexual intercourse in the missionary position Heterosexuality is the romantic or sexual attraction to the opposite sex Heterosexual practices are institutionally privileged in most countries 42 In some countries mostly those where religion has a strong influence on social policy marriage laws serve the purpose of encouraging people to have sex only within marriage Sodomy laws have been used to discourage same sex sexual practices but they may also affect opposite sex sexual practices Laws also ban adults from committing sexual abuse committing sexual acts with anyone under an age of consent performing sexual activities in public and engaging in sexual activities for money prostitution Though these laws cover both same sex and opposite sex sexual activities they may differ in regard to punishment and may be more frequently or exclusively enforced on those who engage in same sex sexual activities 43 Different sex sexual practices may be monogamous serially monogamous or polyamorous and depending on the definition of sexual practice abstinent or autoerotic including masturbation Additionally different religious and political movements have tried to influence or control changes in sexual practices including courting and marriage though in most countries changes occur at a slow rate Homosexuality Main article Homosexuality See also Gay sexual practices and Lesbian sexual practices An Ottoman miniature from the book Sawaqub al Manaquib depicting homosexuality Homosexuality is the romantic or sexual attraction to the same sex People with a homosexual orientation can express their sexuality in a variety of ways and may or may not express it in their behaviors 44 Research indicates that many gay men and lesbians want and succeed in having committed and durable relationships For example survey data indicate that between 40 and 60 of gay men and between 45 and 80 of lesbians are currently involved in a romantic relationship 45 It is possible for a person whose sexual identity is mainly heterosexual to engage in sexual acts with people of the same sex Gay and lesbian people who pretend to be heterosexual are often referred to as being closeted hiding their sexuality in the closet Closet case is a derogatory term used to refer to people who hide their sexuality Making that orientation public can be called coming out of the closet in the case of voluntary disclosure or outing in the case of disclosure by others against the subject s wishes or without their knowledge Among some communities called men on the DL or down low same sex sexual behavior is sometimes viewed as solely for physical pleasure Men who have sex with men as well as women who have sex with women or men on the down low may engage in sex acts with members of the same sex while continuing sexual and romantic relationships with the opposite sex A 1925 Gerda Wegener painting Les delassements d Eros The recreations of Eros of two women engaged in sexual activity in bed People who engage exclusively in same sex sexual practices may not identify themselves as gay or lesbian In sex segregated environments individuals may seek relationships with others of their own gender known as situational homosexuality In other cases some people may experiment or explore their sexuality with same or different sex sexual activity before defining their sexual identity Despite stereotypes and common misconceptions there are no forms of sexual acts exclusive to same sex sexual behavior that cannot also be found in opposite sex sexual behavior except those involving the meeting of the genitalia between same sex partners tribadism generally vulva to vulva rubbing commonly known by its scissoring position and frot generally penis to penis rubbing Bisexuality and pansexuality Main articles Bisexuality and Pansexuality People who have a romantic or sexual attraction to both sexes are referred to as bisexual 46 47 People who have a distinct but not exclusive preference for one sex gender over the other may also identify themselves as bisexual 48 Like gay and lesbian individuals bisexual people who pretend to be heterosexual are often referred to as being closeted Pansexuality also referred to as omnisexuality 49 may or may not be subsumed under bisexuality with some sources stating that bisexuality encompasses sexual or romantic attraction to all gender identities 50 51 Pansexuality is characterized by the potential for aesthetic attraction romantic love or sexual desire towards people without regard for their gender identity or biological sex 52 Some pansexuals suggest that they are gender blind that gender and sex are insignificant or irrelevant in determining whether they will be sexually attracted to others 53 As defined in the Oxford English Dictionary pansexuality encompasses all kinds of sexuality not limited or inhibited in sexual choice with regards to gender or practice 54 Other social aspectsGeneral attitudes Alex Comfort and others propose three potential social aspects of sexual intercourse in humans which are not mutually exclusive reproductive relational and recreational 55 The development of the contraceptive pill and other highly effective forms of contraception in the mid and late 20th century has increased people s ability to segregate these three functions which still overlap a great deal and in complex patterns For example A fertile couple may have intercourse while using contraception to experience sexual pleasure recreational and also as a means of emotional intimacy relational thus deepening their bonding making their relationship more stable and more capable of sustaining children in the future deferred reproductive This same couple may emphasize different aspects of intercourse on different occasions being playful during one episode of intercourse recreational experiencing deep emotional connection on another occasion relational and later after discontinuing contraception seeking to achieve pregnancy reproductive or more likely reproductive and relational citation needed Religious and ethical Main articles Sexual morality Religion and sexuality and Norm sociology Khajuraho Hindu and Jain temple complex is famous for erotic arts Human sexual activity is generally influenced by social rules that are culturally specific and vary widely 56 Sexual ethics morals and norms relate to issues including deception honesty legality fidelity and consent Some activities known as sex crimes in some locations are illegal in some jurisdictions including those conducted between or among consenting and competent adults examples include sodomy law and adult adult incest Some people who are in a relationship but want to hide polygamous activity possibly of opposite sexual orientation from their partner may solicit consensual sexual activity with others through personal contacts online chat rooms or advertising in select media Swinging involves singles or partners in a committed relationship engaging in sexual activities with others as a recreational or social activity 57 The increasing popularity of swinging is regarded by some as arising from the upsurge in sexual activity during the sexual revolution of the 1960s Some people engage in various sexual activities as a business transaction When this involves having sex with or performing certain actual sexual acts for another person in exchange for money or something of value it is called prostitution Other aspects of the adult industry include phone sex operators strip clubs and pornography Gender roles and the expression of sexuality Main articles Sexual identity Gender identity and Gender roles Social gender roles can influence sexual behavior as well as the reaction of individuals and communities to certain incidents the World Health Organization states that Sexual violence is also more likely to occur where beliefs in male sexual entitlement are strong where gender roles are more rigid and in countries experiencing high rates of other types of violence 58 Some societies such as those where the concepts of family honor and female chastity are very strong may practice violent control of female sexuality through practices such as honor killings and female genital mutilation 59 60 The relation between gender equality and sexual expression is recognized and promotion of equity between men and women is crucial for attaining sexual and reproductive health as stated by the UN International Conference on Population and Development Program of Action 61 Human sexuality and gender relations are closely interrelated and together affect the ability of men and women to achieve and maintain sexual health and manage their reproductive lives Equal relationships between men and women in matters of sexual relations and reproduction including full respect for the physical integrity of the human body require mutual respect and willingness to accept responsibility for the consequences of sexual behaviour Responsible sexual behaviour sensitivity and equity in gender relations particularly when instilled during the formative years enhance and promote respectful and harmonious partnerships between men and women BDSMMain article BDSM A man handcuffed to a bed and blindfolded BDSM is a variety of erotic practices or roleplaying involving bondage dominance and submission sadomasochism and other interpersonal dynamics 57 Given the wide range of practices some of which may be engaged in by people who do not consider themselves as practicing BDSM inclusion in the BDSM community or subculture usually being dependent on self identification and shared experience 62 BDSM communities generally welcome anyone with a non normative streak who identifies with the community this may include cross dressers extreme body modification enthusiasts animal players latex or rubber aficionados and others B D bondage and discipline is a part of BDSM Bondage includes the restraint of the body or mind 63 D s means Dominant and submissive A Dominant is one who takes control of a person who wishes to surrender control and a submissive is one who surrenders control to a person who wishes to take control 63 S M sadism and masochism is the other part of BDSM A sadist is an individual who takes pleasure in the pain or humiliation of others and a masochist is an individual who takes pleasure from their own pain or humiliation 63 Unlike the usual power neutral relationships and play styles commonly followed by couples activities and relationships within a BDSM context are often characterized by the participants taking on complementary but unequal roles thus the idea of informed consent of both the partners becomes essential Participants who exert dominance sexual or otherwise over their partners are known as Dominants or Tops while participants who take the passive receiving or obedient role are known as submissives or bottoms These terms are sometimes shortened so that a dominant person may be referred to as a Dom a woman may choose to use the feminine Domme and a submissive may be referred to as a sub Individuals who can change between Top Dominant and bottom submissive roles whether from relationship to relationship or within a given relationship are known as switches The precise definition of roles and self identification is a common subject of debate within the community 64 In a 2013 study researchers stated that BDSM is a sexual act where participants play role games use restraint use power exchange use suppression and pain is sometimes involved depending on individual s 65 The study serves to challenge the widespread notion that BDSM could be in some way linked to psychopathology According to the findings one who participates in BDSM may have greater strength socially and mentally as well as greater independence than those who do not practice BDSM 65 It suggests that people who participate in BDSM play have higher subjective well being and that this might be due to the fact that BDSM play requires extensive communication Before any act occurs the partners must discuss their agreement of their relationship They discuss how long the play will last the intensity their actions what each participant needs or desires and what if any sexual activities may be included All acts must be consensual and pleasurable to both parties 65 In a 2015 study interviewed BDSM participants have mentioned that the activities have helped to create higher levels of connection intimacy trust and communication between partners 63 The study suggests that Dominants and submissives exchange control for each other s pleasure and to satisfy a need The participants have remarked that they enjoy pleasing their partner in any way they can and many surveyed have felt that this is one of the best things about BDSM It gives a submissive pleasure to do things in general for their Dominant while a Dominant enjoys making their encounters all about their submissive and enjoy doing things that makes their submissive happy The findings indicate that the surveyed submissives and Dominants found BDSM makes play more pleasurable and fun The participants have also mentioned improvements in their personal growth romantic relationships sense of community and self the dominant s confidence and their coping with everyday things by giving them a psychological release 63 Legal issuesMain article Sex and the law There are many laws and social customs which prohibit or in some way affect sexual activities These laws and customs vary from country to country and have varied over time They cover for example a prohibition to non consensual sex to sex outside marriage to sexual activity in public besides many others Many of these restrictions are non controversial but some have been the subject of public debate Most societies consider it a serious crime to force someone to engage in sexual acts or to engage in sexual activity with someone who does not consent This is called sexual assault and if sexual penetration occurs it is called rape the most serious kind of sexual assault The details of this distinction may vary among different legal jurisdictions Also what constitutes effective consent in sexual matters varies from culture to culture and is frequently debated Laws regulating the minimum age at which a person can consent to have sex age of consent are frequently the subject of debate as is adolescent sexual behavior in general Some societies have forced marriage where consent may not be required Same sex laws Main article LGBT rights by country or territory Many locales have laws that limit or prohibit same sex sexual activity Sex outside marriage In the West sex before marriage is not illegal example needed There are social taboos and many religions condemn pre marital sex In many Muslim countries such as Saudi Arabia Pakistan 66 Afghanistan 67 68 69 Iran 69 Kuwait 70 Maldives 71 Morocco 72 Oman 73 Mauritania 74 United Arab Emirates 75 76 Sudan 77 Yemen 78 any form of sexual activity outside marriage is illegal Those found guilty especially women may be forced to wed the sexual partner publicly beaten or stoned to death 79 In many African and native tribes sexual activity is not viewed as a privilege or right of a married couple but rather as the unification of bodies and is thus not frowned upon 80 Other studies have analyzed the changing attitudes about sex that American adolescents have outside marriage Adolescents were asked how they felt about oral and vaginal sex in relation to their health social and emotional well being Overall teenagers felt that oral sex was viewed as more socially positive amongst their demographic 81 Results stated that teenagers believed that oral sex for dating and non dating adolescents was less threatening to their overall values and beliefs than vaginal sex was 81 When asked teenagers who participated in the research viewed oral sex as more acceptable to their peers and their personal values than vaginal sex 81 Minimum age of sexual activity age of consent Main article Age of consent The laws of each jurisdiction set the minimum age at which a young person is allowed to engage in sexual activity 82 This age of consent is typically between 14 and 18 years but laws vary In many jurisdictions age of consent is a person s mental or functional age 83 84 85 As a result those above the set age of consent may still be considered unable to legally consent due to mental immaturity 83 84 85 86 87 Many jurisdictions regard any sexual activity by an adult involving a child as child sexual abuse Age of consent may vary by the type of sexual act the sex of the actors or other restrictions such as abuse of a position of trust Some jurisdictions also make allowances for young people engaged in sexual acts with each other 88 Incestuous relationships Main article Legality of incest Most jurisdictions prohibit sexual activity between certain close relatives These laws vary to some extent such acts are called incestuous Incest laws may involve restrictions on marriage rights which also vary between jurisdictions When incest involves an adult and a child it is considered to be a form of child sexual abuse 89 90 Sexual abuse Main articles Sexual abuse Rape and Sexual assault Non consensual sexual activity or subjecting an unwilling person to witnessing a sexual activity are forms of sexual abuse as well as in many countries certain non consensual paraphilias such as frotteurism telephone scatophilia indecent phonecalls and non consensual exhibitionism and voyeurism known as indecent exposure and peeping tom respectively 91 Prostitution and survival sex Main article Prostitution People sometimes exchange sex for money or access to other resources Work takes place under many varied circumstances The person who receives payment for sexual services is known as a prostitute and the person who receives such services is referred to by a multitude of terms such as being a client Prostitution is one of the branches of the sex industry The legal status of prostitution varies from country to country from being a punishable crime to a regulated profession Estimates place the annual revenue generated from the global prostitution industry to be over 100 billion 92 Prostitution is sometimes referred to as the world s oldest profession 93 Prostitution may be a voluntary individual activity or facilitated or forced by pimps Survival sex is a form of prostitution engaged in by people in need usually when homeless or otherwise disadvantaged people trade sex for food a place to sleep or other basic needs or for drugs 94 The term is used by sex trade and poverty researchers and aid workers 95 96 See also Human sexuality portalChild sexuality Erotic plasticity History of human sexuality Human female sexuality Human male sexuality Mechanics of human sexuality Orgasm control Orgastic potency Sexual activity during pregnancy Sociosexual orientation Transgender sexualityReferences Walker Audrey Schlozman Steven Alpert Jonathan 2021 Introduction to Psychiatry Preclinical Foundations and Clinical Essentials Cambridge University Press p 454 ISBN 978 0521279840 a b c Greenberg Jerrold S Bruess Clint E Bruess 2016 Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality Jones amp Bartlett Publishers p 545 ISBN 978 1284081541 Milton Martin 2010 Therapy and Beyond Counselling Psychology Contributions to Therapeutic and Social Issues John Wiley amp Sons p 211 ISBN 978 0470797587 Dodd SJ 2020 Sex Positive Social Work Columbia University Press p 108 ISBN 978 0231547666 Chand Suresh 2019 Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology 1st Edition Elsevier Health Sciences p 272 ISBN 978 8131254585 a b The Certified Criminal Investigator Body of Knowledge CRC Press 2017 p 447 ISBN 978 1498752060 a b Cowling Mark Reynolds Paul 2017 Making Sense of Sexual Consent Routledge pp 1 304 ISBN 978 1351920711 Low B S 2007 Ecological and socio cultural impacts on mating and marriage Archived 31 December 2022 at the Wayback Machine Oxford Handbook of Evolutionary Psychology 449 a b c d e f g Daniel L Schacter Daniel T Gilbert Daniel M Wegner 2010 Psychology Macmillan pp 335 336 ISBN 978 1429237192 Retrieved 10 November 2012 Rosenthal Martha 2012 Human Sexuality From Cells to Society Cengage Learning pp 134 135 ISBN 9780618755714 Retrieved 17 September 2012 The Sexual Response Cycle University of California Santa Barbara Archived from the original on 25 July 2011 Retrieved 6 August 2012 Irving B Weiner W Edward Craighead 2010 The Corsini Encyclopedia of Psychology Volume 2 John Wiley amp Sons p 761 ISBN 978 0470170267 Retrieved 10 November 2012 Kontula O amp Mannila E 2009 Sexual Activity and Sexual Desire Routledge 46 1 retrieved 20 August 2012 from here Jha S Thakar R 2010 Female sexual dysfunction European Journal of Obstetrics amp Gynecology and Reproductive Biology 153 2 117 123 doi 10 1016 j ejogrb 2010 06 010 PMID 20678854 a b Dasgupta Amitava 2018 The Science of Stress Management A Guide to Best Practices for Better Well Being Rowman amp Littlefield p 164 ISBN 978 1538101216 Meston Cindy M Buss David M 24 July 2007 Why Humans Have Sex Archives of Sexual Behavior 36 4 477 507 doi 10 1007 s10508 007 9175 2 ISSN 0004 0002 PMID 17610060 S2CID 6182053 Meston Cindy M Kilimnik Chelsea D Freihart Bridget K Buss David M 17 February 2020 Why Humans Have Sex Development and Psychometric Assessment of a Short Form Version of the YSEX Instrument Journal of Sex amp Marital Therapy 46 2 141 159 doi 10 1080 0092623X 2019 1654581 ISSN 0092 623X PMID 31482764 S2CID 201831919 Improve your orgasm you may have thought your sexual pleasure was the one thing that couldn t get any better Think again Sexual Fitness physiology Men s Fitness 2002 Archived from the original on 26 May 2012 Casual sex Define Casual sex at Dictionary com Dictionary com Retrieved 25 December 2014 Holbrook David 1972 The masks of hate the problem of false solutions in the culture of an acquisitive society Pergamon Press p 118 ISBN 978 0 08 015799 3 Knee C R Lonsbary C Canevello A Patrick H 2005 Self determination and conflict in romantic relationships J Pers Soc Psychol 89 6 997 1009 doi 10 1037 0022 3514 89 6 997 PMID 16393030 S2CID 15591625 a b c d e f g Brunell A B Webster G D 2013 Self Determination and Sexual Experience in Dating Relationships Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin 39 7 970 987 doi 10 1177 0146167213485442 PMID 23613122 S2CID 25173666 Greenberg Clint E Bruess Oswalt Sara B 2016 Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality Jones amp Bartlett Publishers p 489 ISBN 978 1284081541 Hillman Jennifer L 2013 Clinical Perspectives on Elderly Sexuality Springer Science amp Business Media p 34 ISBN 978 1475747799 Rokach Ami Patel Karishma 2021 Human Sexuality Function Dysfunction Paraphilias and Relationships Academic Press p 76 ISBN 978 0128191750 Frequently asked questions to the Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex Gender and Reproduction Kinsey Institute Retrieved 6 January 2009 Meece Judith L Child and Adolescent Development for Educators New York McGraw Hill 2008 Print a b Fortenberry D J Temkit M Tu W Graham C A Katz B 2005 Daily Mood Partner Support Sexual Interest and Sexual Activity Among Adolescent Women Health Psychology Submitted manuscript 24 3 252 257 doi 10 1037 0278 6133 24 3 252 PMID 15898860 a b c Vrangalova Zhana Savin Williams Ritch C 1 August 2011 Adolescent sexuality and positive well being a group norms approach Journal of Youth and Adolescence 40 8 931 944 doi 10 1007 s10964 011 9629 7 ISSN 1573 6601 PMID 21274608 S2CID 5602332 Xiaojun Chen Xuerui Tan Qingying Zhang Cardiovascular effects of sexual activity Archived 29 June 2021 at the Wayback Machine Medknow Publications December 2009 Roger P Smith 2017 Netter s Obstetrics and Gynecology E Book pp 31 32 ISBN 978 0323523509 Alexander Ivy M Johnson Mallard Versie Kostas Polston Elizabeth A Fogel Catherine Ingram Woods Nancy Fugate 2017 Women s Health Care in Advanced Practice Nursing Second Edition Springer Publishing Company p 390 ISBN 978 0826190048 Sexually transmitted infections STIs World Health Organization Retrieved 7 April 2015 King B 2009 Human Sexuality Today Sixth ed Upper Saddle River Pearson Education Inc Ljubin Sternak Suncanica Mestrovic Tomislav 2014 Review Chlamydia trachonmatis and Genital Mycoplasmias Pathogens with an Impact on Human Reproductive Health Journal of Pathogens 2014 183167 183167 doi 10 1155 2014 183167 PMC 4295611 PMID 25614838 An Overview of STIs University of California Santa Barbara soc ucsb edu Archived from the original on 4 June 2019 Retrieved 1 October 2013 Williams gynecology Hoffman Barbara L Williams J Whitridge John Whitridge 1866 1931 2nd ed New York McGraw Hill Medical 2012 ISBN 9780071716727 OCLC 779244257 a href Template Cite book html title Template Cite book cite book a CS1 maint others link This article incorporates text from this source which is in the public domain Prevention CDC Centers for Disease Control and 2 May 2017 CDC Lice www cdc gov Retrieved 4 December 2017 This article incorporates text from this source which is in the public domain Prevention CDC Centers for Disease Control and 2 May 2017 Lice Pubic www cdc gov Retrieved 4 December 2017 Housman Jeff Odum Mary 2017 Essential Concepts for Healthy Living p 492 ISBN 978 1284152791 Baumle Amanda K 2013 International Handbook on the Demography of Sexuality Springer Science amp Business Media p 196 ISBN 978 9400755123 Brown Gavin Browne Kath 2016 The Routledge Research Companion to Geographies of Sex and Sexualities p 64 ISBN 978 1317043331 Sex Offenders and Sex Offenses Overview From FindLaw Archived 19 January 2011 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved 13 October 2009 Psychology Help Center Apahelpcenter org Archived from the original on 28 September 2007 Retrieved 30 June 2013 What is the nature of same sex relationships Archived 20 January 2019 at the Wayback Machine American Psychological Association Retrieved 25 December 2014 Sexual Orientation Homosexuality and Bisexuality APAHelpCenter org Retrieved 18 September 2012 GLAAD Media Reference Guide Gay amp Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation Archived from the original on 1 January 2011 Retrieved 18 September 2012 Rosario M Schrimshaw E Hunter J Braun L 2006 Sexual identity development among lesbian gay and bisexual youths Consistency and change over time Journal of Sex Research 43 1 46 58 doi 10 1080 00224490609552298 PMC 3215279 PMID 16817067 The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language Archived 8 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine Fourth Edition Retrieved 9 February 2007 from Dictionary com website What is Bisexuality The Bisexual Index Retrieved 14 March 2011 Soble Alan 2006 Bisexuality Sex from Plato to Paglia a philosophical encyclopedia Vol 1 Greenwood Publishing Group p 115 ISBN 978 0 313 32686 8 Retrieved 28 February 2011 Pansexuality UCSB SexInfo Online University of California Santa Barbara 15 December 2009 Archived from the original on 21 July 2010 Retrieved 25 December 2014 Diamond L amp Butterworth M 2008 Questioning gender and sexual identity Dynamic links over time Sex Roles Published online 29 March 2008 Definition of pansexual Oxford Dictionaries British amp World English Oxford Dictionaries 9 August 2012 Archived from the original on 10 May 2011 Retrieved 15 August 2012 The Joy of Sex A Gourmet Guide to Lovemaking 1972 by Alex Comfort See also ISBN 1 4000 4614 9 Sue David Sue Derald Wing Sue Diane M Sue Stanley 2016 Essentials of Understanding Abnormal Behavior Cengage Learning p 352 ISBN 978 1305854703 a b Xuemei Hu Julie Tarrezz Nash Shondrah 2019 Marriage and the Family Mirror of a Diverse Global Society Routledge p 287 ISBN 978 1317279846 T G V 27 August 2002 World report on violence and health World Health Organization PDF Retrieved 25 December 2014 WHO Female genital mutilation Retrieved 25 December 2014 BBC Ethics Honour Crimes Retrieved 25 December 2014 Paragraph 7 34 of the ICPD Programme of Action Sexuality and Gender Relations Archived from the original on 16 January 2000 Retrieved 25 December 2014 Loue Sana 2012 Expressive Therapies for Sexual Issues A Social Work Perspective Springer Science amp Business Media pp 138 140 ISBN 978 1461439813 a b c d e Hebert Ali Weaver Angela 1 January 2015 Perks problems and the people who play A qualitative exploration of dominant and submissive BDSM roles The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality 24 1 49 62 doi 10 3138 cjhs 2467 S2CID 143570286 Grau Johnson 1995 What do B amp D S amp M D amp S top bottom mean Leather Roses Archived from the original on 11 January 2008 Retrieved 27 January 2008 a b c Wismeijer Andreas A J Assen Marcel A L M van 1 January 2013 Psychological Characteristics of BDSM Practitioners The Journal of Sexual Medicine 10 8 1943 1952 doi 10 1111 jsm 12192 PMID 23679066 S2CID 12148947 Human Rights Voices Searching for Freedom Chained by the Law Eyeontheun org 21 August 2008 Archived from the original on 21 January 2013 Retrieved 30 June 2013 Ernesto Londono 9 September 2012 Afghanistan sees rise in dancing boys exploitation The Washington Post DEHRAZI Afghanistan Archived from the original on 10 May 2013 Home AIDSPortal Archived from the original on 26 October 2008 Retrieved 30 June 2013 a b Iran Travel state gov Archived from the original on 1 August 2013 Retrieved 30 June 2013 United Nations Human Rights Website Treaty Bodies Database Document Summary Record Kuwait Unhchr ch Retrieved 30 June 2013 Culture of Maldives history people clothing women beliefs food customs family social Everyculture com Retrieved 30 June 2013 Fakim Nora 9 August 2012 BBC News Morocco Should pre marital sex be legal BBC News Bbc co uk Retrieved 30 June 2013 Interpol PDF Interpol Archived from the original PDF on 16 May 2016 Retrieved 30 June 2013 2010 Human Rights Report Mauritania State gov 8 April 2011 Retrieved 30 June 2013 Dubai FAQs Education in Dubai Dubaifaqs com Retrieved 30 June 2013 Judd Terri 10 July 2008 Briton faces jail for sex on Dubai beach Middle East World The Independent Retrieved 30 June 2013 Sudan must rewrite rape laws to protect victims Reuters 28 June 2007 Archived from the original on 15 June 2013 Retrieved 30 June 2013 United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Refworld Women s Rights in the Middle East and North Africa Yemen Unhcr org Retrieved 30 June 2013 Girl faces lashing for pre marital sex Archived 5 February 2021 at the Wayback Machine Shanghai Daily 2012 Lee Exploring Sex Roles in African Studies 1976 a b c Halpern Feisher B L Cornell J L Kropp R Y Tschann J M 2005 Oral Versus Vaginal Sex Among Adolescents Perceptions Attitudes and Behaviour Pediatrics 115 4 845 851 doi 10 1542 peds 2004 2108 PMID 15805354 Waites Matthew 2005 The Age of Consent Young People Sexuality and Citizenship Palgrave Macmillan ISBN 978 1 4039 2173 4 a b Kopple Wolf com Kopple Wolf com Archived from the original on 5 June 2013 Retrieved 30 June 2013 a b People vs Floers 126545 April 21 1999 J Gonzaga Reyes En Banc Supreme Court of the Philippines 21 April 1999 Archived from the original on 8 March 2019 Retrieved 25 December 2014 WHEREFORE the judgment of the court a quoconvicting Lorenzo Andaya of the crime of rape is hereby AFFIRMED a b G R No 126545 Lawphil net Retrieved 30 June 2013 348 SE2d 486 Affirmed Lawskills com 15 July 1986 Retrieved 25 December 2014 The defendant appeals his conviction for aggravated sodomy OCGA 16 6 2 a on a five year old child victim G R No 126921 Lawphil net Retrieved 30 June 2013 Canada s age of consent raised by 2 years CBC News 1 May 2008 Retrieved 22 March 2009 Levesque Roger J R 1999 Sexual Abuse of Children A Human Rights Perspective Indiana University Press pp 1 5 6 176 180 ISBN 9780253334718 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights 1989 Archived from the original on 11 June 2010 Lawrence Greenfeld 6 February 1997 Sex Offenses and Offenders PDF U S Department of Justice Retrieved 25 December 2014 Prostitution Market Value Retrieved 22 May 2010 The prostitution of women and girls Page 5 Ronald B Flowers 1998 Flowers R Barri 2010 Street kids the lives of runaway and thrownaway teens McFarland pp 110 112 ISBN 978 0 7864 4137 2 Hope Ditmore Melissa 2010 Prostitution and Sex Work Historical Guides to Controversial Issues in America Greenwood p 4 ISBN 978 0 313 36289 7 Kelly Sanja Julia Breslin 2010 Women s Rights in the Middle East and North Africa Progress Amid Resistance Freedom in the World Freedom House Rowman amp Littlefield Publishers p 556 ISBN 978 1 4422 0396 9 Further reading Wikimedia Commons has media related to Human sexual activity Wikiquote has quotations related to Human sexual activity Durex Global Sex Survey 2005 PDF at data360 org Dutton Judy 2009 How we do it how the science of sex can make you a better lover New York Broadway Books ISBN 978 0 7679 3028 4 Retrieved 25 December 2022 Retrieved from https en wikipedia org w index php title Human sexual activity amp oldid 1144077691, wikipedia, wiki, book, books, library,

article

, read, download, free, free download, mp3, video, mp4, 3gp, jpg, jpeg, gif, png, picture, music, song, movie, book, game, games.