Sexual Arousal and Response

Critical thinking Assume that PL-6983 has genuine

aphrodisiac qualities. What possible benefits might be associated with its use?

What abuses might arise? Would you consider using an

aphrodisiac? If so, under what conditions?

What causes people to: Not want sex?

Physical Psychological Social

Want sex? Physical Psychological Social

Visual stimulation Self report = men respond more than

women Physiologically = both men and women

have similar responses

Decrease in sexual desire Silence during sexplay

(decreases arousal) Birth control pills Blood pressure medication Antidepressant medication Antihypertensive medication

Tranquilizers High nicotine cigarettes

Basic physiological arousal responses Vasocongestion

Orgasmic platform Engorgement of outer third of vagina during

plateau phase Erection in men

Mytonia Muscular spasms during orgasm Uterine contractions

Vasocongestion Female Stage #1

Vasocongestion Female Stage #2

Vasocongestion Female Stage #3

Female Vasocongestion

Sexual response models Helen Kaplan’s modes Masters and Johnson’s model

Helen Kaplan’s model Desire Excitement Orgasm

Master’s & Johnson’s model Excitement Plateau Orgasm Resolution Refractory period

Male only

Excitement

Plateau

Orgasm

Male & female descriptions of orgasm are indistinguishable

Resolution

Response differences between the sexes Greater variability in female response Male refractory period

Lack of this= multiple orgasms for women Males may have pre-ejaculatory orgasms

followed by final orgasm

Grafenberg Spot (G-spot) Upper wall of vagina Possible remnant of

prostate tissue Sometimes results

in ejaculation from urethra Ejaculate fluid is

similar to male prostate secretions

Aging and sexual response Women

Decreased vaginal lubrication KY or” Slippery Stuff”

Decrease in length & width of vagina Decrease in number of orgasmic

contractions “Use it or loose it” The more active you are,

the more active you stay.

Aging & sexual response (cont.) Men

Longer time to get erection Increased control

Reduced mytonia Reduced testicle elevation

Cross cultural sexual arousal Healthy skin, hair, & teeth are

universally attractive Oral sex viewed as unnatural or

disgusting in many cultures Sexual frequency varies by culture