Sexual Behavior
Sexual behavior is the wide range of physical activities and psychological behaviors that are engaged in by humans as a part of their sexual relationships. This includes activities such as intercourse, masturbation, kissing, touching, role-playing, and various other forms of physical intimacy. Although sexual behavior can vary significantly from one person to another, it is a normal and important part of human development and relationships.
Sexual behavior is determined by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Biological factors include hormones, genetics, and neurological differences, while psychological factors include psychological development, personality traits, and socialization. Social factors, such as the influence of family, friends, and culture, play a large role in shaping and influencing sexual behavior.
In the past, research on sexual behavior has primarily focused on heterosexual relationships. However, recent research has begun to expand the scope of study to include same-sex relationships as well. Notable findings in this area include the increased prevalence of same-sex relationships, increased acceptance of consensual non-monogamous relationships, and greater recognition of diverse gender identities and expressions.
The study of sexual behavior is important not only for understanding and promoting healthy sexual relationships, but also for preventing and reducing unwanted or risky sexual behaviors. Research in this area can help identify risk factors associated with various types of sexual behavior and inform public health efforts to reduce the prevalence of diseases such as HIV/AIDS and sexually-transmitted infections (STIs).
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Sexuality. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/sexuality
Bancroft, J. (2008). Human sexuality and its problems (3rd ed.). Elsevier.
Kohler, P. K., Manhart, L. E., & Lafferty, W. E. (2008). Abstinence-only and comprehensive sex education and the initiation of sexual activity and teen pregnancy. The Journal of Adolescent Health, 42(4), 344-351.
Meston, C. M., & Buss, D. M. (2007). Why humans have sex. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 36(4), 477-507.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Sexual behavior. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/sexual-behavior/index.shtml