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9: Sexual Behavior

  • Page ID
    14488
    • Anonymous
    • LibreTexts

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    • 9.1: An Overview of Heterosexuality
      This page examines the shifts in societal attitudes towards heterosexual sex resulting from the 1960s sexual revolution. It highlights the empowerment of women through the birth control pill, increased premarital sexual activity among the youth, and the persistence of traditional views on extramarital and teenage sex. While minimal gender differences exist in behaviors, males tend to have more partners, and females engage more in same-sex contact.
    • 9.2: Teenage Sex and Pregnancy
      This page examines the challenges faced by teenage mothers, including financial struggles, unstable living situations, and the impact on their children's development. Teenage pregnancy poses societal issues, including healthcare costs and poverty cycles, despite declining rates since the 1990s due to better contraceptive access and education.
    • 9.3: Abortion
      This page examines the history of abortion laws in the U.S., noting the complexities surrounding unplanned pregnancies, legal milestones like Roe v. Wade, and ongoing restrictions. It highlights the annual statistic of 1.2 million abortions, the impact of provider access, and divided public opinion influenced by various social factors.
    • 9.4: Prostitution
      This page discusses the complex and controversial nature of prostitution in the U.S., highlighting varied societal attitudes. Critics stress moral concerns and women's exploitation, while supporters advocate for legalization to mitigate harm and improve safety. It examines different types of sex work, focusing on the challenges faced by streetwalkers versus indoor workers, customer motivations, and the economic facets of prostitution.
    • 9.5: Pornography
      This page explores the complex nature of pornography, highlighting varied definitions, societal responses, and its significant popularity and revenues. It notes a divide in public opinion, particularly among religious and feminist groups, regarding its impacts on morality and violence against women. Research suggests that increased access to pornography correlates with declining rape rates, contradicting the idea that it fuels sexual aggression.
    • 9.6: End-of-Chapter Material
      This page discusses the sexual revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, highlighting a shift in American attitudes towards sex and an increase in premarital sexual activity. Although teenage sexual activity has risen, pregnancy and birth rates have declined since the 1990s. Suggestions for further reductions include better access to family planning and contraceptives.


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