Zoophilia Wiki - User contributions [en]

Furry bar

2021-06-20T06:05:36Z

Quantumhusky:

{{stub}}

A furry bar is a drinking establishment that caters to an exclusively or predominantly furry or [[zoosexual]] clientele; the term furry is used as a broadly inclusive concept for Z+ communities.

Other names used to describe these establishments include zeta bar, zoosexual bar, and fur club, depending on the niche communities that they served.

With the advent of the Internet and an increasing acceptance of zoosexual and furry people across the Western world, the relevance of gay bars in the zoosexual and furry communities has somewhat diminished. In areas without a furry bar, certain establishments may hold a furry night instead.

Furry bar

2021-06-20T06:05:02Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "A furry bar is a drinking establishment that caters to an exclusively or predominantly furry or zoosexual clientele; the term furry is used as a broadly inclusive concept for..."

A furry bar is a drinking establishment that caters to an exclusively or predominantly furry or [[zoosexual]] clientele; the term furry is used as a broadly inclusive concept for Z+ communities.

Other names used to describe these establishments include zeta bar, zoosexual bar, and fur club, depending on the niche communities that they served.

With the advent of the Internet and an increasing acceptance of zoosexual and furry people across the Western world, the relevance of gay bars in the zoosexual and furry communities has somewhat diminished. In areas without a furry bar, certain establishments may hold a furry night instead.

List of years in Zoo rights

2021-06-20T05:48:51Z

Quantumhusky:

*2006 - [[Zoophiles]] against prejudice, push for animal abuse to become more punishable while liberating zoophiles.

*2009 – Zoophiles Commitment for Tolerance and Awareness, later called the Zoophiles for Ethical Treatment of Animals (ZETA), a [[zoophile]] rights organization, is created in Germany.

*1 February 2013 - ZETA and zoophiles protest in Berlin's Potsdamer Platz over the Bundesrat signing of on a package of measures that included making [[bestiality]] punishable by up to fine of up maximum of €25,000

* 2014 - This year’s ‘International Zoophile-Rights / Bestiality-Rights Day’ on February 1, 2014, the first ever, was an amazing triumph of courage and [[love]] and saw the expansion of the Zoophile-Rights / Bestiality-Rights movement worldwide.

==References==
https://www.zoophile-gegen-vorurteile.de/petition.html
https://www.equalityforall.net/amazing-triumph-with-first-ever-international-zoophile-rights-bestiality-rights-day/

Template:ZETA/Selected article/Number of articles

2021-06-20T05:41:18Z

Quantumhusky:

Template:ZETA/Selected article/4

2021-06-20T05:39:57Z

Quantumhusky:

It all started when one of my clients, I want to call him Christian, told me that he couldn't find any literature on bestiality / zoophilia. He was a client in my psychotherapy practice because he couldn't stop having sex with dogs. He was a very religious person who believed it was wrong to have sexual relations with anything other than a woman. And then only if you are married to this woman.

Template:ZETA/Selected article/4

2021-06-20T05:39:38Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "It all started when one of my clients, I want to call him Christian, told me that he couldn't find any literature on bestiality / zoophilia. He was a client in my psychotherap..."

Template:ZETA/Selected article/3

2021-06-20T05:30:51Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "The Zeta Pride (Not to be confused with the now Zoo Pride Week)was an annual convention of zoos in northern Germany. It was organized by Fjordwolf. It started as a second Germ..."

The Zeta Pride (Not to be confused with the now Zoo Pride Week)was an annual convention of zoos in northern Germany.
It was organized by Fjordwolf.
It started as a second German zoo-con for those in northern Germany that didn't want to travel all the way to the Zetacon or didn't have the opportunity to take off at that time.
There were rooms available or camping-space for those with dogs.

Zeta Pride

2021-06-20T05:30:23Z

Quantumhusky:

''ZETA PRIDE''<br>

The Zeta Pride (Not to be confused with the now [[Zoo Pride Week]])was an annual convention of zoos in northern Germany.<br>
It was organized by Fjordwolf.<br>
It started as a second German zoo-con for those in northern Germany that didn't want to travel all the way to the [[Zetacon]] or didn't have the opportunity to take off at that time.<br>
There were rooms available or camping-space for those with dogs.<br>
On the agenda were a few entertaining competitions like [[zoophilia]] related quizzes, eating spaghetti hands free out of a dog bowl, blind food tasting, song recognition, etc.<br>
Also there was BBQing and a traditional, optional visit to a Brazilian restaurant for Rodizio.<br>
The convention was non-sexual in its nature and meant as a gathering of like-minded individuals to get to know each other and share thoughts.

Ref:Ookami <br>
local media: https://www.abendblatt.de/hamburg/hamburg-mitte/article106577039/Michel-Pastor-stoppt-dubioses-Tiercamp.html

=== See Also ===
[[Legacy ZetaPride]] For more details.

Template:ZETA/Selected article/1

2021-06-20T05:28:50Z

Quantumhusky:

Consent is very important to zoophiles – they get pleasure from giving pleasure to the animals that they are with.

Different species have various vocalizations as well as body language, and with these forms of communication they either deliver or withhold consent. Zoos are sure to make sure they get their animal’s explicit consent each step of the way, and doing otherwise can prove hazardous. Many animals such as medium or large dogs (not to mention ungulates, which weigh much more) are all certainly capable of delivering a firm ‘no’ that will leave the person with no doubt in their mind whether the animal wants sexual contact or not.

Signs of consent include solicitous behaviors such as pawing at the person, rubbing their face or other body parts against them, humping in males (and occasionally females) as well as females standing and flagging.

Signs of non-consent include bared teeth, pinned ears, fur standing on end, as well as hissing, growling, and other angry vocalizations. Freezing in place and widening of the eyes are signs of dubious consent and if the animal’s behavior does not quickly change toward positive, it is a sign that one must stop attempting to stimulate the animal.

Template:ZETA/Selected article/2

2021-06-20T05:24:35Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "The practice of animal-human marriage has made appearances in several mythological stories and folklore, and is often understood to mean a deity-human marriage involving gods..."

The practice of animal-human marriage has made appearances in several mythological stories and folklore, and is often understood to mean a deity-human marriage involving gods or heroes. The Chinese folktale "The Goddess of the Silkworm" is an example of a tale where a woman marries a horse. A similar Irish legend tells of a king who marries a horse, symbolizing a divine union between the king and the goddess of the land. Also, the indigenous Cheyenne has a story of an animal-human marriage in "The Girl who Married a Dog". In addition, there are many Native American stories about people who married animals. In these Native American myths, animal spirits frequently assume human form. They are not seen as literal animals, but representatives from the animal kingdom.

Zooness

2021-06-20T05:15:32Z

Quantumhusky:

==Zetamology==
This word has two meanings.

*zooness - The metaphorical level that a zoosexual is at. For example "His zooness is over 9000"
*zooness - The inherent zooself within a zoosexual. "I discovered my zooness at age 18"

===Etymology===
zoo- +‎ -ness.

==See also==

* [[Zoosexual]]
* [[Zoophilia]]

Zooness

2021-06-20T05:15:16Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "==Zetamology== This word has two meanings. zooness - The metaphorical level that a zoosexual is at. For example "His zooness is over 9000" zooness - The inherent zooself with..."

==Zetamology==
This word has two meanings.

zooness - The metaphorical level that a zoosexual is at. For example "His zooness is over 9000"
zooness - The inherent zooself within a zoosexual. "I discovered my zooness at age 18"

===Etymology===
zoo- +‎ -ness.

==See also==

* [[Zoosexual]]
* [[Zoophilia]]

Sexual orientation

2021-06-20T05:11:46Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "See Sexual identity"

See [[Sexual identity]]

Template:ZETA/Selected article/Number of articles

2021-06-20T05:09:38Z

Quantumhusky:

Non-Zoo Allies

2021-06-20T05:09:25Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "{{stub}} ==Non-Zoo Allies== Non-Zoo Allies are individuals who understand that we as zoosexuals are just normal everyday people with different love interests. These individua..."

{{stub}}
==Non-Zoo Allies==

[[Non-Zoo]] Allies are individuals who understand that we as zoosexuals are just normal everyday people with different [[love]] interests. These individuals support us through on one end just being a friend or on the other end advocating by our sides.

Zoo Friendly

2021-06-20T05:06:36Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "See Non-Zoo Allies"

See [[Non-Zoo Allies]]

Zoo Friend

2021-06-20T05:05:41Z

Quantumhusky:

See [[Zoo Friendly]]

Zoo Friend

2021-06-20T05:05:29Z

Quantumhusky:

See [[Zoo Friendly]

Zoo Friend

2021-06-20T05:05:14Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "See [Zoo Friendly]"

See [Zoo Friendly]

Hani Miletski's Chat Logs

2021-06-20T04:56:01Z

Quantumhusky:

==Speaking With Zoosexuals Before Writing Dissertation==

*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
*Tammy shouts — I’ m going to be moderating tonight
*Active says — Moderate away, Tam :)
*Tammy shouts — Those of you planning on attending the thing with Hani, please come down here
*Tammy says — Okay. Beverly has asked me to moderate tonight. The purpose for this visit, as I understand, is for Hani to tell us about her research and then for her to answer questions.
*Black says — what kind of research?
*Tammy says — I’ m going to find that out along with you all
*Active says — So she’s not looking for information from us?
*Strong says — Not at this time.
*Tammy says — this is not going to be a one on one thing, not at this time.
*Active says — Interesting.
*Tammy says — but she would like to have contact with some people here.
*Satyr says — This is a meeting to allow us to meet her and understand what she is trying to do/research.
*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
*Doggie says — No!
*Active listens.
*Kevin wows at Doggie
*Tammy pokes Doggie :)
*Mike nods
*Whitedog says — It’s only a little report, Active. Nothing’s going to be published.
*Active says — Oh?
*Tussle walks in
*SIGN ON — [[Hani Miletski|HANI MILETSKI]], MSW
*Active says — Hi Hani!
*Satyr says — Heya Hani :)
*Thrill lifts Kevin up... “ can you see?”
*Tammy says — Hi Hani
*Jim tacklehugs Hani
*Black says — Hi Hani
*Mike says — hello then :)
*Alex says — hi Hani
*Foxi says — Hi Hani
*Tussle spyhops
*Satyr says — Welcome to the Forest, or “ total chaos” as it sometimes is ;)
*Troy says — hi all
*Tammy says — I am explaining what’s going on to everyone. My name is Tammy, and I will try to moderate tonight. I would like to use the same method as we did for other meetings... talking one at a time, and if you wish to talk, use a 🐾 to indicate that.
*Cocco says — hello everyone
*Tammy says — Kevin, can you keep track of who is next to talk for me?
*Kevin says — okay, let me get some scritch paper
*Urge splashes Race [[Horse]]
*Jim thwapples Race Horse gently
*Axiom says — Hi Active
*Redcow sits and moos
*Craig walks in
*Prince appears from nowhere!
*Mic walks in
*Littlehorse walks in
*Full walks in
*Mic grabs the couch
*Zoro walks in
*Mike sits next to Mic
*Foxi says — eekk, what a crowded hallway!
*Alex snags a spot on the couch
*Foxi sits by Mic
*Whitedog lays on Mike and Mic :)
*Beverly says — okay, people, Hani isn’ t used to the net, so don’ t spam her, please.
*Full eats outa his feeder
*Word walks in
*Active nods
*Redcow lies down and ruminates...
*Jim finds a piece of carpet to lay on, and pulls Race Horse down on top of him, skritching his tummy
*Active grins
*Dolphin reads the message board.
*Race Horse yeeeps and stretches on Jim, “ Mmmmmmm!”
*Tammy says — While Hani is talking, please do not interrupt.
*Hani says — Hi everybody. Just wanted to let you know that it’s my first time on the net and I’ m very slow at this, so please be patient. Do you have any questions for me?
*Black says — hi Hani
*Mike says — hello Hani :)
*Active says — Hi Hani
*Holland bids you all good morning!
*Foxi says — Hi Hani
*Dolphin says — Hello Hani!
*Tammy says — Welcome Hani
*Mic says — hi Hani
*Doggie says — hi Hani. We spoke on der phone
*Prince says — howdy!
*Alex says — greetings Hani
*Satyr bows in greeting to Hani
*Jim waves
*Littlehorse says — hi, we spoke
*Trouble clicks hello! :)
*Race Horse bows, “ Hello Hani. I’ m a complete stranger.”
*Whitedog waves to Hani. Then sits and pays attention.
*Littlehorse says — 🐾
*Sheep knocks on the door
*Holland says — Hani, what is the purpose of your study? What do you hope to get out of it?
*Crocodile appears from nowhere!
*Hani says — Basically, I want to get all the info. I can get about [[bestiality]] and [[zoophilia]], and more specifically if this is a form of sexual orientation.
*Active says — 🐾
*Jim says — 🐾
*Dog appears form nowhere!
*Wolfie arrives in a blinding flash!
*Kevin says — Littlehorse is next
*Satyr says — 🐾
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Littlehorse says — okay, could you tell us where besides here you find sources of information? Or put differently, are all your sources Internet typoes of one sort or another?
*Prince says — 🐾
*Horselover walks in
*Lamb walks in
*Hani says — I am hoping to get all of your cooperation in that, so that you tell others who are not connected to the net about me.
*Littlehorse says — okay, thanks
*Kevin says — Active is next
*Active says — I don’ t think there’s any question that zooness is a sexual orientation, like being hetero or gay or bi.
*Race Horse says — 🐾
*Dolphin is ignoring everyone.
*Hani says — but I don’ t think other people know that (I don’ t know that either, but I hope to find out)
*Dolphin is now listening
*Active nods and says — That’s part of the problem: they think we do it because we can’ t get a human:)
*Hani says — right. I get a lot of that from people who have no idea about the subject.
*Tammy says — 🐾
*Burro walks in
*Mike says — 🐾
*Kevin says — Jim is next
*Jim says — I just wanted to make a clarification; when you say “sexual orientation” you are saying in contrast to a kink, or sexual behavior, like bondage/frottage/etc... So, in your research you are trying to determine if zoophilia is in fact an orientation and not just a kink?
*Hani says — Yes, a sexual orientation like homosexuality.
*Pony says — 🐾
*Littlehorse says — 🐾
*Mic says — 🐾
*Kevin says — Satyr is next
*Satyr takes a deep breath and says — I think we would all like to get a little background as to why you are gathering this information. What is already out there on the subject, and what do you hope to contribute to the psychological community by doing this study? I know you’re planning on putting together a rather lengthy questionnaire for those who choose to partake in the study. Do you have any ideas as to what its content will be?
*Satyr yields the floor
*Hani says — I know there is not a lot out there, and that’s why I want to do something about it. The questionnaire will probably be long, and will include questions about your sex life, as well as questions about your life in general, such as level of education, age, etc. I will have questions with different options for you to choose from, and I will also allow you to elaborate on your feelings, thoughts, and experiences, so that I can get more info.
*Satyr nods and thanks Hani
*Star walks in
*Active says — 🐾
*Moo arrives in a blinding flash!
*Wolf walks in
*Prince says — that was my question. I was curious as to when you...oops, sorry...
*Kevin tickles Prince ;)
*Fortune walks in
*Kevin nods to Doggie and says — Doggie is next
*Doggie says — thanks. Are the study results to be widely published in some form? Might it mean a change of term from zoophilie to something like [[zoosexual]] which indicates an orientation rather than a mental illness? Yields der floor.
*Hani says — I don’ t know. Haven’ t thought about it. I am hoping to have enough info. to be able to
*publish it in a book.
*Doggie says — thank you.
*Kevin tickles Doggie — limit your questions silly ;)
*Breath knocks on the door and walks in
*Fortune curls up quietly on the floor...
*Hani says — next question
*Redcow says — 🐾
*Kevin hands the microphone to Prince
*Prince says — I’ m a professor of photography. I will be happy to do the illustrations, Hani 🐾laughs🐾... seriously, your form sounds interesting. When will they be available and how do we get them? Thank
you.
*Hani says — good question. It will probably be ready, hopefully, before the summer. I need you to call me at (###) ###-####, to tell me how can I send it to you, since I have no regular access to the net. If anyone is long distance, you can call me, and I’ ll call you right back, so don’ t worry about the charges. Even if you are in a different country.
*Black says — 🐾
*Holland says — 🐾
*Active says — 🐾
*Word reads the mail
*Kevin says — Race Horse, your turn
*Race Horse walks up to the mic and baps it on his head. “ Ow.”
*Tammy smiles
*Fortune smiles
*Hani says — Hani too (I’ m starting to get the hang of this).
*Two knocks on the door
*Foxi perks her ears
*Race Horse says — insomuch as zoophilia being considered a [[sexuality]], I do agree that it is. But I think it is vastly different from homosexuality on a few points. In my experience, the majority of
[[zoophiles]] or zoosexuals, whatever you call it, had mostly environmental factors that made them that way, for the most part. I imagine all of us have an “ affinity” toward animals. But by and large, I suspect most here grew up spending much time alone, and turned to non-humans as a means of support and friendship. To many of us, it seems only logical to take that a step [[further]] and extend those relationships into the areas of [[intimacy]]. More and more it seems homosexuality is becoming linked to genetics. This may be true of zoophiles to a degree, but only marginally.
*Hani says — everything is possible. I hope to find out more about it in the future.
*Race Horse says — a person may have had an abusive family, for instance, and formed a relationship with his dog.
*Hani says — right! That’s why this will be one of my questions in the questionnaire.
*Fortune nods
*Race Horse says — I think you’ ll find scenarios like this abundant when you talk to the rest of us.
*Tammy says — thanks Race Horse
*Race Horse is finished, now that his face is blue.
*Spike walks in
*Black applauds
*Crocodile says — 🐾
*Kevin passes the mic to Lamb
*Lamb says — is your research going to look at the zoophiles’ other relationships as well? I’ m currently in a relationship and have told her about my interests. It worked out well for me, but others were not so lucky.
*Hani says — yes. I’ m happy for you. It must have been difficult for you.
*Moo smiles
*Tammy says — Hani, many of my friends here are very concerned about privacy. What kind of guarantees do they have this will all be in confidence? And can we work together to set up something so that their privacy can be maintained? I mean like a go between... or something. Oh, one more... are you interested in zoo-friendly’s?
*Hani says — Well, the questionnaire is anonymous. I am not going to include any personal info. on you in my study. All I need is a name and an address to send it to you. When you send it back you don’ t have to put your address on. (Beverly, who is sitting next to me, is telling me that Tammy is not a zoo, but a “ zoo-friendly.” She likes to hang out with zoos and help them when they need her help). The people who qualify for my study are those who have had [[Sexual Contact with Animals|sexual contact with animals]]! Sorry.
*Tammy says — you understand, Hani, that many people here can be arrested for this. Maybe the form can be made available electronically on one of the zoo sites?
*Hani says — the problem with that is that I will have no idea who was the respondent, and I can get people who just played a trick on me.
*Tammy says — I could be an intermediary, if people trusted me...
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Moo says — 🐾
*Whitedog says — 🐾
*Two says — 🐾
*Full says — 🐾
*Alex grins
*Active says — 🐾
*Ron says — 🐾
*Woof goes to the forest
*Goat goes to the forest
*Kevin says — okay, the list is over 17 long now. Trouble is next, but Black has to leave soon.
*Tammy says — Black...
*Black says — is the research you do here going to be used as part of any graduate work? And for what specific purpose?
*Hani says — I am a doctoral student in [[human sexuality]]. This is my dissertation research.
*Black waves bye to everyone and says — okay, thank you
*Hani says — bye
*Dogman arrives in a blinding flash!
*GW appears from nowhere!
*Mike says — what prompted you to do this research?
*Hani says — I am a psychotherapist in my profession. I have a client who is a zoo, and I was trying to get some [[literature]] for him, but found almost nothing. So I figured that this subject needs to be
researched and published.
*Mike smiles. “ Thank you” :)
*Wildlife walks in.
*Trouble says — two parts: 1. What specific research question do you want to answer, or are you just gathering general information about zoophilia?
*Hani says — generally, both. Specifically, is there such a thing as a sexual orientation toward animals?
*Trouble says — 2. How do you plan to address the obvious bias that 🐾we🐾 as power computer users, are just a subset of the total [[zoo community]]?
*Hani says — I know, that’s a problem. I will have to address that in my dissertation as a limitation of my study. But, I am hoping to get people who are not in the net as well.
*Trouble hopes so too and yields the floor
*Sunshine walks in
*Pony says — is it your goal to attempt an origin theory on zoophilia, or the coping mechanisms that various zoos have developed in order to function within [[society]]?
*Hani says — I guess both. It will be great if I can get the answers to all of that.
*Pony says — can I squeeze in another one?
*Hani says — a ha
*Pony says — what are your current beliefs about the origin of zoophilia: biological, psychological, or sociological?
*Hani says — currently I have no actual beliefs. I don’ t want to get into this research project with biases.
*Moo nods
*Lamb says — good answer :)
*Hani says — thanks. Who’s next?
*Mic says — sorry, Hani, I’ m confused. So far, it seems that you are only gathering information. You have not formulated any specific question which you are trying to answer. I do not think that I want to be involved in just an information gathering without knowing to what end the information I give will be used.
Hani says — basically yes. But, I said earlier that I am trying to find out if there is a sexual orientation
toward animals.
*Mic says — of course there is, or we wouldn’ t be here :)
*Hani says — I believe that whatever I find will be important and worthwhile, since most people have no clue about this subject, including psychotherapists who are supposed to help people deal with that.
*Mic says — help people deal with what? What do you mean by “ deal with it.” ?
*Tammy says — Mic, there are many issues to be “ dealt with.” I’ m sure Hani is not saying it is wrong
*Mic says — sorry, but I do not feel like I am getting solid answers
*GW nods in agreement
*Hani says — with their struggles. I know that a lot of you thought at one point or another that you are the only one, and that something is wrong with you, and there was no one to talk to about it, and nothing to read... So I think it is important to get people to know more, and not be judgmental.
*Mic says — okay. Then that would be a purpose that I would be willing to participate in. I yield.
*Hani says — great. Thanks!
*Tammy says — just an FYI, I’ ve discussed zoophilia with my therapist, she knew nothing about it.
*Mike says — 🐾
*Blackhorse walks in
*Active says — okay, here it goes, this is going to be long. First, I think I speak for the majority when I say I do not approve of asking zoos for a mailing address, under any circumstances, even if you don’ t connect the answers to the individual respondents. Sorry to come so hard, but using snail mail is extremely dangerous for items of a sexual nature, especially where that nature is illegal in some areas. Sending bestiality information, even a survey response, through the mail can be a Federal offense, so everyone who replies may become a criminal. I second Tam’s recommendation that you make the form available at one or more of the more popular zoo web pages. This should make distribution easy and very safe. Those of us with zoo friends not connected to the net can pass the info along by ourselves and relay it via email through a trusted intermediary. As for people who play a trick on you, that’ ll happen no matter what method you use for gathering the data. Masters and Johnson faced it, and so did Margaret Mead. It simply goes with the territory. Sex is prone to pranksters. And for the record, I never thought there was anything “ wrong” with me :) Finally, in more mundane matters, have you read “ the Horseman” by Mark Matthews? I haven’ t read it myself, but it is highly recommended.
*Race Horse grabs a bucket of popcorn
*Hani says — well, first, please don’ t write so much at one time... I’ m a slow reader :) Active apologizes — I’ m leaving soon, so I threw up my queue all at once :)
*Hani says — I read the book, and even talked to the author. This was one of the things that inspired me to do the research. I already have about 20 people who have given me their addresses. I know it is dangerous, but if you don’ t put your address, the police can only arrest me.
*Active says — but if someone wanted to compile a list of zoos, this is how one would do it. In order to receive a form, one must send out an address, so the list compiler knows at least you’re a zoo.
*Hani says — I highly doubt that anyone is going to open the mail. Also, I send you the questionnaire, and when you send it back, no one knows who it is from. I promise not to give out and not to use the list I have in any form or shape. I don’ t know what else I can tell you.
*Beverly says — if she was to give out personal information after gathering it into a list, she would be censured by her university. No reputable researcher gives out personal information on subjects
*Mike nods
*Hani says — and I will also loose my credentials as a psychotherapist
*Breath says — and our name would be prisoner 9243b
*Blackhorse says — hehe
*Active turns on his total paranoia mode — if you are really a researcher and not a Fed. Sorry, it had to be said. Paranoia mode off :(
*Foxi grins
*Active now yields the floor. Promise :)
*Kevin tickles Active, mainly cause it’s fun ;)
*Beverly says — I look around Hani’s room, at the literature and [[Module:Documentation|documentation]] already gathered on the subject, and wonder if Hani could really be a Fed. I don’ t think so.
*Hani says — thanks.
*World walks in
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Foxi says — 🐾
*Deer walks in
*Copy arrives in a blinding flash!
*Full says — 🐾
*Redcow says — are the questionnaires going to be given to non-zoos for comparison? How are you
going to compare the question results?
*Hani says — that’s a very good idea. I’ ll have to talk to my committee members about it.
*Redcow says — Will it be qualitative or quantitative? Will questions be leading? Will you use open
or closed answers?
*Hani says — both. I’ ll have open-ended questions as well as multiple choice ones.
*Redcow says — will you take into account the socio-economic factors? And even geographical
location? Age? Sex? Etc.
*Hani says — yes, all of the above.
*Redcow says — how will you present them to the subject?
*Hani says — what do you mean?
*Redcow says — well, do you ask your subject about economics, or do you use census data?
*Hani says — I ask. Probably will give a few options to choose from.
*Redcow says — sorry, you seem to have misunderstood. Are you going to find further data about the
subject from previous surveys, using say their address to find their socio-economic class. Also, have
you had any papers published in journals etc. before?
*Hani says — I will have to look at other studies, but I don’ t think anyone has studied it before, at least
as far as I know. I will only use the info you give me. Im not going to spy on you in any other way. I
don’ t even ask questions on the phone when people call me. And I have not yet published anything,
but my master’s thesis is going to be published probably in January.
*Redcow says — 2 last questions. Very short, are you going to look at the species of animal the subject
likes, and the age at which they started?
*Hani says — Sure. That’s very important info.
*Tammy says — good questions Redcow
*Jim says — there is only a tiny amount of literature out there on the topic, and what there is of it is
largely outdated... so Hani has a job cut out for her, due to the scarcity of prior work. I’ m not sure
she’s even gotten a chance to formulate the kinds of questions she wants to ask. This is going to be a
very big synthesis.
*Ball walks in
*Kevin notes — the list: Holland, Breath, Doggie, Moo, Two, Full, Ron, Mini, Kevin, Mike, Foxi,
Sunshine, so you can all know who is in front of you and get ready :-)
*Holland stands up clears his throat and says — just want to know, in the UK, are you going to snail
mail the questionnaires over to us? Also, what sort of time do you accept phone calls bearing in mind
our time difference. Is the questionnaire going to be based in a sexual context? Or will there be an
emotional content as well. For instance, to me, sex is not the only consideration. It covers the whole
spectrum just like in human relationships.
*Hani says — yes, I’ ll have to send it by regular mail. I am going to ask about the emotional aspect as
well, cause this is part of it, as far as I understand.
Copy nods
*Holland says — my overriding concern is my horse’s happiness, not my own. I’ ll do anything for
that.
*Moo smiles at Holland
*Mike nods enthusiastically
*Hani says — there’s 6 hours difference between DC and UK. So just calculate the time, whenever you
want
*Holland says — Hani, and you’ ll call back to the UK??? That’s expensive.
*Hani says — sure I’ ll call!!!
*Mike says — cool :)
*Tammy says — okay Holland?
*Holland says — umm... I think those bits about the emotional aspects and such was it.
*Tammy says — Breath is next
*Kevin suddenly notes the absence of a microphone in his hand!! Giggles
*Tammy says — oops! Did I mess up?
*Tammy sits back and lets Kevin do his job — sorry :)
*Breath says — the thing that worries me the most is the anonymity. Let me get this right, you want
me to give my entire address to a complete stranger about a subject which is completely illegal in the
UK and carries a maximum penalty of life sentence for an unclear advantage?
*Hani says — I know I am asking you to trust me and you don’ t even know me. I’ m asking a lot, but
what else can I do?
*Tammy says — you are with two people we do trust, Hani. I’ m sure we can figure something out.
*Hani says — thanks Tammy
*Breath says — make the form available via a web site or send it out via... What do you hope to
actually achieve with this whole thing? Who will be able to see it? The general public? The
psychiatry community? Or just a few professors in a small university?
*Hani says — currently I am not connected to the net, so that’s a problem. We’ ll see. I’ m hoping to
publish it as a book, and have in mind to make presentations to professionals in various conferences.
*Littlehorse is satisfied and will answer the questionnaire when it appears
*Hani says — thank you Littlehorse
*Breath is afraid he’s not going to touch this. Sounds too fishy to him
*Hani says — why Breath?
*Tammy says — everyone is entitled to their own opinion
*Hani says — true, but still, I need as many people as I can get. The more people I have, the more
credible the study will be
*Breath says — exactly, and my opinion is that I am not going to give my home address to anyone I
don’ t know real well, or without a good reason. Who’s to say that Hani is not someone collecting
addresses of zoos for various reasons. Ours is not a simple life. People would see us persecuted at
every chance. And why the curiosity over this subject in particular? Is there a reason?
*Hani says — I understand you. That’s why I want you to call me, so you may get to know me better.
I explained earlier.
*Tammy says — she has gone over that. I’ m recording and will make the file available
*Breath says — sorry, I didn’ t see that
*Hani says — that’s okay. Feel free to call me
*Breath says — why don’ t you just conduct some interviews here? Lock a room and interview people. Anonymous and easy.
*Tammy says — she has no net access
*Breath says — how is she here now then?
*Beverly says — we came over to her house with a laptop and signed on through our account
*Breath sits down and listens
*Breath says — Beverly is with her in real life?
*Tammy says — yes
*Breath didn’ t know this fact :)
*Beverly says — we are here, it’s our computer, and we trust Hani
*Breath would have been a lot more chilled out had someone told him this
*Hani says — that’s okay. I’ m glad you are with us
*Race Horse says — I’ m sorry Hani. I don’ t think I can trust you. I think you’re an alien from Dimension X
*Tammy says — let’s let Hani continue with her answers
*Doggie says — I believe Hani is a medical professional bound by rules of ethics/client confidentiality. Those concerned about their address should use a P.O. Box, or not participate, perhaps. Email/second party and web pages can be meddled with. Test is not illegal to mail, or “ The Horseman” could never be mailed. Overseas mail coming in to the US is subject to search at customs.
*Moo waits patiently for his turn
*Kevin passes the mic over
*Moo says — first of all I’ m hoping you’ ll realize how important it is for you to make this available to
as many as possible, through whatever means possible. We treasure our anonymity dearly and we
must protect ourselves foremost. I’ m wondering how many different ways you’re going to crossreference the data. There are a lot of demographics to consider: those who are straight/bi/gay with
people. Those who aren’ t involved with people at all, those who are married/divorced/re-married, race,religion, present age, “starting” age, animal of choice, etc. Are you just going to look for commonalities and then go from there? I’ m just wondering if you’ ll put more importance behind the [[statistics]] or from personal anecdotes? Cause I believe that you may learn a lot more from talking to us as opposed to just getting us to list off answers to questions.
*Mike nods
*GW nods too and says — good question Moo
*Hani says — I am hoping to get qualitative as well as quantitative info, and the questionnaire will probably be long
*Moo says — alright. Willya accept a collect call on Monday? :)
*Hani says — yes! Please!
*Moo smiles and gets his dialing finger ready ;)
*Horselover says — 🐾
*Two says — I would like to add to the “ orientation” question first. Yes, I think there is definitely a sexual orientation toward animals, be it genetic or learned. I am as much aroused by my mares as my wife, and sometimes will drift off and remember past encounters. Second, one thing at least for me is the lack of false pretenses with all animals. Face it, humans will lie. If you do something an animal doesn’ t like, you will know, as you will know if you do something they like. I have spent many hours just scratching an itchy spot and have seen a look that means “I really like that.”
*Tammy says — Two, do you have a question Hani can answer for you?
*Two says — uh, guess not.
*Tammy smiles at Two and says — you will have time to chat with Hani on the phone.
*Active says — 🐾
*Copy says — 🐾
*Ron, looking at the big picture, wonders if Hani’s research is aimed at pulling zoophilia back into the realm of normal sexuality, where it was once before, or further define it as a perversion that does not produce children to further the ideology of our society.
*Hani says — I have no such aim. My intention is to provide objective data so that people will know about zoophilia and maybe understand it better. I will have to analyze all the findings and put it in some form in my dissertation, and afterwards in my future book. I am still in the beginning process of my work, so it will take some time, and a lot of work...
*Race Horse expects a full report, with cover and illustrations on his desk tomorrow.
*Fur appears from nowhere!
*Pope appears from nowhere!
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Kevin sits on Race Horse
*Pope laughs
*Kevin smiles
*Race Horse winks at Hani
*Mini says — Hani, please forgive if I sound stern in what I say, no disrespect is intended, and please excuse my slow typing. First, I saw you mention “ committee.” Will these people be privy to the personal info that I give you, should I decide to do so? How many others, besides yourself will be privy to that info?
*Hani says — no one. Just me
*Mini says — I do not mean to sound paranoid, but...
*Hani says — I understand
*Race Horse says — Hani no esta los federales
*Mini says — these people here are my family. I [[love]] them all, and am fearful of this whole thing. But
*Beverly seems to trust you, and so will I.
*Mike smiles
*Hani says — thanks
*Mini says — but please understand my and others fear
*Hani says — I do
*Mini says — thank you. Sorry for rehashing an old question
*Hani says — that’s fine :)
*Tammy hugs Mini tightly
*Race Horse huggles Mini too
*Ron grins and hugs Mini tightly
*Strong says — 🐾
*Kevin says — at the start you mentioned that the reason you are doing this at all is a result of a patient of yours. I know that you can’ t tell us who the patient is, but I might be so bold as to say that there are many folks here who have found “ acceptance” here, online. It might be a thought for your patient to “ come here” sometimes. They could, of course, be anonymous unless they chose to say anything about it.
*Hani says — I know. I’ ll keep that in mind
*Race Horse notes that the “ acceptance” found here is a double edged sword. It ain’ t always a bouquet of roses.
*Kevin says — that’s it. And I’ ll be calling you sometime
*Hani says — thanks
*Sunshine says — would you send several questionnaires to New Zealand, as I know some here that would fill them out?
*Hani says — yes, but I would like to talk to you on the phone first. Call me and I’ ll call you back.
*Horselover says — I’ ve been discussing mailing the questionnaire with an Australian Customs Officer, and in her off-duty opinion, it’s unlikely that any harm would come to "me" sending the response. But text on bestiality, with details, is a prohibited import everywhere she knows about.
*Hani says — I know, I’ m the only one at risk
*Horselover says — so, effectively, Hani, I would be getting "you" to break the law by answering your questions in detail. How are you going to deal with it in the small chance that someone does check the mail.
*Jim says — but it could be reasonably argued that it’s not erotica
*Pope wonders if the academic nature of the material wouldn’ t protect it
*Hani says — Jim and Pope are probably right, hopefully :)
*Polo appears from nowhere!
*Bobby walks in
*Kevin nuzzles Bobby
*Copy says — did anyone ask if repression because of religion becomes involved for the person, and the ramifications of that and on altered social behavior for not being who you are and what outlets does this altered behavior take? Is this going to be contained in the report?
*Hani says — these are all good ideas for questions. Thank you.
*Copy says — Also, are you going to include, for those of us who are married who’s spouses know about their zoo life, any questions for them?
*Hani says — no, but I’ ll ask you about it.
*Copy says — okay. That was it for me.
*Mustang appears from nowhere!
*Doggie says — they consider us to be dog rapists who should be castrated and jailed. Bringing out "too" much info publically may make them, the Humane Society, and animal rights groups more aware of an "organized network" with possibly bad consequences. What is Hani’s view on this additional exposure risk?
*Hani says — that’s a good one. Let me think...
*Doggie says — people laugh at sex with horses, but get mighty pissed if they think a dog is being abused.
*Hani says — there are always risks, but I hope that my study will show people the humane side of it, and that it’s not abuse.
*Strong says — neither Hani nor I nor anyone else pretends there isn’ t some risk here, possibly serious risk. But it is worth noting that I don’ t believe the risk lies with Hani. I pride myself on being an accomplished sniffer of fakes and Feds, and I’ m betting she’s neither. Nevertheless, as you all seem to know, you don’ t have 100% protection. Yes, you will take an enormous risk receiving the questionnaire, and I don’ t think anyone would hold it against you if you chose to abstain from the survey for that very reason. There is more, though. This is also, to some extent, about sacrifice. In taking this risk, you would be contributing to the first ever serious research about zoophilia.
*Active says — people who don’ t know about places like [[alt.sex.bestiality]] and the Forest are probably worse off than any of us.
*Strong says — this is your chance to make a difference. There is, of course, the distinct possibility that Hani will be an unwilling and/or unwitting participant in an FBI operation. They can tap her phones, search her files, raid her records, on a whim. They can decide to use the information to arrest us all, or just keep it for... a rainy day, as it were. They can, of course, do the same to each of us should they want to badly enough. Of course, I don’ t know what would happen to non-Americans, but I would expect it would be similar in Canada, and possibly the UK. However, that risk has always been present
*Jim says — I don’ t think the Feds are in the habit of raiding university psych labs.
*Bobby says — 🐾
*Active says — 🐾
*Kevin passes the mic over to Bobby
*Bobby says — quite a few questions related to professional things. First, do you have a pre-approved committee? You cannot conduct psychological research or experimentation without committee approval. It is illegal. Without this approval, your doctoral thesis will be disqualified.
*Hani says — I already have an approval
*Bobby says — is the institution accredited, and if so, by who?
*Beverly says — Hani is looking up the accreditation and will be right back. Good questions!
*Tammy says — how is she holding up?
*Beverly says — I’ m more tired than she is. She’s excited about the people being willing to help and this whole new medium.
*Hani says — I’ m back. The school has full educational approval as a California degree granting institution by the California State Department of Education, Private Post-secondary Education Division
*Bobby says — okay. Which research model are you using? And what statistical method of tabulation?
*Hani says — It’s too soon. I don’ t know yet. I am still gathering data and trying to find out how many people will volunteer for the research. I have professional researchers who volunteered to help me with it.
*Bobby says — is not trying to give you the 5th degree, just verifying validity :)
*Hani says — I appreciate it
*Active says — Hani, would you consider a chi-square analysis of 90% to be statistically significant?
*Hani says — I have to go back to my statistics books for that one :)
*Active says — okay :)
*Tammy smiles and says — I think this is it
*GW says — 🐾
*Hani says — GW, what was your question?
*GW — I was just wondering if there was anyway I could talk to you outside the usual business hours, as I work and I can’ t talk at work. We are very much monitored.
*Hani says — yes, call me and just leave your number and a good time to catch you, and I’ ll call you.
*GW says — thanks, I appreciate it. And thanks for taking the time to answer one last question
*Hani says — thank you.
*Bobby huggles Hani for her patience
*Whitedog grabs Tammy and does the tango!
*Hani says — and I want to thank everyone for their cooperation and, maybe even, trust in me
*Active says — you’re welcome, Hani
*GW says — you’re welcome, and come back and visit again
*Pope applauds Hani and especially the Wizards for their excellent crowd control
*Mike says — I would like to thank Hani for doing this research project and wish her good luck
*Whitedog says — you’ ll most likely be getting a call from me, Hani
*Active agrees with Whitedog
*GW says — also thanks to Beverly for giving Hani and us an opportunity to talk
*Mike says — I’ ll be calling too
*GW says — Tammy, how long did the meeting run approximately?
*Tammy says — about 250 minutes :)
*Bobby says — wow!
*Hani says — wow!
*GW offers fresh popcorn to everyone
*Mike grabs a donut and fires up the espresso machine
*Hani says — good night everyone. We are going to sleep :)

Hani Miletski's Chat Logs

2021-06-20T04:54:14Z

Quantumhusky:

==Pending Format Fix==

*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
*Tammy shouts — I’ m going to be moderating tonight
*Active says — Moderate away, Tam :)
*Tammy shouts — Those of you planning on attending the thing with Hani, please come down here
*Tammy says — Okay. Beverly has asked me to moderate tonight. The purpose for this visit, as I understand, is for Hani to tell us about her research and then for her to answer questions.
*Black says — what kind of research?
*Tammy says — I’ m going to find that out along with you all
*Active says — So she’s not looking for information from us?
*Strong says — Not at this time.
*Tammy says — this is not going to be a one on one thing, not at this time.
*Active says — Interesting.
*Tammy says — but she would like to have contact with some people here.
*Satyr says — This is a meeting to allow us to meet her and understand what she is trying to do/research.
*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
*Doggie says — No!
*Active listens.
*Kevin wows at Doggie
*Tammy pokes Doggie :)
*Mike nods
*Whitedog says — It’s only a little report, Active. Nothing’s going to be published.
*Active says — Oh?
*Tussle walks in
*SIGN ON — [[Hani Miletski|HANI MILETSKI]], MSW
*Active says — Hi Hani!
*Satyr says — Heya Hani :)
*Thrill lifts Kevin up... “ can you see?”
*Tammy says — Hi Hani
*Jim tacklehugs Hani
*Black says — Hi Hani
*Mike says — hello then :)
*Alex says — hi Hani
*Foxi says — Hi Hani
*Tussle spyhops
*Satyr says — Welcome to the Forest, or “ total chaos” as it sometimes is ;)
*Troy says — hi all
*Tammy says — I am explaining what’s going on to everyone. My name is Tammy, and I will try to moderate tonight. I would like to use the same method as we did for other meetings... talking one at a time, and if you wish to talk, use a 🐾 to indicate that.
*Cocco says — hello everyone
*Tammy says — Kevin, can you keep track of who is next to talk for me?
*Kevin says — okay, let me get some scritch paper
*Urge splashes Race [[Horse]]
*Jim thwapples Race Horse gently
*Axiom says — Hi Active
*Redcow sits and moos
*Craig walks in
*Prince appears from nowhere!
*Mic walks in
*Littlehorse walks in
*Full walks in
*Mic grabs the couch
*Zoro walks in
*Mike sits next to Mic
*Foxi says — eekk, what a crowded hallway!
*Alex snags a spot on the couch
*Foxi sits by Mic
*Whitedog lays on Mike and Mic :)
*Beverly says — okay, people, Hani isn’ t used to the net, so don’ t spam her, please.
*Full eats outa his feeder
*Word walks in
*Active nods
*Redcow lies down and ruminates...
*Jim finds a piece of carpet to lay on, and pulls Race Horse down on top of him, skritching his tummy
*Active grins
*Dolphin reads the message board.
*Race Horse yeeeps and stretches on Jim, “ Mmmmmmm!”
*Tammy says — While Hani is talking, please do not interrupt.
*Hani says — Hi everybody. Just wanted to let you know that it’s my first time on the net and I’ m very slow at this, so please be patient. Do you have any questions for me?
*Black says — hi Hani
*Mike says — hello Hani :)
*Active says — Hi Hani
*Holland bids you all good morning!
*Foxi says — Hi Hani
*Dolphin says — Hello Hani!
*Tammy says — Welcome Hani
*Mic says — hi Hani
*Doggie says — hi Hani. We spoke on der phone
*Prince says — howdy!
*Alex says — greetings Hani
*Satyr bows in greeting to Hani
*Jim waves
*Littlehorse says — hi, we spoke
*Trouble clicks hello! :)
*Race Horse bows, “ Hello Hani. I’ m a complete stranger.”
*Whitedog waves to Hani. Then sits and pays attention.
*Littlehorse says — 🐾
*Sheep knocks on the door
*Holland says — Hani, what is the purpose of your study? What do you hope to get out of it?
*Crocodile appears from nowhere!
*Hani says — Basically, I want to get all the info. I can get about [[bestiality]] and [[zoophilia]], and more specifically if this is a form of sexual orientation.
*Active says — 🐾
*Jim says — 🐾
*Dog appears form nowhere!
*Wolfie arrives in a blinding flash!
*Kevin says — Littlehorse is next
*Satyr says — 🐾
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Littlehorse says — okay, could you tell us where besides here you find sources of information? Or put differently, are all your sources Internet typoes of one sort or another?
*Prince says — 🐾
*Horselover walks in
*Lamb walks in
*Hani says — I am hoping to get all of your cooperation in that, so that you tell others who are not connected to the net about me.
*Littlehorse says — okay, thanks
*Kevin says — Active is next
*Active says — I don’ t think there’s any question that zooness is a sexual orientation, like being hetero or gay or bi.
*Race Horse says — 🐾
*Dolphin is ignoring everyone.
*Hani says — but I don’ t think other people know that (I don’ t know that either, but I hope to find out)
*Dolphin is now listening
*Active nods and says — That’s part of the problem: they think we do it because we can’ t get a human:)
*Hani says — right. I get a lot of that from people who have no idea about the subject.
*Tammy says — 🐾
*Burro walks in
*Mike says — 🐾
*Kevin says — Jim is next
*Jim says — I just wanted to make a clarification; when you say “sexual orientation” you are saying in contrast to a kink, or sexual behavior, like bondage/frottage/etc... So, in your research you are trying to determine if zoophilia is in fact an orientation and not just a kink?
*Hani says — Yes, a sexual orientation like homosexuality.
*Pony says — 🐾
*Littlehorse says — 🐾
*Mic says — 🐾
*Kevin says — Satyr is next
*Satyr takes a deep breath and says — I think we would all like to get a little background as to why you are gathering this information. What is already out there on the subject, and what do you hope to contribute to the psychological community by doing this study? I know you’re planning on putting together a rather lengthy questionnaire for those who choose to partake in the study. Do you have any ideas as to what its content will be?
*Satyr yields the floor
*Hani says — I know there is not a lot out there, and that’s why I want to do something about it. The questionnaire will probably be long, and will include questions about your sex life, as well as questions about your life in general, such as level of education, age, etc. I will have questions with different options for you to choose from, and I will also allow you to elaborate on your feelings, thoughts, and experiences, so that I can get more info.
*Satyr nods and thanks Hani
*Star walks in
*Active says — 🐾
*Moo arrives in a blinding flash!
*Wolf walks in
*Prince says — that was my question. I was curious as to when you...oops, sorry...
*Kevin tickles Prince ;)
*Fortune walks in
*Kevin nods to Doggie and says — Doggie is next
*Doggie says — thanks. Are the study results to be widely published in some form? Might it mean a change of term from zoophilie to something like [[zoosexual]] which indicates an orientation rather than a mental illness? Yields der floor.
*Hani says — I don’ t know. Haven’ t thought about it. I am hoping to have enough info. to be able to
*publish it in a book.
*Doggie says — thank you.
*Kevin tickles Doggie — limit your questions silly ;)
*Breath knocks on the door and walks in
*Fortune curls up quietly on the floor...
*Hani says — next question
*Redcow says — 🐾
*Kevin hands the microphone to Prince
*Prince says — I’ m a professor of photography. I will be happy to do the illustrations, Hani 🐾laughs🐾... seriously, your form sounds interesting. When will they be available and how do we get them? Thank
you.
*Hani says — good question. It will probably be ready, hopefully, before the summer. I need you to call me at (###) ###-####, to tell me how can I send it to you, since I have no regular access to the net. If anyone is long distance, you can call me, and I’ ll call you right back, so don’ t worry about the charges. Even if you are in a different country.
*Black says — 🐾
*Holland says — 🐾
*Active says — 🐾
*Word reads the mail
*Kevin says — Race Horse, your turn
*Race Horse walks up to the mic and baps it on his head. “ Ow.”
*Tammy smiles
*Fortune smiles
*Hani says — Hani too (I’ m starting to get the hang of this).
*Two knocks on the door
*Foxi perks her ears
*Race Horse says — insomuch as zoophilia being considered a [[sexuality]], I do agree that it is. But I think it is vastly different from homosexuality on a few points. In my experience, the majority of
[[zoophiles]] or zoosexuals, whatever you call it, had mostly environmental factors that made them that way, for the most part. I imagine all of us have an “ affinity” toward animals. But by and large, I suspect most here grew up spending much time alone, and turned to non-humans as a means of support and friendship. To many of us, it seems only logical to take that a step [[further]] and extend those relationships into the areas of [[intimacy]]. More and more it seems homosexuality is becoming linked to genetics. This may be true of zoophiles to a degree, but only marginally.
*Hani says — everything is possible. I hope to find out more about it in the future.
*Race Horse says — a person may have had an abusive family, for instance, and formed a relationship with his dog.
*Hani says — right! That’s why this will be one of my questions in the questionnaire.
*Fortune nods
*Race Horse says — I think you’ ll find scenarios like this abundant when you talk to the rest of us.
*Tammy says — thanks Race Horse
*Race Horse is finished, now that his face is blue.
*Spike walks in
*Black applauds
*Crocodile says — 🐾
*Kevin passes the mic to Lamb
*Lamb says — is your research going to look at the zoophiles’ other relationships as well? I’ m currently in a relationship and have told her about my interests. It worked out well for me, but others were not so lucky.
*Hani says — yes. I’ m happy for you. It must have been difficult for you.
*Moo smiles
*Tammy says — Hani, many of my friends here are very concerned about privacy. What kind of guarantees do they have this will all be in confidence? And can we work together to set up something so that their privacy can be maintained? I mean like a go between... or something. Oh, one more... are you interested in zoo-friendly’s?
*Hani says — Well, the questionnaire is anonymous. I am not going to include any personal info. on you in my study. All I need is a name and an address to send it to you. When you send it back you don’ t have to put your address on. (Beverly, who is sitting next to me, is telling me that Tammy is not a zoo, but a “ zoo-friendly.” She likes to hang out with zoos and help them when they need her help). The people who qualify for my study are those who have had [[Sexual Contact with Animals|sexual contact with animals]]! Sorry.
*Tammy says — you understand, Hani, that many people here can be arrested for this. Maybe the form can be made available electronically on one of the zoo sites?
*Hani says — the problem with that is that I will have no idea who was the respondent, and I can get people who just played a trick on me.
*Tammy says — I could be an intermediary, if people trusted me...
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Moo says — 🐾
*Whitedog says — 🐾
*Two says — 🐾
*Full says — 🐾
*Alex grins
*Active says — 🐾
*Ron says — 🐾
*Woof goes to the forest
*Goat goes to the forest
*Kevin says — okay, the list is over 17 long now. Trouble is next, but Black has to leave soon.
*Tammy says — Black...
*Black says — is the research you do here going to be used as part of any graduate work? And for what specific purpose?
*Hani says — I am a doctoral student in [[human sexuality]]. This is my dissertation research.
*Black waves bye to everyone and says — okay, thank you
*Hani says — bye
*Dogman arrives in a blinding flash!
*GW appears from nowhere!
*Mike says — what prompted you to do this research?
*Hani says — I am a psychotherapist in my profession. I have a client who is a zoo, and I was trying to get some [[literature]] for him, but found almost nothing. So I figured that this subject needs to be
researched and published.
*Mike smiles. “ Thank you” :)
*Wildlife walks in.
*Trouble says — two parts: 1. What specific research question do you want to answer, or are you just gathering general information about zoophilia?
*Hani says — generally, both. Specifically, is there such a thing as a sexual orientation toward animals?
*Trouble says — 2. How do you plan to address the obvious bias that 🐾we🐾 as power computer users, are just a subset of the total [[zoo community]]?
*Hani says — I know, that’s a problem. I will have to address that in my dissertation as a limitation of my study. But, I am hoping to get people who are not in the net as well.
*Trouble hopes so too and yields the floor
*Sunshine walks in
*Pony says — is it your goal to attempt an origin theory on zoophilia, or the coping mechanisms that various zoos have developed in order to function within [[society]]?
*Hani says — I guess both. It will be great if I can get the answers to all of that.
*Pony says — can I squeeze in another one?
*Hani says — a ha
*Pony says — what are your current beliefs about the origin of zoophilia: biological, psychological, or sociological?
*Hani says — currently I have no actual beliefs. I don’ t want to get into this research project with biases.
*Moo nods
*Lamb says — good answer :)
*Hani says — thanks. Who’s next?
*Mic says — sorry, Hani, I’ m confused. So far, it seems that you are only gathering information. You have not formulated any specific question which you are trying to answer. I do not think that I want to be involved in just an information gathering without knowing to what end the information I give will be used.
Hani says — basically yes. But, I said earlier that I am trying to find out if there is a sexual orientation
toward animals.
*Mic says — of course there is, or we wouldn’ t be here :)
*Hani says — I believe that whatever I find will be important and worthwhile, since most people have no clue about this subject, including psychotherapists who are supposed to help people deal with that.
*Mic says — help people deal with what? What do you mean by “ deal with it.” ?
*Tammy says — Mic, there are many issues to be “ dealt with.” I’ m sure Hani is not saying it is wrong
*Mic says — sorry, but I do not feel like I am getting solid answers
*GW nods in agreement
*Hani says — with their struggles. I know that a lot of you thought at one point or another that you are the only one, and that something is wrong with you, and there was no one to talk to about it, and nothing to read... So I think it is important to get people to know more, and not be judgmental.
*Mic says — okay. Then that would be a purpose that I would be willing to participate in. I yield.
*Hani says — great. Thanks!
*Tammy says — just an FYI, I’ ve discussed zoophilia with my therapist, she knew nothing about it.
*Mike says — 🐾
*Blackhorse walks in
*Active says — okay, here it goes, this is going to be long. First, I think I speak for the majority when I say I do not approve of asking zoos for a mailing address, under any circumstances, even if you don’ t connect the answers to the individual respondents. Sorry to come so hard, but using snail mail is extremely dangerous for items of a sexual nature, especially where that nature is illegal in some areas. Sending bestiality information, even a survey response, through the mail can be a Federal offense, so everyone who replies may become a criminal. I second Tam’s recommendation that you make the form available at one or more of the more popular zoo web pages. This should make distribution easy and very safe. Those of us with zoo friends not connected to the net can pass the info along by ourselves and relay it via email through a trusted intermediary. As for people who play a trick on you, that’ ll happen no matter what method you use for gathering the data. Masters and Johnson faced it, and so did Margaret Mead. It simply goes with the territory. Sex is prone to pranksters. And for the record, I never thought there was anything “ wrong” with me :) Finally, in more mundane matters, have you read “ the Horseman” by Mark Matthews? I haven’ t read it myself, but it is highly recommended.
*Race Horse grabs a bucket of popcorn
*Hani says — well, first, please don’ t write so much at one time... I’ m a slow reader :) Active apologizes — I’ m leaving soon, so I threw up my queue all at once :)
*Hani says — I read the book, and even talked to the author. This was one of the things that inspired me to do the research. I already have about 20 people who have given me their addresses. I know it is dangerous, but if you don’ t put your address, the police can only arrest me.
*Active says — but if someone wanted to compile a list of zoos, this is how one would do it. In order to receive a form, one must send out an address, so the list compiler knows at least you’re a zoo.
*Hani says — I highly doubt that anyone is going to open the mail. Also, I send you the questionnaire, and when you send it back, no one knows who it is from. I promise not to give out and not to use the list I have in any form or shape. I don’ t know what else I can tell you.
*Beverly says — if she was to give out personal information after gathering it into a list, she would be censured by her university. No reputable researcher gives out personal information on subjects
*Mike nods
*Hani says — and I will also loose my credentials as a psychotherapist
*Breath says — and our name would be prisoner 9243b
*Blackhorse says — hehe
*Active turns on his total paranoia mode — if you are really a researcher and not a Fed. Sorry, it had to be said. Paranoia mode off :(
*Foxi grins
*Active now yields the floor. Promise :)
*Kevin tickles Active, mainly cause it’s fun ;)
*Beverly says — I look around Hani’s room, at the literature and [[Module:Documentation|documentation]] already gathered on the subject, and wonder if Hani could really be a Fed. I don’ t think so.
*Hani says — thanks.
*World walks in
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Foxi says — 🐾
*Deer walks in
*Copy arrives in a blinding flash!
*Full says — 🐾
*Redcow says — are the questionnaires going to be given to non-zoos for comparison? How are you
going to compare the question results?
*Hani says — that’s a very good idea. I’ ll have to talk to my committee members about it.
*Redcow says — Will it be qualitative or quantitative? Will questions be leading? Will you use open
or closed answers?
*Hani says — both. I’ ll have open-ended questions as well as multiple choice ones.
*Redcow says — will you take into account the socio-economic factors? And even geographical
location? Age? Sex? Etc.
*Hani says — yes, all of the above.
*Redcow says — how will you present them to the subject?
*Hani says — what do you mean?
*Redcow says — well, do you ask your subject about economics, or do you use census data?
*Hani says — I ask. Probably will give a few options to choose from.
*Redcow says — sorry, you seem to have misunderstood. Are you going to find further data about the
subject from previous surveys, using say their address to find their socio-economic class. Also, have
you had any papers published in journals etc. before?
*Hani says — I will have to look at other studies, but I don’ t think anyone has studied it before, at least
as far as I know. I will only use the info you give me. Im not going to spy on you in any other way. I
don’ t even ask questions on the phone when people call me. And I have not yet published anything,
but my master’s thesis is going to be published probably in January.
*Redcow says — 2 last questions. Very short, are you going to look at the species of animal the subject
likes, and the age at which they started?
*Hani says — Sure. That’s very important info.
*Tammy says — good questions Redcow
*Jim says — there is only a tiny amount of literature out there on the topic, and what there is of it is
largely outdated... so Hani has a job cut out for her, due to the scarcity of prior work. I’ m not sure
she’s even gotten a chance to formulate the kinds of questions she wants to ask. This is going to be a
very big synthesis.
*Ball walks in
*Kevin notes — the list: Holland, Breath, Doggie, Moo, Two, Full, Ron, Mini, Kevin, Mike, Foxi,
Sunshine, so you can all know who is in front of you and get ready :-)
*Holland stands up clears his throat and says — just want to know, in the UK, are you going to snail
mail the questionnaires over to us? Also, what sort of time do you accept phone calls bearing in mind
our time difference. Is the questionnaire going to be based in a sexual context? Or will there be an
emotional content as well. For instance, to me, sex is not the only consideration. It covers the whole
spectrum just like in human relationships.
*Hani says — yes, I’ ll have to send it by regular mail. I am going to ask about the emotional aspect as
well, cause this is part of it, as far as I understand.
Copy nods
*Holland says — my overriding concern is my horse’s happiness, not my own. I’ ll do anything for
that.
*Moo smiles at Holland
*Mike nods enthusiastically
*Hani says — there’s 6 hours difference between DC and UK. So just calculate the time, whenever you
want
*Holland says — Hani, and you’ ll call back to the UK??? That’s expensive.
*Hani says — sure I’ ll call!!!
*Mike says — cool :)
*Tammy says — okay Holland?
*Holland says — umm... I think those bits about the emotional aspects and such was it.
*Tammy says — Breath is next
*Kevin suddenly notes the absence of a microphone in his hand!! Giggles
*Tammy says — oops! Did I mess up?
*Tammy sits back and lets Kevin do his job — sorry :)
*Breath says — the thing that worries me the most is the anonymity. Let me get this right, you want
me to give my entire address to a complete stranger about a subject which is completely illegal in the
UK and carries a maximum penalty of life sentence for an unclear advantage?
*Hani says — I know I am asking you to trust me and you don’ t even know me. I’ m asking a lot, but
what else can I do?
*Tammy says — you are with two people we do trust, Hani. I’ m sure we can figure something out.
*Hani says — thanks Tammy
*Breath says — make the form available via a web site or send it out via... What do you hope to
actually achieve with this whole thing? Who will be able to see it? The general public? The
psychiatry community? Or just a few professors in a small university?
*Hani says — currently I am not connected to the net, so that’s a problem. We’ ll see. I’ m hoping to
publish it as a book, and have in mind to make presentations to professionals in various conferences.
*Littlehorse is satisfied and will answer the questionnaire when it appears
*Hani says — thank you Littlehorse
*Breath is afraid he’s not going to touch this. Sounds too fishy to him
*Hani says — why Breath?
*Tammy says — everyone is entitled to their own opinion
*Hani says — true, but still, I need as many people as I can get. The more people I have, the more
credible the study will be
*Breath says — exactly, and my opinion is that I am not going to give my home address to anyone I
don’ t know real well, or without a good reason. Who’s to say that Hani is not someone collecting
addresses of zoos for various reasons. Ours is not a simple life. People would see us persecuted at
every chance. And why the curiosity over this subject in particular? Is there a reason?
*Hani says — I understand you. That’s why I want you to call me, so you may get to know me better.
I explained earlier.
*Tammy says — she has gone over that. I’ m recording and will make the file available
*Breath says — sorry, I didn’ t see that
*Hani says — that’s okay. Feel free to call me
*Breath says — why don’ t you just conduct some interviews here? Lock a room and interview people. Anonymous and easy.
*Tammy says — she has no net access
*Breath says — how is she here now then?
*Beverly says — we came over to her house with a laptop and signed on through our account
*Breath sits down and listens
*Breath says — Beverly is with her in real life?
*Tammy says — yes
*Breath didn’ t know this fact :)
*Beverly says — we are here, it’s our computer, and we trust Hani
*Breath would have been a lot more chilled out had someone told him this
*Hani says — that’s okay. I’ m glad you are with us
*Race Horse says — I’ m sorry Hani. I don’ t think I can trust you. I think you’re an alien from Dimension X
*Tammy says — let’s let Hani continue with her answers
*Doggie says — I believe Hani is a medical professional bound by rules of ethics/client confidentiality. Those concerned about their address should use a P.O. Box, or not participate, perhaps. Email/second party and web pages can be meddled with. Test is not illegal to mail, or “ The Horseman” could never be mailed. Overseas mail coming in to the US is subject to search at customs.
*Moo waits patiently for his turn
*Kevin passes the mic over
*Moo says — first of all I’ m hoping you’ ll realize how important it is for you to make this available to
as many as possible, through whatever means possible. We treasure our anonymity dearly and we
must protect ourselves foremost. I’ m wondering how many different ways you’re going to crossreference the data. There are a lot of demographics to consider: those who are straight/bi/gay with
people. Those who aren’ t involved with people at all, those who are married/divorced/re-married, race,religion, present age, “starting” age, animal of choice, etc. Are you just going to look for commonalities and then go from there? I’ m just wondering if you’ ll put more importance behind the [[statistics]] or from personal anecdotes? Cause I believe that you may learn a lot more from talking to us as opposed to just getting us to list off answers to questions.
*Mike nods
*GW nods too and says — good question Moo
*Hani says — I am hoping to get qualitative as well as quantitative info, and the questionnaire will probably be long
*Moo says — alright. Willya accept a collect call on Monday? :)
*Hani says — yes! Please!
*Moo smiles and gets his dialing finger ready ;)
*Horselover says — 🐾
*Two says — I would like to add to the “ orientation” question first. Yes, I think there is definitely a sexual orientation toward animals, be it genetic or learned. I am as much aroused by my mares as my wife, and sometimes will drift off and remember past encounters. Second, one thing at least for me is the lack of false pretenses with all animals. Face it, humans will lie. If you do something an animal doesn’ t like, you will know, as you will know if you do something they like. I have spent many hours just scratching an itchy spot and have seen a look that means “I really like that.”
*Tammy says — Two, do you have a question Hani can answer for you?
*Two says — uh, guess not.
*Tammy smiles at Two and says — you will have time to chat with Hani on the phone.
*Active says — 🐾
*Copy says — 🐾
*Ron, looking at the big picture, wonders if Hani’s research is aimed at pulling zoophilia back into the realm of normal sexuality, where it was once before, or further define it as a perversion that does not produce children to further the ideology of our society.
*Hani says — I have no such aim. My intention is to provide objective data so that people will know about zoophilia and maybe understand it better. I will have to analyze all the findings and put it in some form in my dissertation, and afterwards in my future book. I am still in the beginning process of my work, so it will take some time, and a lot of work...
*Race Horse expects a full report, with cover and illustrations on his desk tomorrow.
*Fur appears from nowhere!
*Pope appears from nowhere!
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Kevin sits on Race Horse
*Pope laughs
*Kevin smiles
*Race Horse winks at Hani
*Mini says — Hani, please forgive if I sound stern in what I say, no disrespect is intended, and please excuse my slow typing. First, I saw you mention “ committee.” Will these people be privy to the personal info that I give you, should I decide to do so? How many others, besides yourself will be privy to that info?
*Hani says — no one. Just me
*Mini says — I do not mean to sound paranoid, but...
*Hani says — I understand
*Race Horse says — Hani no esta los federales
*Mini says — these people here are my family. I [[love]] them all, and am fearful of this whole thing. But
*Beverly seems to trust you, and so will I.
*Mike smiles
*Hani says — thanks
*Mini says — but please understand my and others fear
*Hani says — I do
*Mini says — thank you. Sorry for rehashing an old question
*Hani says — that’s fine :)
*Tammy hugs Mini tightly
*Race Horse huggles Mini too
*Ron grins and hugs Mini tightly
*Strong says — 🐾
*Kevin says — at the start you mentioned that the reason you are doing this at all is a result of a patient of yours. I know that you can’ t tell us who the patient is, but I might be so bold as to say that there are many folks here who have found “ acceptance” here, online. It might be a thought for your patient to “ come here” sometimes. They could, of course, be anonymous unless they chose to say anything about it.
*Hani says — I know. I’ ll keep that in mind
*Race Horse notes that the “ acceptance” found here is a double edged sword. It ain’ t always a bouquet of roses.
*Kevin says — that’s it. And I’ ll be calling you sometime
*Hani says — thanks
*Sunshine says — would you send several questionnaires to New Zealand, as I know some here that would fill them out?
*Hani says — yes, but I would like to talk to you on the phone first. Call me and I’ ll call you back.
*Horselover says — I’ ve been discussing mailing the questionnaire with an Australian Customs Officer, and in her off-duty opinion, it’s unlikely that any harm would come to "me" sending the response. But text on bestiality, with details, is a prohibited import everywhere she knows about.
*Hani says — I know, I’ m the only one at risk
*Horselover says — so, effectively, Hani, I would be getting "you" to break the law by answering your questions in detail. How are you going to deal with it in the small chance that someone does check the mail.
*Jim says — but it could be reasonably argued that it’s not erotica
*Pope wonders if the academic nature of the material wouldn’ t protect it
*Hani says — Jim and Pope are probably right, hopefully :)
*Polo appears from nowhere!
*Bobby walks in
*Kevin nuzzles Bobby
*Copy says — did anyone ask if repression because of religion becomes involved for the person, and the ramifications of that and on altered social behavior for not being who you are and what outlets does this altered behavior take? Is this going to be contained in the report?
*Hani says — these are all good ideas for questions. Thank you.
*Copy says — Also, are you going to include, for those of us who are married who’s spouses know about their zoo life, any questions for them?
*Hani says — no, but I’ ll ask you about it.
*Copy says — okay. That was it for me.
*Mustang appears from nowhere!
*Doggie says — they consider us to be dog rapists who should be castrated and jailed. Bringing out "too" much info publically may make them, the Humane Society, and animal rights groups more aware of an "organized network" with possibly bad consequences. What is Hani’s view on this additional exposure risk?
*Hani says — that’s a good one. Let me think...
*Doggie says — people laugh at sex with horses, but get mighty pissed if they think a dog is being abused.
*Hani says — there are always risks, but I hope that my study will show people the humane side of it, and that it’s not abuse.
*Strong says — neither Hani nor I nor anyone else pretends there isn’ t some risk here, possibly serious risk. But it is worth noting that I don’ t believe the risk lies with Hani. I pride myself on being an accomplished sniffer of fakes and Feds, and I’ m betting she’s neither. Nevertheless, as you all seem to know, you don’ t have 100% protection. Yes, you will take an enormous risk receiving the questionnaire, and I don’ t think anyone would hold it against you if you chose to abstain from the survey for that very reason. There is more, though. This is also, to some extent, about sacrifice. In taking this risk, you would be contributing to the first ever serious research about zoophilia.
*Active says — people who don’ t know about places like [[alt.sex.bestiality]] and the Forest are probably worse off than any of us.
*Strong says — this is your chance to make a difference. There is, of course, the distinct possibility that Hani will be an unwilling and/or unwitting participant in an FBI operation. They can tap her phones, search her files, raid her records, on a whim. They can decide to use the information to arrest us all, or just keep it for... a rainy day, as it were. They can, of course, do the same to each of us should they want to badly enough. Of course, I don’ t know what would happen to non-Americans, but I would expect it would be similar in Canada, and possibly the UK. However, that risk has always been present
*Jim says — I don’ t think the Feds are in the habit of raiding university psych labs.
*Bobby says — 🐾
*Active says — 🐾
*Kevin passes the mic over to Bobby
*Bobby says — quite a few questions related to professional things. First, do you have a pre-approved committee? You cannot conduct psychological research or experimentation without committee approval. It is illegal. Without this approval, your doctoral thesis will be disqualified.
*Hani says — I already have an approval
*Bobby says — is the institution accredited, and if so, by who?
*Beverly says — Hani is looking up the accreditation and will be right back. Good questions!
*Tammy says — how is she holding up?
*Beverly says — I’ m more tired than she is. She’s excited about the people being willing to help and this whole new medium.
*Hani says — I’ m back. The school has full educational approval as a California degree granting institution by the California State Department of Education, Private Post-secondary Education Division
*Bobby says — okay. Which research model are you using? And what statistical method of tabulation?
*Hani says — It’s too soon. I don’ t know yet. I am still gathering data and trying to find out how many people will volunteer for the research. I have professional researchers who volunteered to help me with it.
*Bobby says — is not trying to give you the 5th degree, just verifying validity :)
*Hani says — I appreciate it
*Active says — Hani, would you consider a chi-square analysis of 90% to be statistically significant?
*Hani says — I have to go back to my statistics books for that one :)
*Active says — okay :)
*Tammy smiles and says — I think this is it
*GW says — 🐾
*Hani says — GW, what was your question?
*GW — I was just wondering if there was anyway I could talk to you outside the usual business hours, as I work and I can’ t talk at work. We are very much monitored.
*Hani says — yes, call me and just leave your number and a good time to catch you, and I’ ll call you.
*GW says — thanks, I appreciate it. And thanks for taking the time to answer one last question
*Hani says — thank you.
*Bobby huggles Hani for her patience
*Whitedog grabs Tammy and does the tango!
*Hani says — and I want to thank everyone for their cooperation and, maybe even, trust in me
*Active says — you’re welcome, Hani
*GW says — you’re welcome, and come back and visit again
*Pope applauds Hani and especially the Wizards for their excellent crowd control
*Mike says — I would like to thank Hani for doing this research project and wish her good luck
*Whitedog says — you’ ll most likely be getting a call from me, Hani
*Active agrees with Whitedog
*GW says — also thanks to Beverly for giving Hani and us an opportunity to talk
*Mike says — I’ ll be calling too
*GW says — Tammy, how long did the meeting run approximately?
*Tammy says — about 250 minutes :)
*Bobby says — wow!
*Hani says — wow!
*GW offers fresh popcorn to everyone
*Mike grabs a donut and fires up the espresso machine
*Hani says — good night everyone. We are going to sleep :)

Hani Miletski's Chat Logs

2021-06-20T04:44:35Z

Quantumhusky:

==Pending Format Fix==

*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
*Tammy shouts — I’ m going to be moderating tonight
*Active says — Moderate away, Tam :)
*Tammy shouts — Those of you planning on attending the thing with Hani, please come down here
*Tammy says — Okay. Beverly has asked me to moderate tonight. The purpose for this visit, as I understand, is for Hani to tell us about her research and then for her to answer questions.
*Black says — what kind of research?
*Tammy says — I’ m going to find that out along with you all
*Active says — So she’s not looking for information from us?
*Strong says — Not at this time.
*Tammy says — this is not going to be a one on one thing, not at this time.
*Active says — Interesting.
*Tammy says — but she would like to have contact with some people here.
*Satyr says — This is a meeting to allow us to meet her and understand what she is trying to do/research.
*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
*Doggie says — No!
*Active listens.
*Kevin wows at Doggie
*Tammy pokes Doggie :)
*Mike nods
*Whitedog says — It’s only a little report, Active. Nothing’s going to be published.
*Active says — Oh?
*Tussle walks in
*SIGN ON — [[Hani Miletski|HANI MILETSKI]], MSW
*Active says — Hi Hani!
*Satyr says — Heya Hani :)
*Thrill lifts Kevin up... “ can you see?”
*Tammy says — Hi Hani
*Jim tacklehugs Hani
*Black says — Hi Hani
*Mike says — hello then :)
*Alex says — hi Hani
*Foxi says — Hi Hani
*Tussle spyhops
*Satyr says — Welcome to the Forest, or “ total chaos” as it sometimes is ;)
*Troy says — hi all
*Tammy says — I am explaining what’s going on to everyone. My name is Tammy, and I will try to moderate tonight. I would like to use the same method as we did for other meetings... talking one at a time, and if you wish to talk, use a 🐾 to indicate that.
*Cocco says — hello everyone
*Tammy says — Kevin, can you keep track of who is next to talk for me?
*Kevin says — okay, let me get some scritch paper
*Urge splashes Race [[Horse]]
*Jim thwapples Race Horse gently
*Axiom says — Hi Active
*Redcow sits and moos
*Craig walks in
*Prince appears from nowhere!
*Mic walks in
*Littlehorse walks in
*Full walks in
*Mic grabs the couch
*Zoro walks in
*Mike sits next to Mic
*Foxi says — eekk, what a crowded hallway!
*Alex snags a spot on the couch
*Foxi sits by Mic
*Whitedog lays on Mike and Mic :)
*Beverly says — okay, people, Hani isn’ t used to the net, so don’ t spam her, please.
*Full eats outa his feeder
*Word walks in
*Active nods
*Redcow lies down and ruminates...
*Jim finds a piece of carpet to lay on, and pulls Race Horse down on top of him, skritching his tummy
*Active grins
*Dolphin reads the message board.
*Race Horse yeeeps and stretches on Jim, “ Mmmmmmm!”
*Tammy says — While Hani is talking, please do not interrupt.
*Hani says — Hi everybody. Just wanted to let you know that it’s my first time on the net and I’ m very slow at this, so please be patient. Do you have any questions for me?
*Black says — hi Hani
*Mike says — hello Hani :)
*Active says — Hi Hani
*Holland bids you all good morning!
*Foxi says — Hi Hani
*Dolphin says — Hello Hani!
*Tammy says — Welcome Hani
*Mic says — hi Hani
*Doggie says — hi Hani. We spoke on der phone
*Prince says — howdy!
*Alex says — greetings Hani
*Satyr bows in greeting to Hani
*Jim waves
*Littlehorse says — hi, we spoke
*Trouble clicks hello! :)
*Race Horse bows, “ Hello Hani. I’ m a complete stranger.”
*Whitedog waves to Hani. Then sits and pays attention.
*Littlehorse says — 🐾
*Sheep knocks on the door
*Holland says — Hani, what is the purpose of your study? What do you hope to get out of it?
*Crocodile appears from nowhere!
*Hani says — Basically, I want to get all the info. I can get about [[bestiality]] and [[zoophilia]], and more specifically if this is a form of sexual orientation.
*Active says — 🐾
*Jim says — 🐾
*Dog appears form nowhere!
*Wolfie arrives in a blinding flash!
*Kevin says — Littlehorse is next
*Satyr says — 🐾
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Littlehorse says — okay, could you tell us where besides here you find sources of information? Or put differently, are all your sources Internet typoes of one sort or another?
*Prince says — 🐾
*Horselover walks in
*Lamb walks in
*Hani says — I am hoping to get all of your cooperation in that, so that you tell others who are not connected to the net about me.
*Littlehorse says — okay, thanks
*Kevin says — Active is next
*Active says — I don’ t think there’s any question that zooness is a sexual orientation, like being hetero or gay or bi.
*Race Horse says — 🐾
*Dolphin is ignoring everyone.
*Hani says — but I don’ t think other people know that (I don’ t know that either, but I hope to find out)
*Dolphin is now listening
*Active nods and says — That’s part of the problem: they think we do it because we can’ t get a human:)
*Hani says — right. I get a lot of that from people who have no idea about the subject.
*Tammy says — 🐾
*Burro walks in
*Mike says — 🐾
*Kevin says — Jim is next
*Jim says — I just wanted to make a clarification; when you say “sexual orientation” you are saying in contrast to a kink, or sexual behavior, like bondage/frottage/etc... So, in your research you are trying to determine if zoophilia is in fact an orientation and not just a kink?
*Hani says — Yes, a sexual orientation like homosexuality.
*Pony says — 🐾
*Littlehorse says — 🐾
*Mic says — 🐾
*Kevin says — Satyr is next
*Satyr takes a deep breath and says — I think we would all like to get a little background as to why you are gathering this information. What is already out there on the subject, and what do you hope to contribute to the psychological community by doing this study? I know you’re planning on putting together a rather lengthy questionnaire for those who choose to partake in the study. Do you have any ideas as to what its content will be?
*Satyr yields the floor
*Hani says — I know there is not a lot out there, and that’s why I want to do something about it. The questionnaire will probably be long, and will include questions about your sex life, as well as questions about your life in general, such as level of education, age, etc. I will have questions with different options for you to choose from, and I will also allow you to elaborate on your feelings, thoughts, and experiences, so that I can get more info.
*Satyr nods and thanks Hani
*Star walks in
*Active says — 🐾
*Moo arrives in a blinding flash!
*Wolf walks in
*Prince says — that was my question. I was curious as to when you...oops, sorry...
*Kevin tickles Prince ;)
*Fortune walks in
*Kevin nods to Doggie and says — Doggie is next
*Doggie says — thanks. Are the study results to be widely published in some form? Might it mean a change of term from zoophilie to something like [[zoosexual]] which indicates an orientation rather than a mental illness? Yields der floor.
*Hani says — I don’ t know. Haven’ t thought about it. I am hoping to have enough info. to be able to
*publish it in a book.
*Doggie says — thank you.
*Kevin tickles Doggie — limit your questions silly ;)
*Breath knocks on the door and walks in
*Fortune curls up quietly on the floor...
*Hani says — next question
*Redcow says — 🐾
*Kevin hands the microphone to Prince
*Prince says — I’ m a professor of photography. I will be happy to do the illustrations, Hani 🐾laughs🐾... seriously, your form sounds interesting. When will they be available and how do we get them? Thank
you.
*Hani says — good question. It will probably be ready, hopefully, before the summer. I need you to call me at (###) ###-####, to tell me how can I send it to you, since I have no regular access to the net. If anyone is long distance, you can call me, and I’ ll call you right back, so don’ t worry about the charges. Even if you are in a different country.
*Black says — 🐾
*Holland says — 🐾
*Active says — 🐾
*Word reads the mail
*Kevin says — Race Horse, your turn
*Race Horse walks up to the mic and baps it on his head. “ Ow.”
*Tammy smiles
*Fortune smiles
*Hani says — Hani too (I’ m starting to get the hang of this).
*Two knocks on the door
*Foxi perks her ears
*Race Horse says — insomuch as zoophilia being considered a [[sexuality]], I do agree that it is. But I think it is vastly different from homosexuality on a few points. In my experience, the majority of
[[zoophiles]] or zoosexuals, whatever you call it, had mostly environmental factors that made them that way, for the most part. I imagine all of us have an “ affinity” toward animals. But by and large, I suspect most here grew up spending much time alone, and turned to non-humans as a means of support and friendship. To many of us, it seems only logical to take that a step [[further]] and extend those relationships into the areas of [[intimacy]]. More and more it seems homosexuality is becoming linked to genetics. This may be true of zoophiles to a degree, but only marginally.
*Hani says — everything is possible. I hope to find out more about it in the future.
*Race Horse says — a person may have had an abusive family, for instance, and formed a relationship with his dog.
*Hani says — right! That’s why this will be one of my questions in the questionnaire.
*Fortune nods
*Race Horse says — I think you’ ll find scenarios like this abundant when you talk to the rest of us.
*Tammy says — thanks Race Horse
*Race Horse is finished, now that his face is blue.
*Spike walks in
*Black applauds
*Crocodile says — 🐾
*Kevin passes the mic to Lamb
*Lamb says — is your research going to look at the zoophiles’ other relationships as well? I’ m currently in a relationship and have told her about my interests. It worked out well for me, but others were not so lucky.
*Hani says — yes. I’ m happy for you. It must have been difficult for you.
*Moo smiles
*Tammy says — Hani, many of my friends here are very concerned about privacy. What kind of guarantees do they have this will all be in confidence? And can we work together to set up something so that their privacy can be maintained? I mean like a go between... or something. Oh, one more... are you interested in zoo-friendly’s?
*Hani says — Well, the questionnaire is anonymous. I am not going to include any personal info. on you in my study. All I need is a name and an address to send it to you. When you send it back you don’ t have to put your address on. (Beverly, who is sitting next to me, is telling me that Tammy is not a zoo, but a “ zoo-friendly.” She likes to hang out with zoos and help them when they need her help). The people who qualify for my study are those who have had [[Sexual Contact with Animals|sexual contact with animals]]! Sorry.
*Tammy says — you understand, Hani, that many people here can be arrested for this. Maybe the form can be made available electronically on one of the zoo sites?
*Hani says — the problem with that is that I will have no idea who was the respondent, and I can get people who just played a trick on me.
*Tammy says — I could be an intermediary, if people trusted me...
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Moo says — 🐾
*Whitedog says — 🐾
*Two says — 🐾
*Full says — 🐾
*Alex grins
*Active says — 🐾
*Ron says — 🐾
*Woof goes to the forest
*Goat goes to the forest
*Kevin says — okay, the list is over 17 long now. Trouble is next, but Black has to leave soon.
*Tammy says — Black...
*Black says — is the research you do here going to be used as part of any graduate work? And for what specific purpose?
*Hani says — I am a doctoral student in [[human sexuality]]. This is my dissertation research.
*Black waves bye to everyone and says — okay, thank you
*Hani says — bye
*Dogman arrives in a blinding flash!
*GW appears from nowhere!
*Mike says — what prompted you to do this research?
*Hani says — I am a psychotherapist in my profession. I have a client who is a zoo, and I was trying to get some [[literature]] for him, but found almost nothing. So I figured that this subject needs to be
researched and published.
*Mike smiles. “ Thank you” :)
*Wildlife walks in.
*Trouble says — two parts: 1. What specific research question do you want to answer, or are you just gathering general information about zoophilia?
*Hani says — generally, both. Specifically, is there such a thing as a sexual orientation toward animals?
*Trouble says — 2. How do you plan to address the obvious bias that 🐾we🐾 as power computer users, are just a subset of the total [[zoo community]]?
*Hani says — I know, that’s a problem. I will have to address that in my dissertation as a limitation of my study. But, I am hoping to get people who are not in the net as well.
*Trouble hopes so too and yields the floor
*Sunshine walks in
*Pony says — is it your goal to attempt an origin theory on zoophilia, or the coping mechanisms that various zoos have developed in order to function within [[society]]?
*Hani says — I guess both. It will be great if I can get the answers to all of that.
*Pony says — can I squeeze in another one?
*Hani says — a ha
*Pony says — what are your current beliefs about the origin of zoophilia: biological, psychological, or sociological?
*Hani says — currently I have no actual beliefs. I don’ t want to get into this research project with biases.
*Moo nods
*Lamb says — good answer :)
*Hani says — thanks. Who’s next?
*Mic says — sorry, Hani, I’ m confused. So far, it seems that you are only gathering information. You have not formulated any specific question which you are trying to answer. I do not think that I want to be involved in just an information gathering without knowing to what end the information I give will be used.
Hani says — basically yes. But, I said earlier that I am trying to find out if there is a sexual orientation
toward animals.
*Mic says — of course there is, or we wouldn’ t be here :)
*Hani says — I believe that whatever I find will be important and worthwhile, since most people have no clue about this subject, including psychotherapists who are supposed to help people deal with that.
*Mic says — help people deal with what? What do you mean by “ deal with it.” ?
*Tammy says — Mic, there are many issues to be “ dealt with.” I’ m sure Hani is not saying it is wrong
*Mic says — sorry, but I do not feel like I am getting solid answers
*GW nods in agreement
*Hani says — with their struggles. I know that a lot of you thought at one point or another that you are the only one, and that something is wrong with you, and there was no one to talk to about it, and nothing to read... So I think it is important to get people to know more, and not be judgmental.
*Mic says — okay. Then that would be a purpose that I would be willing to participate in. I yield.
*Hani says — great. Thanks!
*Tammy says — just an FYI, I’ ve discussed zoophilia with my therapist, she knew nothing about it.
*Mike says — 🐾
*Blackhorse walks in
*Active says — okay, here it goes, this is going to be long. First, I think I speak for the majority when I say I do not approve of asking zoos for a mailing address, under any circumstances, even if you don’ t connect the answers to the individual respondents. Sorry to come so hard, but using snail mail is extremely dangerous for items of a sexual nature, especially where that nature is illegal in some areas. Sending bestiality information, even a survey response, through the mail can be a Federal offense, so everyone who replies may become a criminal. I second Tam’s recommendation that you make the form available at one or more of the more popular zoo web pages. This should make distribution easy and very safe. Those of us with zoo friends not connected to the net can pass the info along by ourselves and relay it via email through a trusted intermediary. As for people who play a trick on you, that’ ll happen no matter what method you use for gathering the data. Masters and Johnson faced it, and so did Margaret Mead. It simply goes with the territory. Sex is prone to pranksters. And for the record, I never thought there was anything “ wrong” with me :) Finally, in more mundane matters, have you read “ the Horseman” by Mark Matthews? I haven’ t read it myself, but it is highly recommended.
*Race Horse grabs a bucket of popcorn
*Hani says — well, first, please don’ t write so much at one time... I’ m a slow reader :) Active apologizes — I’ m leaving soon, so I threw up my queue all at once :)
*Hani says — I read the book, and even talked to the author. This was one of the things that inspired me to do the research. I already have about 20 people who have given me their addresses. I know it is dangerous, but if you don’ t put your address, the police can only arrest me.
*Active says — but if someone wanted to compile a list of zoos, this is how one would do it. In order to receive a form, one must send out an address, so the list compiler knows at least you’re a zoo.
*Hani says — I highly doubt that anyone is going to open the mail. Also, I send you the questionnaire, and when you send it back, no one knows who it is from. I promise not to give out and not to use the list I have in any form or shape. I don’ t know what else I can tell you.
*Beverly says — if she was to give out personal information after gathering it into a list, she would be censured by her university. No reputable researcher gives out personal information on subjects
*Mike nods
*Hani says — and I will also loose my credentials as a psychotherapist
*Breath says — and our name would be prisoner 9243b
*Blackhorse says — hehe
*Active turns on his total paranoia mode — if you are really a researcher and not a Fed. Sorry, it had to be said. Paranoia mode off :(
*Foxi grins
*Active now yields the floor. Promise :)
*Kevin tickles Active, mainly cause it’s fun ;)
*Beverly says — I look around Hani’s room, at the literature and [[Module:Documentation|documentation]] already gathered on the subject, and wonder if Hani could really be a Fed. I don’ t think so.
*Hani says — thanks.
*World walks in
*Doggie says — 🐾
*Foxi says — 🐾
*Deer walks in
*Copy arrives in a blinding flash!
*Full says — 🐾
*Redcow says — are the questionnaires going to be given to non-zoos for comparison? How are you
going to compare the question results?
Hani says — that’s a very good idea. I’ ll have to talk to my committee members about it.
Redcow says — Will it be qualitative or quantitative? Will questions be leading? Will you use open
or closed answers?
Hani says — both. I’ ll have open-ended questions as well as multiple choice ones.
Redcow says — will you take into account the socio-economic factors? And even geographical
location? Age? Sex? Etc.
Hani says — yes, all of the above.
Redcow says — how will you present them to the subject?
Hani says — what do you mean?
Redcow says — well, do you ask your subject about economics, or do you use census data?
Hani says — I ask. Probably will give a few options to choose from.
Redcow says — sorry, you seem to have misunderstood. Are you going to find further data about the
subject from previous surveys, using say their address to find their socio-economic class. Also, have
you had any papers published in journals etc. before?
Hani says — I will have to look at other studies, but I don’ t think anyone has studied it before, at least
as far as I know. I will only use the info you give me. Im not going to spy on you in any other way. I
don’ t even ask questions on the phone when people call me. And I have not yet published anything,
but my master’s thesis is going to be published probably in January.
Redcow says — 2 last questions. Very short, are you going to look at the species of animal the subject
likes, and the age at which they started?
Hani says — Sure. That’s very important info.
Tammy says — good questions Redcow
Jim says — there is only a tiny amount of literature out there on the topic, and what there is of it is
largely outdated... so Hani has a job cut out for her, due to the scarcity of prior work. I’ m not sure
she’s even gotten a chance to formulate the kinds of questions she wants to ask. This is going to be a
very big synthesis.
Ball walks in
Kevin notes — the list: Holland, Breath, Doggie, Moo, Two, Full, Ron, Mini, Kevin, Mike, Foxi,
Sunshine, so you can all know who is in front of you and get ready :-)
Holland stands up clears his throat and says — just want to know, in the UK, are you going to snail
mail the questionnaires over to us? Also, what sort of time do you accept phone calls bearing in mind
our time difference. Is the questionnaire going to be based in a sexual context? Or will there be an
emotional content as well. For instance, to me, sex is not the only consideration. It covers the whole
spectrum just like in human relationships.
Hani says — yes, I’ ll have to send it by regular mail. I am going to ask about the emotional aspect as
well, cause this is part of it, as far as I understand.
Copy nods
Holland says — my overriding concern is my horse’s happiness, not my own. I’ ll do anything for
that.
Moo smiles at Holland
Mike nods enthusiastically
Hani says — there’s 6 hours difference between DC and UK. So just calculate the time, whenever you
want
Holland says — Hani, and you’ ll call back to the UK??? That’s expensive.
Hani says — sure I’ ll call!!!
Mike says — cool :)
Tammy says — okay Holland?
Holland says — umm... I think those bits about the emotional aspects and such was it.
Tammy says — Breath is next
Kevin suddenly notes the absence of a microphone in his hand!! Giggles
Tammy says — oops! Did I mess up?
Tammy sits back and lets Kevin do his job — sorry :)
Breath says — the thing that worries me the most is the anonymity. Let me get this right, you want
me to give my entire address to a complete stranger about a subject which is completely illegal in the
UK and carries a maximum penalty of life sentence for an unclear advantage?
Hani says — I know I am asking you to trust me and you don’ t even know me. I’ m asking a lot, but
what else can I do?
Tammy says — you are with two people we do trust, Hani. I’ m sure we can figure something out.
Hani says — thanks Tammy
Breath says — make the form available via a web site or send it out via... What do you hope to
actually achieve with this whole thing? Who will be able to see it? The general public? The
psychiatry community? Or just a few professors in a small university?
Hani says — currently I am not connected to the net, so that’s a problem. We’ ll see. I’ m hoping to
publish it as a book, and have in mind to make presentations to professionals in various conferences.
Littlehorse is satisfied and will answer the questionnaire when it appears
Hani says — thank you Littlehorse
Breath is afraid he’s not going to touch this. Sounds too fishy to him
Hani says — why Breath?
Tammy says — everyone is entitled to their own opinion
Hani says — true, but still, I need as many people as I can get. The more people I have, the more
credible the study will be
Breath says — exactly, and my opinion is that I am not going to give my home address to anyone I
don’ t know real well, or without a good reason. Who’s to say that Hani is not someone collecting
addresses of zoos for various reasons. Ours is not a simple life. People would see us persecuted at
every chance. And why the curiosity over this subject in particular? Is there a reason?
Hani says — I understand you. That’s why I want you to call me, so you may get to know me better.
I explained earlier.
Tammy says — she has gone over that. I’ m recording and will make the file available
Breath says — sorry, I didn’ t see that
Hani says — that’s okay. Feel free to call me
Breath says — why don’ t you just conduct some interviews here? Lock a room and interview people.
Anonymous and easy.
Tammy says — she has no net access
Breath says — how is she here now then?
Beverly says — we came over to her house with a laptop and signed on through our account
Breath sits down and listens
Breath says — Beverly is with her in real life?
Tammy says — yes
Breath didn’ t know this fact :)
Beverly says — we are here, it’s our computer, and we trust Hani
Breath would have been a lot more chilled out had someone told him this
Hani says — that’s okay. I’ m glad you are with us
Race Horse says — I’ m sorry Hani. I don’ t think I can trust you. I think you’re an alien from
Dimension X
Tammy says — let’s let Hani continue with her answers
Doggie says — I believe Hani is a medical professional bound by rules of ethics/client confidentiality.
Those concerned about their address should use a P.O. Box, or not participate, perhaps. Email/second
party and web pages can be meddled with. Test is not illegal to mail, or “ The Horseman” could never
be mailed. Overseas mail coming in to the US is subject to search at customs.
Moo waits patiently for his turn
Kevin passes the mic over
Moo says — first of all I’ m hoping you’ ll realize how important it is for you to make this available to
as many as possible, through whatever means possible. We treasure our anonymity dearly and we
must protect ourselves foremost. I’ m wondering how many different ways you’re going to crossreference the data. There are a lot of demographics to consider: those who are straight/bi/gay with
people. Those who aren’ t involved with people at all, those who are married/divorced/re-married, race,religion, present age, “starting” age, animal of choice, etc. Are you just going to look for commonalities and then go from there? I’ m just wondering if you’ ll put more importance behind the [[statistics]] or from personal anecdotes? Cause I believe that you may learn a lot more from talking to us as opposed to just getting us to list off answers to questions.
Mike nods
GW nods too and says — good question Moo
Hani says — I am hoping to get qualitative as well as quantitative info, and the questionnaire will
probably be long
Moo says — alright. Willya accept a collect call on Monday? :)
Hani says — yes! Please!
Moo smiles and gets his dialing finger ready ;)
Horselover says — 🐾
Two says — I would like to add to the “ orientation” question first. Yes, I think there is definitely a
sexual orientation toward animals, be it genetic or learned. I am as much aroused by my mares as my
wife, and sometimes will drift off and remember past encounters. Second, one thing at least for me is
the lack of false pretenses with all animals. Face it, humans will lie. If you do something an animal
doesn’ t like, you will know, as you will know if you do something they like. I have spent many hours
just scratching an itchy spot and have seen a look that means “I really like that.”
Tammy says — Two, do you have a question Hani can answer for you?
Two says — uh, guess not.
Tammy smiles at Two and says — you will have time to chat with Hani on the phone.
Active says — 🐾
Copy says — 🐾
Ron, looking at the big picture, wonders if Hani’s research is aimed at pulling zoophilia back into the
realm of normal sexuality, where it was once before, or further define it as a perversion that does not
produce children to further the ideology of our society.
Hani says — I have no such aim. My intention is to provide objective data so that people will know
about zoophilia and maybe understand it better. I will have to analyze all the findings and put it in
some form in my dissertation, and afterwards in my future book. I am still in the beginning process of
my work, so it will take some time, and a lot of work...
Race Horse expects a full report, with cover and illustrations on his desk tomorrow.
Fur appears from nowhere!
Pope appears from nowhere!
Doggie says — 🐾
Kevin sits on Race Horse
Pope laughs
Kevin smiles
Race Horse winks at Hani
Mini says — Hani, please forgive if I sound stern in what I say, no disrespect is intended, and please
excuse my slow typing. First, I saw you mention “ committee.” Will these people be privy to the
personal info that I give you, should I decide to do so? How many others, besides yourself will be
privy to that info?
Hani says — no one. Just me
Mini says — I do not mean to sound paranoid, but...
Hani says — I understand
Race Horse says — Hani no esta los federales
Mini says — these people here are my family. I [[love]] them all, and am fearful of this whole thing. But
Beverly seems to trust you, and so will I.
Mike smiles
Hani says — thanks
Mini says — but please understand my and others fear
Hani says — I do
Mini says — thank you. Sorry for rehashing an old question
Hani says — that’s fine :)
Tammy hugs Mini tightly
Race Horse huggles Mini too
Ron grins and hugs Mini tightly
Strong says — 🐾
Kevin says — at the start you mentioned that the reason you are doing this at all is a result of a patient
of yours. I know that you can’ t tell us who the patient is, but I might be so bold as to say that there are
many folks here who have found “ acceptance” here, online. It might be a thought for your patient to
“ come here” sometimes. They could, of course, be anonymous unless they chose to say anything
about it.
Hani says — I know. I’ ll keep that in mind
Race Horse notes that the “ acceptance” found here is a double edged sword. It ain’ t always a bouquet
of roses.
Kevin says — that’s it. And I’ ll be calling you sometime
Hani says — thanks
Sunshine says — would you send several questionnaires to New Zealand, as I know some here that
would fill them out?
Hani says — yes, but I would like to talk to you on the phone first. Call me and I’ ll call you back.
Horselover says — I’ ve been discussing mailing the questionnaire with an Australian Customs
Officer, and in her off-duty opinion, it’s unlikely that any harm would come to 🐾me🐾 sending the
response. But text on bestiality, with details, is a prohibited import everywhere she knows about.
Hani says — I know, I’ m the only one at risk
Horselover says — so, effectively, Hani, I would be getting 🐾you🐾 to break the law by answering your
questions in detail. How are you going to deal with it in the small chance that someone does check the
mail.
Jim says — but it could be reasonably argued that it’s not erotica
Pope wonders if the academic nature of the material wouldn’ t protect it
Hani says — Jim and Pope are probably right, hopefully :)
Polo appears from nowhere!
Bobby walks in
Kevin nuzzles Bobby
Copy says — did anyone ask if repression because of religion becomes involved for the person, and
the ramifications of that and on altered social behavior for not being who you are and what outlets does
this altered behavior take? Is this going to be contained in the report?
Hani says — these are all good ideas for questions. Thank you.
Copy says — Also, are you going to include, for those of us who are married who’s spouses know
about their zoo life, any questions for them?
Hani says — no, but I’ ll ask you about it.
Copy says — okay. That was it for me.
Mustang appears from nowhere!
Doggie says — they consider us to be dog rapists who should be castrated and jailed. Bringing out
🐾too🐾 much info publically may make them, the Humane Society, and animal rights groups more
aware of an 🐾organized network🐾 with possibly bad consequences. What is Hani’s view on this
additional exposure risk?
Hani says — that’s a good one. Let me think...
Doggie says — people laugh at sex with horses, but get mighty pissed if they think a dog is being
abused.
Hani says — there are always risks, but I hope that my study will show people the humane side of it,
and that it’s not abuse.
Strong says — neither Hani nor I nor anyone else pretends there isn’ t some risk here, possibly serious
risk. But it is worth noting that I don’ t believe the risk lies with Hani. I pride myself on being an
accomplished sniffer of fakes and Feds, and I’ m betting she’s neither. Nevertheless, as you all seem to
know, you don’ t have 100% protection. Yes, you will take an enormous risk receiving the
questionnaire, and I don’ t think anyone would hold it against you if you chose to abstain from the
survey for that very reason. There is more, though. This is also, to some extent, about sacrifice. In
taking this risk, you would be contributing to the first ever serious research about zoophilia.
Active says — people who don’ t know about places like [[alt.sex.bestiality]] and the Forest are probably
worse off than any of us.
Strong says — this is your chance to make a difference. There is, of course, the distinct possibility
that Hani will be an unwilling and/or unwitting participant in an FBI operation. They can tap her
phones, search her files, raid her records, on a whim. They can decide to use the information to arrest
us all, or just keep it for... a rainy day, as it were. They can, of course, do the same to each of us
should they want to badly enough. Of course, I don’ t know what would happen to non-Americans, but
I would expect it would be similar in Canada, and possibly the UK. However, that risk has always
been present
Jim says — I don’ t think the Feds are in the habit of raiding university psych labs.
Bobby says — 🐾
Active says — 🐾
Kevin passes the mic over to Bobby
Bobby says — quite a few questions related to professional things. First, do you have a pre-approved
committee? You cannot conduct psychological research or experimentation without committee
approval. It is illegal. Without this approval, your doctoral thesis will be disqualified.
Hani says — I already have an approval
Bobby says — is the institution accredited, and if so, by who?
Beverly says — Hani is looking up the accreditation and will be right back. Good questions!
Tammy says — how is she holding up?
Beverly says — I’ m more tired than she is. She’s excited about the people being willing to help and
this whole new medium.
Hani says — I’ m back. The school has full educational approval as a California degree granting
institution by the California State Department of Education, Private Post-secondary Education Division
Bobby says — okay. Which research model are you using? And what statistical method of
tabulation?
*Hani says — It’s too soon. I don’ t know yet. I am still gathering data and trying to find out how many people will volunteer for the research. I have professional researchers who volunteered to help me with it.
*Bobby says — is not trying to give you the 5th degree, just verifying validity :)
*Hani says — I appreciate it
*Active says — Hani, would you consider a chi-square analysis of 90% to be statistically significant?
*Hani says — I have to go back to my statistics books for that one :)
*Active says — okay :)
*Tammy smiles and says — I think this is it
*GW says — 🐾
*Hani says — GW, what was your question?
*GW — I was just wondering if there was anyway I could talk to you outside the usual business hours, as I work and I can’ t talk at work. We are very much monitored.
*Hani says — yes, call me and just leave your number and a good time to catch you, and I’ ll call you.
*GW says — thanks, I appreciate it. And thanks for taking the time to answer one last question
*Hani says — thank you.
*Bobby huggles Hani for her patience
*Whitedog grabs Tammy and does the tango!
*Hani says — and I want to thank everyone for their cooperation and, maybe even, trust in me
*Active says — you’re welcome, Hani
*GW says — you’re welcome, and come back and visit again
*Pope applauds Hani and especially the Wizards for their excellent crowd control
*Mike says — I would like to thank Hani for doing this research project and wish her good luck
*Whitedog says — you’ ll most likely be getting a call from me, Hani
*Active agrees with Whitedog
*GW says — also thanks to Beverly for giving Hani and us an opportunity to talk
*Mike says — I’ ll be calling too
*GW says — Tammy, how long did the meeting run approximately?
*Tammy says — about 250 minutes :)
*Bobby says — wow!
*Hani says — wow!
*GW offers fresh popcorn to everyone
*Mike grabs a donut and fires up the espresso machine
*Hani says — good night everyone. We are going to sleep :)

Hani Miletski's Chat Logs

2021-06-20T04:32:02Z

Quantumhusky:

==Pending Format Fix==

*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
*Tammy shouts — I’ m going to be moderating tonight
*Active says — Moderate away, Tam :)
*Tammy shouts — Those of you planning on attending the thing with Hani, please come down here
*Tammy says — Okay. Beverly has asked me to moderate tonight. The purpose for this visit, as I
understand, is for Hani to tell us about her research and then for her to answer questions.
*Black says — what kind of research?
*Tammy says — I’ m going to find that out along with you all
*Active says — So she’s not looking for information from us?
*Strong says — Not at this time.
*Tammy says — this is not going to be a one on one thing, not at this time.
*Active says — Interesting.
*Tammy says — but she would like to have contact with some people here.
*Satyr says — This is a meeting to allow us to meet her and understand what she is trying to
do/research.
*Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
Doggie says — No!
Active listens.
Kevin wows at Doggie
Tammy pokes Doggie :)
Mike nods
Whitedog says — It’s only a little report, Active. Nothing’s going to be published.
Active says — Oh?
Tussle walks in
SIGN ON — [[Hani Miletski|HANI MILETSKI]], MSW
Active says — Hi Hani!
Satyr says — Heya Hani :)
Thrill lifts Kevin up... “ can you see?”
Tammy says — Hi Hani
Jim tacklehugs Hani
Black says — Hi Hani
Mike says — hello then :)
Alex says — hi Hani
Foxi says — Hi Hani
Tussle spyhops
Satyr says — Welcome to the Forest, or “ total chaos” as it sometimes is ;)
Troy says — hi all
Tammy says — I am explaining what’s going on to everyone. My name is Tammy, and I will try to
moderate tonight. I would like to use the same method as we did for other meetings... talking one at a
time, and if you wish to talk, use a 🐾 to indicate that.
Cocco says — hello everyone
Tammy says — Kevin, can you keep track of who is next to talk for me?
Kevin says — okay, let me get some scritch paper
Urge splashes Race [[Horse]]
Jim thwapples Race Horse gently
Axiom says — Hi Active
Redcow sits and moos
Craig walks in
Prince appears from nowhere!
Mic walks in
Littlehorse walks in
Full walks in
Mic grabs the couch
Zoro walks in
Mike sits next to Mic
Foxi says — eekk, what a crowded hallway!
Alex snags a spot on the couch
Foxi sits by Mic
Whitedog lays on Mike and Mic :)
Beverly says — okay, people, Hani isn’ t used to the net, so don’ t spam her, please.
Full eats outa his feeder
Word walks in
Active nods
Redcow lies down and ruminates...
Jim finds a piece of carpet to lay on, and pulls Race Horse down on top of him, skritching his tummy
Active grins
Dolphin reads the message board.
Race Horse yeeeps and stretches on Jim, “ Mmmmmmm!”
Tammy says — While Hani is talking, please do not interrupt.
Hani says — Hi everybody. Just wanted to let you know that it’s my first time on the net and I’ m very
slow at this, so please be patient. Do you have any questions for me?
Black says — hi Hani
Mike says — hello Hani :)
Active says — Hi Hani
Holland bids you all good morning!
Foxi says — Hi Hani
Dolphin says — Hello Hani!
Tammy says — Welcome Hani
Mic says — hi Hani
Doggie says — hi Hani. We spoke on der phone
Prince says — howdy!
Alex says — greetings Hani
Satyr bows in greeting to Hani
Jim waves
Littlehorse says — hi, we spoke
Trouble clicks hello! :)
Race Horse bows, “ Hello Hani. I’ m a complete stranger.”
Whitedog waves to Hani. Then sits and pays attention.
Littlehorse says — 🐾
Sheep knocks on the door
Holland says — Hani, what is the purpose of your study? What do you hope to get out of it?
Crocodile appears from nowhere!
Hani says — Basically, I want to get all the info. I can get about [[bestiality]] and [[zoophilia]], and more
specifically if this is a form of sexual orientation.
Active says — 🐾
Jim says — 🐾
Dog appears form nowhere!
Wolfie arrives in a blinding flash!
Kevin says — Littlehorse is next
Satyr says — 🐾
Doggie says — 🐾
Littlehorse says — okay, could you tell us where besides here you find sources of information? Or
put differently, are all your sources Internet typoes of one sort or another?
Prince says — 🐾
Horselover walks in
Lamb walks in
Hani says — I am hoping to get all of your cooperation in that, so that you tell others who are not
connected to the net about me.
Littlehorse says — okay, thanks
Kevin says — Active is next
Active says — I don’ t think there’s any question that zooness is a sexual orientation, like being hetero
or gay or bi.
Race Horse says — 🐾
Dolphin is ignoring everyone.
Hani says — but I don’ t think other people know that (I don’ t know that either, but I hope to find out)
Dolphin is now listening
Active nods and says — That’s part of the problem: they think we do it because we can’ t get a human:)
Hani says — right. I get a lot of that from people who have no idea about the subject.
Tammy says — 🐾
Burro walks in
Mike says — 🐾
Kevin says — Jim is next
Jim says — I just wanted to make a clarification; when you say “sexual orientation” you are saying in
contrast to a kink, or sexual behavior, like bondage/frottage/etc... So, in your research you are trying to
determine if zoophilia is in fact an orientation and not just a kink?
Hani says — Yes, a sexual orientation like homosexuality.
Pony says — 🐾
Littlehorse says — 🐾
Mic says — 🐾
Kevin says — Satyr is next
Satyr takes a deep breath and says — I think we would all like to get a little background as to why you
are gathering this information. What is already out there on the subject, and what do you hope to
contribute to the psychological community by doing this study? I know you’re planning on putting
together a rather lengthy questionnaire for those who choose to partake in the study. Do you have any
ideas as to what its content will be?
Satyr yields the floor
Hani says — I know there is not a lot out there, and that’s why I want to do something about it. The
questionnaire will probably be long, and will include questions about your sex life, as well as questions
about your life in general, such as level of education, age, etc. I will have questions with different
options for you to choose from, and I will also allow you to elaborate on your feelings, thoughts, and
experiences, so that I can get more info.
Satyr nods and thanks Hani
Star walks in
Active says — 🐾
Moo arrives in a blinding flash!
Wolf walks in
Prince says — that was my question. I was curious as to when you...oops, sorry...
Kevin tickles Prince ;)
Fortune walks in
Kevin nods to Doggie and says — Doggie is next
Doggie says — thanks. Are the study results to be widely published in some form? Might it mean a
change of term from zoophilie to something like [[zoosexual]] which indicates an orientation rather than a
mental illness? Yields der floor.
Hani says — I don’ t know. Haven’ t thought about it. I am hoping to have enough info. to be able to
publish it in a book.
Doggie says — thank you.
Kevin tickles Doggie — limit your questions silly ;)
Breath knocks on the door and walks in
Fortune curls up quietly on the floor...
Hani says — next question
Redcow says — 🐾
Kevin hands the microphone to Prince
Prince says — I’ m a professor of photography. I will be happy to do the illustrations, Hani 🐾laughs🐾...
seriously, your form sounds interesting. When will they be available and how do we get them? Thank
you.
Hani says — good question. It will probably be ready, hopefully, before the summer. I need you to
call me at (202) 659-4938, to tell me how can I send it to you, since I have no regular access to the net.
If anyone is long distance, you can call me, and I’ ll call you right back, so don’ t worry about the
charges. Even if you are in a different country.
Black says — 🐾
Holland says — 🐾
Active says — 🐾
Word reads the mail
Kevin says — Race Horse, your turn
Race Horse walks up to the mic and baps it on his head. “ Ow.”
Tammy smiles
Fortune smiles
Hani says — Hani too (I’ m starting to get the hang of this).
Two knocks on the door
Foxi perks her ears
Race Horse says — insomuch as zoophilia being considered a [[sexuality]], I do agree that it is. But I
think it is vastly different from homosexuality on a few points. In my experience, the majority of
[[zoophiles]] or zoosexuals, whatever you call it, had mostly environmental factors that made them that
way, for the most part. I imagine all of us have an “ affinity” toward animals. But by and large, I
suspect most here grew up spending much time alone, and turned to non-humans as a means of support
and friendship. To many of us, it seems only logical to take that a step [[further]] and extend those
relationships into the areas of [[intimacy]]. More and more it seems homosexuality is becoming linked to
genetics. This may be true of zoophiles to a degree, but only marginally.
Hani says — everything is possible. I hope to find out more about it in the future.
Race Horse says — a person may have had an abusive family, for instance, and formed a relationship
with his dog.
Hani says — right! That’s why this will be one of my questions in the questionnaire.
Fortune nods
Race Horse says — I think you’ ll find scenarios like this abundant when you talk to the rest of us.
Tammy says — thanks Race Horse
Race Horse is finished, now that his face is blue.
Spike walks in
Black applauds
Crocodile says — 🐾
Kevin passes the mic to Lamb
Lamb says — is your research going to look at the zoophiles’ other relationships as well? I’ m
currently in a relationship and have told her about my interests. It worked out well for me, but others
were not so lucky.
Hani says — yes. I’ m happy for you. It must have been difficult for you.
Moo smiles
Tammy says — Hani, many of my friends here are very concerned about privacy. What kind of
guarantees do they have this will all be in confidence? And can we work together to set up something
so that their privacy can be maintained? I mean like a go between... or something. Oh, one more... are
you interested in zoo-friendly’s?
Hani says — Well, the questionnaire is anonymous. I am not going to include any personal info. on
you in my study. All I need is a name and an address to send it to you. When you send it back you
don’ t have to put your address on. (Beverly, who is sitting next to me, is telling me that Tammy is not
a zoo, but a “ zoo-friendly.” She likes to hang out with zoos and help them when they need her help).
The people who qualify for my study are those who have had [[Sexual Contact with Animals|sexual contact with animals]]! Sorry.
Tammy says — you understand, Hani, that many people here can be arrested for this. Maybe the form
can be made available electronically on one of the zoo sites?
Hani says — the problem with that is that I will have no idea who was the respondent, and I can get
people who just played a trick on me.
Tammy says — I could be an intermediary, if people trusted me...
Doggie says — 🐾
Moo says — 🐾
Whitedog says — 🐾
Two says — 🐾
Full says — 🐾
Alex grins
Active says — 🐾
Ron says — 🐾
Woof goes to the forest
Goat goes to the forest
Kevin says — okay, the list is over 17 long now. Trouble is next, but Black has to leave soon.
Tammy says — Black...
Black says — is the research you do here going to be used as part of any graduate work? And for what
specific purpose?
Hani says — I am a doctoral student in [[human sexuality]]. This is my dissertation research.
Black waves bye to everyone and says — okay, thank you
Hani says — bye
Dogman arrives in a blinding flash!
GW appears from nowhere!
Mike says — what prompted you to do this research?
Hani says — I am a psychotherapist in my profession. I have a client who is a zoo, and I was trying to
get some [[literature]] for him, but found almost nothing. So I figured that this subject needs to be
researched and published.
Mike smiles. “ Thank you” :)
Wildlife walks in.
Trouble says — two parts: 1. What specific research question do you want to answer, or are you just
gathering general information about zoophilia?
Hani says — generally, both. Specifically, is there such a thing as a sexual orientation toward
animals?
Trouble says — 2. How do you plan to address the obvious bias that 🐾we🐾 as power computer users,
are just a subset of the total [[zoo community]]?
Hani says — I know, that’s a problem. I will have to address that in my dissertation as a limitation of
my study. But, I am hoping to get people who are not in the net as well.
Trouble hopes so too and yields the floor
Sunshine walks in
Pony says — is it your goal to attempt an origin theory on zoophilia, or the coping mechanisms that
various zoos have developed in order to function within [[society]]?
Hani says — I guess both. It will be great if I can get the answers to all of that.
Pony says — can I squeeze in another one?
Hani says — a ha
Pony says — what are your current beliefs about the origin of zoophilia: biological, psychological, or
sociological?
Hani says — currently I have no actual beliefs. I don’ t want to get into this research project with
biases.
Moo nods
Lamb says — good answer :)
Hani says — thanks. Who’s next?
Mic says — sorry, Hani, I’ m confused. So far, it seems that you are only gathering information. You
have not formulated any specific question which you are trying to answer. I do not think that I want to
be involved in just an information gathering without knowing to what end the information I give will
be used.
Hani says — basically yes. But, I said earlier that I am trying to find out if there is a sexual orientation
toward animals.
Mic says — of course there is, or we wouldn’ t be here :)
Hani says — I believe that whatever I find will be important and worthwhile, since most people have
no clue about this subject, including psychotherapists who are supposed to help people deal with that.
Mic says — help people deal with what? What do you mean by “ deal with it.” ?
Tammy says — Mic, there are many issues to be “ dealt with.” I’ m sure Hani is not saying it is wrong
Mic says — sorry, but I do not feel like I am getting solid answers
GW nods in agreement
Hani says — with their struggles. I know that a lot of you thought at one point or another that you are
the only one, and that something is wrong with you, and there was no one to talk to about it, and
nothing to read... So I think it is important to get people to know more, and not be judgmental.
Mic says — okay. Then that would be a purpose that I would be willing to participate in. I yield.
Hani says — great. Thanks!
Tammy says — just an FYI, I’ ve discussed zoophilia with my therapist, she knew nothing about it.
Mike says — 🐾
Blackhorse walks in
Active says — okay, here it goes, this is going to be long. First, I think I speak for the majority when I
say I do not approve of asking zoos for a mailing address, under any circumstances, even if you don’ t
connect the answers to the individual respondents. Sorry to come so hard, but using snail mail is
extremely dangerous for items of a sexual nature, especially where that nature is illegal in some areas.
Sending bestiality information, even a survey response, through the mail can be a Federal offense, so
everyone who replies may become a criminal. I second Tam’s recommendation that you make the
form available at one or more of the more popular zoo web pages. This should make distribution easy
and very safe. Those of us with zoo friends not connected to the net can pass the info along by
ourselves and relay it via email through a trusted intermediary. As for people who play a trick on you,
that’ ll happen no matter what method you use for gathering the data. Masters and Johnson faced it,
and so did Margaret Mead. It simply goes with the territory. Sex is prone to pranksters. And for the
record, I never thought there was anything “ wrong” with me :) Finally, in more mundane matters,
have you read “ the Horseman” by Mark Matthews? I haven’ t read it myself, but it is highly
recommended.
Race Horse grabs a bucket of popcorn
Hani says — well, first, please don’ t write so much at one time... I’ m a slow reader :)
Active apologizes — I’ m leaving soon, so I threw up my queue all at once :)
Hani says — I read the book, and even talked to the author. This was one of the things that inspired
me to do the research. I already have about 20 people who have given me their addresses. I know it is
dangerous, but if you don’ t put your address, the police can only arrest me.
Active says — but if someone wanted to compile a list of zoos, this is how one would do it. In order
to receive a form, one must send out an address, so the list compiler knows at least you’re a zoo.
Hani says — I highly doubt that anyone is going to open the mail. Also, I send you the questionnaire,
and when you send it back, no one knows who it is from. I promise not to give out and not to use the
list I have in any form or shape. I don’ t know what else I can tell you.
Beverly says — if she was to give out personal information after gathering it into a list, she would be
censured by her university. No reputable researcher gives out personal information on subjects
Mike nods
Hani says — and I will also loose my credentials as a psychotherapist
Breath says — and our name would be prisoner 9243b
Blackhorse says — hehe
Active turns on his total paranoia mode — if you are really a researcher and not a Fed. Sorry, it had to
be said. Paranoia mode off :(
Foxi grins
Active now yields the floor. Promise :)
Kevin tickles Active, mainly cause it’s fun ;)
Beverly says — I look around Hani’s room, at the literature and [[Module:Documentation|documentation]] already gathered on
the subject, and wonder if Hani could really be a Fed. I don’ t think so.
Hani says — thanks.
World walks in
Doggie says — 🐾
Foxi says — 🐾
Deer walks in
Copy arrives in a blinding flash!
Full says — 🐾
Redcow says — are the questionnaires going to be given to non-zoos for comparison? How are you
going to compare the question results?
Hani says — that’s a very good idea. I’ ll have to talk to my committee members about it.
Redcow says — Will it be qualitative or quantitative? Will questions be leading? Will you use open
or closed answers?
Hani says — both. I’ ll have open-ended questions as well as multiple choice ones.
Redcow says — will you take into account the socio-economic factors? And even geographical
location? Age? Sex? Etc.
Hani says — yes, all of the above.
Redcow says — how will you present them to the subject?
Hani says — what do you mean?
Redcow says — well, do you ask your subject about economics, or do you use census data?
Hani says — I ask. Probably will give a few options to choose from.
Redcow says — sorry, you seem to have misunderstood. Are you going to find further data about the
subject from previous surveys, using say their address to find their socio-economic class. Also, have
you had any papers published in journals etc. before?
Hani says — I will have to look at other studies, but I don’ t think anyone has studied it before, at least
as far as I know. I will only use the info you give me. Im not going to spy on you in any other way. I
don’ t even ask questions on the phone when people call me. And I have not yet published anything,
but my master’s thesis is going to be published probably in January.
Redcow says — 2 last questions. Very short, are you going to look at the species of animal the subject
likes, and the age at which they started?
Hani says — Sure. That’s very important info.
Tammy says — good questions Redcow
Jim says — there is only a tiny amount of literature out there on the topic, and what there is of it is
largely outdated... so Hani has a job cut out for her, due to the scarcity of prior work. I’ m not sure
she’s even gotten a chance to formulate the kinds of questions she wants to ask. This is going to be a
very big synthesis.
Ball walks in
Kevin notes — the list: Holland, Breath, Doggie, Moo, Two, Full, Ron, Mini, Kevin, Mike, Foxi,
Sunshine, so you can all know who is in front of you and get ready :-)
Holland stands up clears his throat and says — just want to know, in the UK, are you going to snail
mail the questionnaires over to us? Also, what sort of time do you accept phone calls bearing in mind
our time difference. Is the questionnaire going to be based in a sexual context? Or will there be an
emotional content as well. For instance, to me, sex is not the only consideration. It covers the whole
spectrum just like in human relationships.
Hani says — yes, I’ ll have to send it by regular mail. I am going to ask about the emotional aspect as
well, cause this is part of it, as far as I understand.
Copy nods
Holland says — my overriding concern is my horse’s happiness, not my own. I’ ll do anything for
that.
Moo smiles at Holland
Mike nods enthusiastically
Hani says — there’s 6 hours difference between DC and UK. So just calculate the time, whenever you
want
Holland says — Hani, and you’ ll call back to the UK??? That’s expensive.
Hani says — sure I’ ll call!!!
Mike says — cool :)
Tammy says — okay Holland?
Holland says — umm... I think those bits about the emotional aspects and such was it.
Tammy says — Breath is next
Kevin suddenly notes the absence of a microphone in his hand!! Giggles
Tammy says — oops! Did I mess up?
Tammy sits back and lets Kevin do his job — sorry :)
Breath says — the thing that worries me the most is the anonymity. Let me get this right, you want
me to give my entire address to a complete stranger about a subject which is completely illegal in the
UK and carries a maximum penalty of life sentence for an unclear advantage?
Hani says — I know I am asking you to trust me and you don’ t even know me. I’ m asking a lot, but
what else can I do?
Tammy says — you are with two people we do trust, Hani. I’ m sure we can figure something out.
Hani says — thanks Tammy
Breath says — make the form available via a web site or send it out via... What do you hope to
actually achieve with this whole thing? Who will be able to see it? The general public? The
psychiatry community? Or just a few professors in a small university?
Hani says — currently I am not connected to the net, so that’s a problem. We’ ll see. I’ m hoping to
publish it as a book, and have in mind to make presentations to professionals in various conferences.
Littlehorse is satisfied and will answer the questionnaire when it appears
Hani says — thank you Littlehorse
Breath is afraid he’s not going to touch this. Sounds too fishy to him
Hani says — why Breath?
Tammy says — everyone is entitled to their own opinion
Hani says — true, but still, I need as many people as I can get. The more people I have, the more
credible the study will be
Breath says — exactly, and my opinion is that I am not going to give my home address to anyone I
don’ t know real well, or without a good reason. Who’s to say that Hani is not someone collecting
addresses of zoos for various reasons. Ours is not a simple life. People would see us persecuted at
every chance. And why the curiosity over this subject in particular? Is there a reason?
Hani says — I understand you. That’s why I want you to call me, so you may get to know me better.
I explained earlier.
Tammy says — she has gone over that. I’ m recording and will make the file available
Breath says — sorry, I didn’ t see that
Hani says — that’s okay. Feel free to call me
Breath says — why don’ t you just conduct some interviews here? Lock a room and interview people.
Anonymous and easy.
Tammy says — she has no net access
Breath says — how is she here now then?
Beverly says — we came over to her house with a laptop and signed on through our account
Breath sits down and listens
Breath says — Beverly is with her in real life?
Tammy says — yes
Breath didn’ t know this fact :)
Beverly says — we are here, it’s our computer, and we trust Hani
Breath would have been a lot more chilled out had someone told him this
Hani says — that’s okay. I’ m glad you are with us
Race Horse says — I’ m sorry Hani. I don’ t think I can trust you. I think you’re an alien from
Dimension X
Tammy says — let’s let Hani continue with her answers
Doggie says — I believe Hani is a medical professional bound by rules of ethics/client confidentiality.
Those concerned about their address should use a P.O. Box, or not participate, perhaps. Email/second
party and web pages can be meddled with. Test is not illegal to mail, or “ The Horseman” could never
be mailed. Overseas mail coming in to the US is subject to search at customs.
Moo waits patiently for his turn
Kevin passes the mic over
Moo says — first of all I’ m hoping you’ ll realize how important it is for you to make this available to
as many as possible, through whatever means possible. We treasure our anonymity dearly and we
must protect ourselves foremost. I’ m wondering how many different ways you’re going to crossreference the data. There are a lot of demographics to consider: those who are straight/bi/gay with
people. Those who aren’ t involved with people at all, those who are married/divorced/re-married, race,religion, present age, “starting” age, animal of choice, etc. Are you just going to look for commonalities and then go from there? I’ m just wondering if you’ ll put more importance behind the [[statistics]] or from personal anecdotes? Cause I believe that you may learn a lot more from talking to us as opposed to just getting us to list off answers to questions.
Mike nods
GW nods too and says — good question Moo
Hani says — I am hoping to get qualitative as well as quantitative info, and the questionnaire will
probably be long
Moo says — alright. Willya accept a collect call on Monday? :)
Hani says — yes! Please!
Moo smiles and gets his dialing finger ready ;)
Horselover says — 🐾
Two says — I would like to add to the “ orientation” question first. Yes, I think there is definitely a
sexual orientation toward animals, be it genetic or learned. I am as much aroused by my mares as my
wife, and sometimes will drift off and remember past encounters. Second, one thing at least for me is
the lack of false pretenses with all animals. Face it, humans will lie. If you do something an animal
doesn’ t like, you will know, as you will know if you do something they like. I have spent many hours
just scratching an itchy spot and have seen a look that means “I really like that.”
Tammy says — Two, do you have a question Hani can answer for you?
Two says — uh, guess not.
Tammy smiles at Two and says — you will have time to chat with Hani on the phone.
Active says — 🐾
Copy says — 🐾
Ron, looking at the big picture, wonders if Hani’s research is aimed at pulling zoophilia back into the
realm of normal sexuality, where it was once before, or further define it as a perversion that does not
produce children to further the ideology of our society.
Hani says — I have no such aim. My intention is to provide objective data so that people will know
about zoophilia and maybe understand it better. I will have to analyze all the findings and put it in
some form in my dissertation, and afterwards in my future book. I am still in the beginning process of
my work, so it will take some time, and a lot of work...
Race Horse expects a full report, with cover and illustrations on his desk tomorrow.
Fur appears from nowhere!
Pope appears from nowhere!
Doggie says — 🐾
Kevin sits on Race Horse
Pope laughs
Kevin smiles
Race Horse winks at Hani
Mini says — Hani, please forgive if I sound stern in what I say, no disrespect is intended, and please
excuse my slow typing. First, I saw you mention “ committee.” Will these people be privy to the
personal info that I give you, should I decide to do so? How many others, besides yourself will be
privy to that info?
Hani says — no one. Just me
Mini says — I do not mean to sound paranoid, but...
Hani says — I understand
Race Horse says — Hani no esta los federales
Mini says — these people here are my family. I [[love]] them all, and am fearful of this whole thing. But
Beverly seems to trust you, and so will I.
Mike smiles
Hani says — thanks
Mini says — but please understand my and others fear
Hani says — I do
Mini says — thank you. Sorry for rehashing an old question
Hani says — that’s fine :)
Tammy hugs Mini tightly
Race Horse huggles Mini too
Ron grins and hugs Mini tightly
Strong says — 🐾
Kevin says — at the start you mentioned that the reason you are doing this at all is a result of a patient
of yours. I know that you can’ t tell us who the patient is, but I might be so bold as to say that there are
many folks here who have found “ acceptance” here, online. It might be a thought for your patient to
“ come here” sometimes. They could, of course, be anonymous unless they chose to say anything
about it.
Hani says — I know. I’ ll keep that in mind
Race Horse notes that the “ acceptance” found here is a double edged sword. It ain’ t always a bouquet
of roses.
Kevin says — that’s it. And I’ ll be calling you sometime
Hani says — thanks
Sunshine says — would you send several questionnaires to New Zealand, as I know some here that
would fill them out?
Hani says — yes, but I would like to talk to you on the phone first. Call me and I’ ll call you back.
Horselover says — I’ ve been discussing mailing the questionnaire with an Australian Customs
Officer, and in her off-duty opinion, it’s unlikely that any harm would come to 🐾me🐾 sending the
response. But text on bestiality, with details, is a prohibited import everywhere she knows about.
Hani says — I know, I’ m the only one at risk
Horselover says — so, effectively, Hani, I would be getting 🐾you🐾 to break the law by answering your
questions in detail. How are you going to deal with it in the small chance that someone does check the
mail.
Jim says — but it could be reasonably argued that it’s not erotica
Pope wonders if the academic nature of the material wouldn’ t protect it
Hani says — Jim and Pope are probably right, hopefully :)
Polo appears from nowhere!
Bobby walks in
Kevin nuzzles Bobby
Copy says — did anyone ask if repression because of religion becomes involved for the person, and
the ramifications of that and on altered social behavior for not being who you are and what outlets does
this altered behavior take? Is this going to be contained in the report?
Hani says — these are all good ideas for questions. Thank you.
Copy says — Also, are you going to include, for those of us who are married who’s spouses know
about their zoo life, any questions for them?
Hani says — no, but I’ ll ask you about it.
Copy says — okay. That was it for me.
Mustang appears from nowhere!
Doggie says — they consider us to be dog rapists who should be castrated and jailed. Bringing out
🐾too🐾 much info publically may make them, the Humane Society, and animal rights groups more
aware of an 🐾organized network🐾 with possibly bad consequences. What is Hani’s view on this
additional exposure risk?
Hani says — that’s a good one. Let me think...
Doggie says — people laugh at sex with horses, but get mighty pissed if they think a dog is being
abused.
Hani says — there are always risks, but I hope that my study will show people the humane side of it,
and that it’s not abuse.
Strong says — neither Hani nor I nor anyone else pretends there isn’ t some risk here, possibly serious
risk. But it is worth noting that I don’ t believe the risk lies with Hani. I pride myself on being an
accomplished sniffer of fakes and Feds, and I’ m betting she’s neither. Nevertheless, as you all seem to
know, you don’ t have 100% protection. Yes, you will take an enormous risk receiving the
questionnaire, and I don’ t think anyone would hold it against you if you chose to abstain from the
survey for that very reason. There is more, though. This is also, to some extent, about sacrifice. In
taking this risk, you would be contributing to the first ever serious research about zoophilia.
Active says — people who don’ t know about places like [[alt.sex.bestiality]] and the Forest are probably
worse off than any of us.
Strong says — this is your chance to make a difference. There is, of course, the distinct possibility
that Hani will be an unwilling and/or unwitting participant in an FBI operation. They can tap her
phones, search her files, raid her records, on a whim. They can decide to use the information to arrest
us all, or just keep it for... a rainy day, as it were. They can, of course, do the same to each of us
should they want to badly enough. Of course, I don’ t know what would happen to non-Americans, but
I would expect it would be similar in Canada, and possibly the UK. However, that risk has always
been present
Jim says — I don’ t think the Feds are in the habit of raiding university psych labs.
Bobby says — 🐾
Active says — 🐾
Kevin passes the mic over to Bobby
Bobby says — quite a few questions related to professional things. First, do you have a pre-approved
committee? You cannot conduct psychological research or experimentation without committee
approval. It is illegal. Without this approval, your doctoral thesis will be disqualified.
Hani says — I already have an approval
Bobby says — is the institution accredited, and if so, by who?
Beverly says — Hani is looking up the accreditation and will be right back. Good questions!
Tammy says — how is she holding up?
Beverly says — I’ m more tired than she is. She’s excited about the people being willing to help and
this whole new medium.
Hani says — I’ m back. The school has full educational approval as a California degree granting
institution by the California State Department of Education, Private Post-secondary Education Division
Bobby says — okay. Which research model are you using? And what statistical method of
tabulation?
*Hani says — It’s too soon. I don’ t know yet. I am still gathering data and trying to find out how many people will volunteer for the research. I have professional researchers who volunteered to help me with it.
*Bobby says — is not trying to give you the 5th degree, just verifying validity :)
*Hani says — I appreciate it
*Active says — Hani, would you consider a chi-square analysis of 90% to be statistically significant?
*Hani says — I have to go back to my statistics books for that one :)
*Active says — okay :)
*Tammy smiles and says — I think this is it
*GW says — 🐾
*Hani says — GW, what was your question?
*GW — I was just wondering if there was anyway I could talk to you outside the usual business hours, as I work and I can’ t talk at work. We are very much monitored.
*Hani says — yes, call me and just leave your number and a good time to catch you, and I’ ll call you.
*GW says — thanks, I appreciate it. And thanks for taking the time to answer one last question
*Hani says — thank you.
*Bobby huggles Hani for her patience
*Whitedog grabs Tammy and does the tango!
*Hani says — and I want to thank everyone for their cooperation and, maybe even, trust in me
*Active says — you’re welcome, Hani
*GW says — you’re welcome, and come back and visit again
*Pope applauds Hani and especially the Wizards for their excellent crowd control
*Mike says — I would like to thank Hani for doing this research project and wish her good luck
*Whitedog says — you’ ll most likely be getting a call from me, Hani
*Active agrees with Whitedog
*GW says — also thanks to Beverly for giving Hani and us an opportunity to talk
*Mike says — I’ ll be calling too
*GW says — Tammy, how long did the meeting run approximately?
*Tammy says — about 250 minutes :)
*Bobby says — wow!
*Hani says — wow!
*GW offers fresh popcorn to everyone
*Mike grabs a donut and fires up the espresso machine
*Hani says — good night everyone. We are going to sleep :)

Template:Did You Know?/1

2021-06-20T00:58:32Z

Quantumhusky:

<div style="float:right;margin-top:0.3em;">[[File:DYK questionmark icon.svg|50px|right|Question mark]]</div>
*...that [[Zoosexuality]] was a term that can be sourced back to the original [[Hani Miletski's Chat Logs]] can be traced back to the user "Doggie" These logs can be seen in [[Hani Miletski]]'s book [[Understanding Bestiality and Zoophilia]].

*...that Zoosexuality is a value-neutral term covering the spectrum of human-animal sexuality, and implies nothing more than a person with an orientation towards animals. This is a loving and non-violent, incidental intermittent or long-term, actual or wished-for, fantasy or reality. Also, similarly to other orientations such as homosexuality and heterosexuality, it may be "exclusive" in nature, or one of a range of sexual focuses - the person may have human partners as well, and their relationships may be authentically relational or otherwise.

Quantum Pre-Implementation

2021-06-20T00:58:01Z

Quantumhusky:

==Pre Implementation==

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=Did You Know?..=
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;[[Human sexuality]]
: [[Zoosexuality]]
: [[Biology and sexual orientation]]
: [[Psychology of Zoosexuality]]
: [[Demographics of sexual orientation]]
: [[Sexual orientation]]

;[[Sexual identity]]
: [[Who are these Zoophiles?]]
: [[Zoo]]
: [[Zoo Exclusive]]

;[[Society]]
: [[Zoosexuality in society]]
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;[[Legality of Bestiality by Country|Law]]
:[[Legality of Bestiality by Country|Zoo rights by country or territory]]
: [[List of Zoo rights articles by region]]
: [[Zoo parenting|Parenting]]
: [[History of Zoo in policing|Police]]
: [[Animal marriage]]
: [[Zoo social movements|Rights movements]]
: [[Sodomy law]]
: [[Violence against Zoo people]]
: [[Zoo bashing]]

;[[Zoo culture]]
: [[Furry Fandom & the Zoo Community]]
: [[Zoo community]]
: [[Zoo social movements|Social movements]]
: [[Zoo pride|Pride]]
: [[Zoo symbols|Symbols]]
: [[Zoo slang|Slang]]
: [[Furry bar]]
: [[Zoo icons]]
: [[Zoo literature]]

;[[Zoo history]]
: [[Zoosexual American history]]
: [[Zoosexual men in American history]]
: [[Zoosexual women American history]]
: [[Timeline of Zoo history]]
: [[Timeline of zoophilia]]
: [[Zoo Liberation]]
{{Col-break}}
;[[Zoo matters and religion|Zoo and religion]]
: [[Zoosexuality and religion]]
: [[Christianity and Zoosexuality]]
: [[Zoo topics and Islam|Islam]]
: [[Zoo topics and Judaism|Judaism]]

;[[Societal attitudes towards Zoosexuality|Social attitudes]]
: [[Zoo rights opposition]]
: [[Heterosexism]]
: [[Zoophobia]]

;[[:Category:Zoo-related lists|Lists]]
: [[List of Zoosexuals|Zoo people]]
: [[:Category:Zoo scientists|Zoo scientists, engineers, and mathematicians]]
: [[List of Zoo films|Zoo-related films]]
: [[List of Zoo characters in comics|Zoo characters in comics]]
: [[List of Zoo characters in film, radio, and TV fiction|Zoo characters in film/radio/TV]]
: [[List of Zoo online community centers|Zoo community centers]]
: [[List of Zoo events|Zoo events]]
: [[List of Zoo holidays|Zoo holidays]]
: [[List of years in Zoo rights|Years in Zoo rights]]
: full list at [[:Category:Zoo-related lists]]
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Template:Did You Know?/Number

2021-06-20T00:50:46Z

Quantumhusky:

Hani Miletski's Chat Logs

2021-06-20T00:50:02Z

Quantumhusky:

==Pending Format Fix==

Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
Tammy shouts — I’ m going to be moderating tonight
Active says — Moderate away, Tam :)
Tammy shouts — Those of you planning on attending the thing with Hani, please come down here
Tammy says — Okay. Beverly has asked me to moderate tonight. The purpose for this visit, as I
understand, is for Hani to tell us about her research and then for her to answer questions.
Black says — what kind of research?
Tammy says — I’ m going to find that out along with you all
Active says — So she’s not looking for information from us?
Strong says — Not at this time.
Tammy says — this is not going to be a one on one thing, not at this time.
Active says — Interesting.
Tammy says — but she would like to have contact with some people here.
Satyr says — This is a meeting to allow us to meet her and understand what she is trying to
do/research.
Tammy shouts — Can I have everyone’s attention in the forest please?
Doggie says — No!
Active listens.
Kevin wows at Doggie
Tammy pokes Doggie :)
Mike nods
Whitedog says — It’s only a little report, Active. Nothing’s going to be published.
Active says — Oh?
Tussle walks in
SIGN ON — HANI MILETSKI, MSW
Active says — Hi Hani!
Satyr says — Heya Hani :)
Thrill lifts Kevin up... “ can you see?”
Tammy says — Hi Hani
Jim tacklehugs Hani
Black says — Hi Hani
Mike says — hello then :)
Alex says — hi Hani
Foxi says — Hi Hani
Tussle spyhops
Satyr says — Welcome to the Forest, or “ total chaos” as it sometimes is ;)
Troy says — hi all
Tammy says — I am explaining what’s going on to everyone. My name is Tammy, and I will try to
moderate tonight. I would like to use the same method as we did for other meetings... talking one at a
time, and if you wish to talk, use a 🐾 to indicate that.
Cocco says — hello everyone
Tammy says — Kevin, can you keep track of who is next to talk for me?
Kevin says — okay, let me get some scritch paper
Urge splashes Race [[Horse]]
Jim thwapples Race Horse gently
Axiom says — Hi Active
Redcow sits and moos
Craig walks in
Prince appears from nowhere!
Mic walks in
Littlehorse walks in
Full walks in
Mic grabs the couch
Zoro walks in
Mike sits next to Mic
Foxi says — eekk, what a crowded hallway!
Alex snags a spot on the couch
Foxi sits by Mic
Whitedog lays on Mike and Mic :)
Beverly says — okay, people, Hani isn’ t used to the net, so don’ t spam her, please.
Full eats outa his feeder
Word walks in
Active nods
Redcow lies down and ruminates...
Jim finds a piece of carpet to lay on, and pulls Race Horse down on top of him, skritching his tummy
Active grins
Dolphin reads the message board.
Race Horse yeeeps and stretches on Jim, “ Mmmmmmm!”
Tammy says — While Hani is talking, please do not interrupt.
Hani says — Hi everybody. Just wanted to let you know that it’s my first time on the net and I’ m very
slow at this, so please be patient. Do you have any questions for me?
Black says — hi Hani
Mike says — hello Hani :)
Active says — Hi Hani
Holland bids you all good morning!
Foxi says — Hi Hani
Dolphin says — Hello Hani!
Tammy says — Welcome Hani
Mic says — hi Hani
Doggie says — hi Hani. We spoke on der phone
Prince says — howdy!
Alex says — greetings Hani
Satyr bows in greeting to Hani
Jim waves
Littlehorse says — hi, we spoke
Trouble clicks hello! :)
Race Horse bows, “ Hello Hani. I’ m a complete stranger.”
Whitedog waves to Hani. Then sits and pays attention.
Littlehorse says — 🐾
Sheep knocks on the door
Holland says — Hani, what is the purpose of your study? What do you hope to get out of it?
Crocodile appears from nowhere!
Hani says — Basically, I want to get all the info. I can get about [[bestiality]] and [[zoophilia]], and more
specifically if this is a form of sexual orientation.
Active says — 🐾
Jim says — 🐾
Dog appears form nowhere!
Wolfie arrives in a blinding flash!
Kevin says — Littlehorse is next
Satyr says — 🐾
Doggie says — 🐾
Littlehorse says — okay, could you tell us where besides here you find sources of information? Or
put differently, are all your sources Internet typoes of one sort or another?
Prince says — 🐾
Horselover walks in
Lamb walks in
Hani says — I am hoping to get all of your cooperation in that, so that you tell others who are not
connected to the net about me.
Littlehorse says — okay, thanks
Kevin says — Active is next
Active says — I don’ t think there’s any question that zooness is a sexual orientation, like being hetero
or gay or bi.
Race Horse says — 🐾
Dolphin is ignoring everyone.
Hani says — but I don’ t think other people know that (I don’ t know that either, but I hope to find out)
Dolphin is now listening
Active nods and says — That’s part of the problem: they think we do it because we can’ t get a human:)
Hani says — right. I get a lot of that from people who have no idea about the subject.
Tammy says — 🐾
Burro walks in
Mike says — 🐾
Kevin says — Jim is next
Jim says — I just wanted to make a clarification; when you say “sexual orientation” you are saying in
contrast to a kink, or sexual behavior, like bondage/frottage/etc... So, in your research you are trying to
determine if zoophilia is in fact an orientation and not just a kink?
Hani says — Yes, a sexual orientation like homosexuality.
Pony says — 🐾
Littlehorse says — 🐾
Mic says — 🐾
Kevin says — Satyr is next
Satyr takes a deep breath and says — I think we would all like to get a little background as to why you
are gathering this information. What is already out there on the subject, and what do you hope to
contribute to the psychological community by doing this study? I know you’re planning on putting
together a rather lengthy questionnaire for those who choose to partake in the study. Do you have any
ideas as to what its content will be?
Satyr yields the floor
Hani says — I know there is not a lot out there, and that’s why I want to do something about it. The
questionnaire will probably be long, and will include questions about your sex life, as well as questions
about your life in general, such as level of education, age, etc. I will have questions with different
options for you to choose from, and I will also allow you to elaborate on your feelings, thoughts, and
experiences, so that I can get more info.
Satyr nods and thanks Hani
Star walks in
Active says — 🐾
Moo arrives in a blinding flash!
Wolf walks in
Prince says — that was my question. I was curious as to when you...oops, sorry...
Kevin tickles Prince ;)
Fortune walks in
Kevin nods to Doggie and says — Doggie is next
Doggie says — thanks. Are the study results to be widely published in some form? Might it mean a
change of term from zoophilie to something like [[zoosexual]] which indicates an orientation rather than a
mental illness? Yields der floor.
Hani says — I don’ t know. Haven’ t thought about it. I am hoping to have enough info. to be able to
publish it in a book.
Doggie says — thank you.
Kevin tickles Doggie — limit your questions silly ;)
Breath knocks on the door and walks in
Fortune curls up quietly on the floor...
Hani says — next question
Redcow says — 🐾
Kevin hands the microphone to Prince
Prince says — I’ m a professor of photography. I will be happy to do the illustrations, Hani 🐾laughs🐾...
seriously, your form sounds interesting. When will they be available and how do we get them? Thank
you.
Hani says — good question. It will probably be ready, hopefully, before the summer. I need you to
call me at (202) 659-4938, to tell me how can I send it to you, since I have no regular access to the net.
If anyone is long distance, you can call me, and I’ ll call you right back, so don’ t worry about the
charges. Even if you are in a different country.
Black says — 🐾
Holland says — 🐾
Active says — 🐾
Word reads the mail
Kevin says — Race Horse, your turn
Race Horse walks up to the mic and baps it on his head. “ Ow.”
Tammy smiles
Fortune smiles
Hani says — Hani too (I’ m starting to get the hang of this).
Two knocks on the door
Foxi perks her ears
Race Horse says — insomuch as zoophilia being considered a [[sexuality]], I do agree that it is. But I
think it is vastly different from homosexuality on a few points. In my experience, the majority of
[[zoophiles]] or zoosexuals, whatever you call it, had mostly environmental factors that made them that
way, for the most part. I imagine all of us have an “ affinity” toward animals. But by and large, I
suspect most here grew up spending much time alone, and turned to non-humans as a means of support
and friendship. To many of us, it seems only logical to take that a step [[further]] and extend those
relationships into the areas of [[intimacy]]. More and more it seems homosexuality is becoming linked to
genetics. This may be true of zoophiles to a degree, but only marginally.
Hani says — everything is possible. I hope to find out more about it in the future.
Race Horse says — a person may have had an abusive family, for instance, and formed a relationship
with his dog.
Hani says — right! That’s why this will be one of my questions in the questionnaire.
Fortune nods
Race Horse says — I think you’ ll find scenarios like this abundant when you talk to the rest of us.
Tammy says — thanks Race Horse
Race Horse is finished, now that his face is blue.
Spike walks in
Black applauds
Crocodile says — 🐾
Kevin passes the mic to Lamb
Lamb says — is your research going to look at the zoophiles’ other relationships as well? I’ m
currently in a relationship and have told her about my interests. It worked out well for me, but others
were not so lucky.
Hani says — yes. I’ m happy for you. It must have been difficult for you.
Moo smiles
Tammy says — Hani, many of my friends here are very concerned about privacy. What kind of
guarantees do they have this will all be in confidence? And can we work together to set up something
so that their privacy can be maintained? I mean like a go between... or something. Oh, one more... are
you interested in zoo-friendly’s?
Hani says — Well, the questionnaire is anonymous. I am not going to include any personal info. on
you in my study. All I need is a name and an address to send it to you. When you send it back you
don’ t have to put your address on. (Beverly, who is sitting next to me, is telling me that Tammy is not
a zoo, but a “ zoo-friendly.” She likes to hang out with zoos and help them when they need her help).
The people who qualify for my study are those who have had sexual contact with animals! Sorry.
Tammy says — you understand, Hani, that many people here can be arrested for this. Maybe the form
can be made available electronically on one of the zoo sites?
Hani says — the problem with that is that I will have no idea who was the respondent, and I can get
people who just played a trick on me.
Tammy says — I could be an intermediary, if people trusted me...
Doggie says — 🐾
Moo says — 🐾
Whitedog says — 🐾
Two says — 🐾
Full says — 🐾
Alex grins
Active says — 🐾
Ron says — 🐾
Woof goes to the forest
Goat goes to the forest
Kevin says — okay, the list is over 17 long now. Trouble is next, but Black has to leave soon.
Tammy says — Black...
Black says — is the research you do here going to be used as part of any graduate work? And for what
specific purpose?
Hani says — I am a doctoral student in [[human sexuality]]. This is my dissertation research.
Black waves bye to everyone and says — okay, thank you
Hani says — bye
Dogman arrives in a blinding flash!
GW appears from nowhere!
Mike says — what prompted you to do this research?
Hani says — I am a psychotherapist in my profession. I have a client who is a zoo, and I was trying to
get some [[literature]] for him, but found almost nothing. So I figured that this subject needs to be
researched and published.
Mike smiles. “ Thank you” :)
Wildlife walks in.
Trouble says — two parts: 1. What specific research question do you want to answer, or are you just
gathering general information about zoophilia?
Hani says — generally, both. Specifically, is there such a thing as a sexual orientation toward
animals?
Trouble says — 2. How do you plan to address the obvious bias that 🐾we🐾 as power computer users,
are just a subset of the total [[zoo community]]?
Hani says — I know, that’s a problem. I will have to address that in my dissertation as a limitation of
my study. But, I am hoping to get people who are not in the net as well.
Trouble hopes so too and yields the floor
Sunshine walks in
Pony says — is it your goal to attempt an origin theory on zoophilia, or the coping mechanisms that
various zoos have developed in order to function within [[society]]?
Hani says — I guess both. It will be great if I can get the answers to all of that.
Pony says — can I squeeze in another one?
Hani says — a ha
Pony says — what are your current beliefs about the origin of zoophilia: biological, psychological, or
sociological?
Hani says — currently I have no actual beliefs. I don’ t want to get into this research project with
biases.
Moo nods
Lamb says — good answer :)
Hani says — thanks. Who’s next?
Mic says — sorry, Hani, I’ m confused. So far, it seems that you are only gathering information. You
have not formulated any specific question which you are trying to answer. I do not think that I want to
be involved in just an information gathering without knowing to what end the information I give will
be used.
Hani says — basically yes. But, I said earlier that I am trying to find out if there is a sexual orientation
toward animals.
Mic says — of course there is, or we wouldn’ t be here :)
Hani says — I believe that whatever I find will be important and worthwhile, since most people have
no clue about this subject, including psychotherapists who are supposed to help people deal with that.
Mic says — help people deal with what? What do you mean by “ deal with it.” ?
Tammy says — Mic, there are many issues to be “ dealt with.” I’ m sure Hani is not saying it is wrong
Mic says — sorry, but I do not feel like I am getting solid answers
GW nods in agreement
Hani says — with their struggles. I know that a lot of you thought at one point or another that you are
the only one, and that something is wrong with you, and there was no one to talk to about it, and
nothing to read... So I think it is important to get people to know more, and not be judgmental.
Mic says — okay. Then that would be a purpose that I would be willing to participate in. I yield.
Hani says — great. Thanks!
Tammy says — just an FYI, I’ ve discussed zoophilia with my therapist, she knew nothing about it.
Mike says — 🐾
Blackhorse walks in
Active says — okay, here it goes, this is going to be long. First, I think I speak for the majority when I
say I do not approve of asking zoos for a mailing address, under any circumstances, even if you don’ t
connect the answers to the individual respondents. Sorry to come so hard, but using snail mail is
extremely dangerous for items of a sexual nature, especially where that nature is illegal in some areas.
Sending bestiality information, even a survey response, through the mail can be a Federal offense, so
everyone who replies may become a criminal. I second Tam’s recommendation that you make the
form available at one or more of the more popular zoo web pages. This should make distribution easy
and very safe. Those of us with zoo friends not connected to the net can pass the info along by
ourselves and relay it via email through a trusted intermediary. As for people who play a trick on you,
that’ ll happen no matter what method you use for gathering the data. Masters and Johnson faced it,
and so did Margaret Mead. It simply goes with the territory. Sex is prone to pranksters. And for the
record, I never thought there was anything “ wrong” with me :) Finally, in more mundane matters,
have you read “ the Horseman” by Mark Matthews? I haven’ t read it myself, but it is highly
recommended.
Race Horse grabs a bucket of popcorn
Hani says — well, first, please don’ t write so much at one time... I’ m a slow reader :)
Active apologizes — I’ m leaving soon, so I threw up my queue all at once :)
Hani says — I read the book, and even talked to the author. This was one of the things that inspired
me to do the research. I already have about 20 people who have given me their addresses. I know it is
dangerous, but if you don’ t put your address, the police can only arrest me.
Active says — but if someone wanted to compile a list of zoos, this is how one would do it. In order
to receive a form, one must send out an address, so the list compiler knows at least you’re a zoo.
Hani says — I highly doubt that anyone is going to open the mail. Also, I send you the questionnaire,
and when you send it back, no one knows who it is from. I promise not to give out and not to use the
list I have in any form or shape. I don’ t know what else I can tell you.
Beverly says — if she was to give out personal information after gathering it into a list, she would be
censured by her university. No reputable researcher gives out personal information on subjects
Mike nods
Hani says — and I will also loose my credentials as a psychotherapist
Breath says — and our name would be prisoner 9243b
Blackhorse says — hehe
Active turns on his total paranoia mode — if you are really a researcher and not a Fed. Sorry, it had to
be said. Paranoia mode off :(
Foxi grins
Active now yields the floor. Promise :)
Kevin tickles Active, mainly cause it’s fun ;)
Beverly says — I look around Hani’s room, at the literature and [[Module:Documentation|documentation]] already gathered on
the subject, and wonder if Hani could really be a Fed. I don’ t think so.
Hani says — thanks.
World walks in
Doggie says — 🐾
Foxi says — 🐾
Deer walks in
Copy arrives in a blinding flash!
Full says — 🐾
Redcow says — are the questionnaires going to be given to non-zoos for comparison? How are you
going to compare the question results?
Hani says — that’s a very good idea. I’ ll have to talk to my committee members about it.
Redcow says — Will it be qualitative or quantitative? Will questions be leading? Will you use open
or closed answers?
Hani says — both. I’ ll have open-ended questions as well as multiple choice ones.
Redcow says — will you take into account the socio-economic factors? And even geographical
location? Age? Sex? Etc.
Hani says — yes, all of the above.
Redcow says — how will you present them to the subject?
Hani says — what do you mean?
Redcow says — well, do you ask your subject about economics, or do you use census data?
Hani says — I ask. Probably will give a few options to choose from.
Redcow says — sorry, you seem to have misunderstood. Are you going to find further data about the
subject from previous surveys, using say their address to find their socio-economic class. Also, have
you had any papers published in journals etc. before?
Hani says — I will have to look at other studies, but I don’ t think anyone has studied it before, at least
as far as I know. I will only use the info you give me. Im not going to spy on you in any other way. I
don’ t even ask questions on the phone when people call me. And I have not yet published anything,
but my master’s thesis is going to be published probably in January.
Redcow says — 2 last questions. Very short, are you going to look at the species of animal the subject
likes, and the age at which they started?
Hani says — Sure. That’s very important info.
Tammy says — good questions Redcow
Jim says — there is only a tiny amount of literature out there on the topic, and what there is of it is
largely outdated... so Hani has a job cut out for her, due to the scarcity of prior work. I’ m not sure
she’s even gotten a chance to formulate the kinds of questions she wants to ask. This is going to be a
very big synthesis.
Ball walks in
Kevin notes — the list: Holland, Breath, Doggie, Moo, Two, Full, Ron, Mini, Kevin, Mike, Foxi,
Sunshine, so you can all know who is in front of you and get ready :-)
Holland stands up clears his throat and says — just want to know, in the UK, are you going to snail
mail the questionnaires over to us? Also, what sort of time do you accept phone calls bearing in mind
our time difference. Is the questionnaire going to be based in a sexual context? Or will there be an
emotional content as well. For instance, to me, sex is not the only consideration. It covers the whole
spectrum just like in human relationships.
Hani says — yes, I’ ll have to send it by regular mail. I am going to ask about the emotional aspect as
well, cause this is part of it, as far as I understand.
Copy nods
Holland says — my overriding concern is my horse’s happiness, not my own. I’ ll do anything for
that.
Moo smiles at Holland
Mike nods enthusiastically
Hani says — there’s 6 hours difference between DC and UK. So just calculate the time, whenever you
want
Holland says — Hani, and you’ ll call back to the UK??? That’s expensive.
Hani says — sure I’ ll call!!!
Mike says — cool :)
Tammy says — okay Holland?
Holland says — umm... I think those bits about the emotional aspects and such was it.
Tammy says — Breath is next
Kevin suddenly notes the absence of a microphone in his hand!! Giggles
Tammy says — oops! Did I mess up?
Tammy sits back and lets Kevin do his job — sorry :)
Breath says — the thing that worries me the most is the anonymity. Let me get this right, you want
me to give my entire address to a complete stranger about a subject which is completely illegal in the
UK and carries a maximum penalty of life sentence for an unclear advantage?
Hani says — I know I am asking you to trust me and you don’ t even know me. I’ m asking a lot, but
what else can I do?
Tammy says — you are with two people we do trust, Hani. I’ m sure we can figure something out.
Hani says — thanks Tammy
Breath says — make the form available via a web site or send it out via... What do you hope to
actually achieve with this whole thing? Who will be able to see it? The general public? The
psychiatry community? Or just a few professors in a small university?
Hani says — currently I am not connected to the net, so that’s a problem. We’ ll see. I’ m hoping to
publish it as a book, and have in mind to make presentations to professionals in various conferences.
Littlehorse is satisfied and will answer the questionnaire when it appears
Hani says — thank you Littlehorse
Breath is afraid he’s not going to touch this. Sounds too fishy to him
Hani says — why Breath?
Tammy says — everyone is entitled to their own opinion
Hani says — true, but still, I need as many people as I can get. The more people I have, the more
credible the study will be
Breath says — exactly, and my opinion is that I am not going to give my home address to anyone I
don’ t know real well, or without a good reason. Who’s to say that Hani is not someone collecting
addresses of zoos for various reasons. Ours is not a simple life. People would see us persecuted at
every chance. And why the curiosity over this subject in particular? Is there a reason?
Hani says — I understand you. That’s why I want you to call me, so you may get to know me better.
I explained earlier.
Tammy says — she has gone over that. I’ m recording and will make the file available
Breath says — sorry, I didn’ t see that
Hani says — that’s okay. Feel free to call me
Breath says — why don’ t you just conduct some interviews here? Lock a room and interview people.
Anonymous and easy.
Tammy says — she has no net access
Breath says — how is she here now then?
Beverly says — we came over to her house with a laptop and signed on through our account
Breath sits down and listens
Breath says — Beverly is with her in real life?
Tammy says — yes
Breath didn’ t know this fact :)
Beverly says — we are here, it’s our computer, and we trust Hani
Breath would have been a lot more chilled out had someone told him this
Hani says — that’s okay. I’ m glad you are with us
Race Horse says — I’ m sorry Hani. I don’ t think I can trust you. I think you’re an alien from
Dimension X
Tammy says — let’s let Hani continue with her answers
Doggie says — I believe Hani is a medical professional bound by rules of ethics/client confidentiality.
Those concerned about their address should use a P.O. Box, or not participate, perhaps. Email/second
party and web pages can be meddled with. Test is not illegal to mail, or “ The Horseman” could never
be mailed. Overseas mail coming in to the US is subject to search at customs.
Moo waits patiently for his turn
Kevin passes the mic over
Moo says — first of all I’ m hoping you’ ll realize how important it is for you to make this available to
as many as possible, through whatever means possible. We treasure our anonymity dearly and we
must protect ourselves foremost. I’ m wondering how many different ways you’re going to crossreference the data. There are a lot of demographics to consider: those who are straight/bi/gay with
people. Those who aren’ t involved with people at all, those who are married/divorced/re-married, race,religion, present age, “starting” age, animal of choice, etc. Are you just going to look for commonalities and then go from there? I’ m just wondering if you’ ll put more importance behind the [[statistics]] or from personal anecdotes? Cause I believe that you may learn a lot more from talking to us as opposed to just getting us to list off answers to questions.
Mike nods
GW nods too and says — good question Moo
Hani says — I am hoping to get qualitative as well as quantitative info, and the questionnaire will
probably be long
Moo says — alright. Willya accept a collect call on Monday? :)
Hani says — yes! Please!
Moo smiles and gets his dialing finger ready ;)
Horselover says — 🐾
Two says — I would like to add to the “ orientation” question first. Yes, I think there is definitely a
sexual orientation toward animals, be it genetic or learned. I am as much aroused by my mares as my
wife, and sometimes will drift off and remember past encounters. Second, one thing at least for me is
the lack of false pretenses with all animals. Face it, humans will lie. If you do something an animal
doesn’ t like, you will know, as you will know if you do something they like. I have spent many hours
just scratching an itchy spot and have seen a look that means “I really like that.”
Tammy says — Two, do you have a question Hani can answer for you?
Two says — uh, guess not.
Tammy smiles at Two and says — you will have time to chat with Hani on the phone.
Active says — 🐾
Copy says — 🐾
Ron, looking at the big picture, wonders if Hani’s research is aimed at pulling zoophilia back into the
realm of normal sexuality, where it was once before, or further define it as a perversion that does not
produce children to further the ideology of our society.
Hani says — I have no such aim. My intention is to provide objective data so that people will know
about zoophilia and maybe understand it better. I will have to analyze all the findings and put it in
some form in my dissertation, and afterwards in my future book. I am still in the beginning process of
my work, so it will take some time, and a lot of work...
Race Horse expects a full report, with cover and illustrations on his desk tomorrow.
Fur appears from nowhere!
Pope appears from nowhere!
Doggie says — 🐾
Kevin sits on Race Horse
Pope laughs
Kevin smiles
Race Horse winks at Hani
Mini says — Hani, please forgive if I sound stern in what I say, no disrespect is intended, and please
excuse my slow typing. First, I saw you mention “ committee.” Will these people be privy to the
personal info that I give you, should I decide to do so? How many others, besides yourself will be
privy to that info?
Hani says — no one. Just me
Mini says — I do not mean to sound paranoid, but...
Hani says — I understand
Race Horse says — Hani no esta los federales
Mini says — these people here are my family. I [[love]] them all, and am fearful of this whole thing. But
Beverly seems to trust you, and so will I.
Mike smiles
Hani says — thanks
Mini says — but please understand my and others fear
Hani says — I do
Mini says — thank you. Sorry for rehashing an old question
Hani says — that’s fine :)
Tammy hugs Mini tightly
Race Horse huggles Mini too
Ron grins and hugs Mini tightly
Strong says — 🐾
Kevin says — at the start you mentioned that the reason you are doing this at all is a result of a patient
of yours. I know that you can’ t tell us who the patient is, but I might be so bold as to say that there are
many folks here who have found “ acceptance” here, online. It might be a thought for your patient to
“ come here” sometimes. They could, of course, be anonymous unless they chose to say anything
about it.
Hani says — I know. I’ ll keep that in mind
Race Horse notes that the “ acceptance” found here is a double edged sword. It ain’ t always a bouquet
of roses.
Kevin says — that’s it. And I’ ll be calling you sometime
Hani says — thanks
Sunshine says — would you send several questionnaires to New Zealand, as I know some here that
would fill them out?
Hani says — yes, but I would like to talk to you on the phone first. Call me and I’ ll call you back.
Horselover says — I’ ve been discussing mailing the questionnaire with an Australian Customs
Officer, and in her off-duty opinion, it’s unlikely that any harm would come to 🐾me🐾 sending the
response. But text on bestiality, with details, is a prohibited import everywhere she knows about.
Hani says — I know, I’ m the only one at risk
Horselover says — so, effectively, Hani, I would be getting 🐾you🐾 to break the law by answering your
questions in detail. How are you going to deal with it in the small chance that someone does check the
mail.
Jim says — but it could be reasonably argued that it’s not erotica
Pope wonders if the academic nature of the material wouldn’ t protect it
Hani says — Jim and Pope are probably right, hopefully :)
Polo appears from nowhere!
Bobby walks in
Kevin nuzzles Bobby
Copy says — did anyone ask if repression because of religion becomes involved for the person, and
the ramifications of that and on altered social behavior for not being who you are and what outlets does
this altered behavior take? Is this going to be contained in the report?
Hani says — these are all good ideas for questions. Thank you.
Copy says — Also, are you going to include, for those of us who are married who’s spouses know
about their zoo life, any questions for them?
Hani says — no, but I’ ll ask you about it.
Copy says — okay. That was it for me.
Mustang appears from nowhere!
Doggie says — they consider us to be dog rapists who should be castrated and jailed. Bringing out
🐾too🐾 much info publically may make them, the Humane Society, and animal rights groups more
aware of an 🐾organized network🐾 with possibly bad consequences. What is Hani’s view on this
additional exposure risk?
Hani says — that’s a good one. Let me think...
Doggie says — people laugh at sex with horses, but get mighty pissed if they think a dog is being
abused.
Hani says — there are always risks, but I hope that my study will show people the humane side of it,
and that it’s not abuse.
Strong says — neither Hani nor I nor anyone else pretends there isn’ t some risk here, possibly serious
risk. But it is worth noting that I don’ t believe the risk lies with Hani. I pride myself on being an
accomplished sniffer of fakes and Feds, and I’ m betting she’s neither. Nevertheless, as you all seem to
know, you don’ t have 100% protection. Yes, you will take an enormous risk receiving the
questionnaire, and I don’ t think anyone would hold it against you if you chose to abstain from the
survey for that very reason. There is more, though. This is also, to some extent, about sacrifice. In
taking this risk, you would be contributing to the first ever serious research about zoophilia.
Active says — people who don’ t know about places like [[alt.sex.bestiality]] and the Forest are probably
worse off than any of us.
Strong says — this is your chance to make a difference. There is, of course, the distinct possibility
that Hani will be an unwilling and/or unwitting participant in an FBI operation. They can tap her
phones, search her files, raid her records, on a whim. They can decide to use the information to arrest
us all, or just keep it for... a rainy day, as it were. They can, of course, do the same to each of us
should they want to badly enough. Of course, I don’ t know what would happen to non-Americans, but
I would expect it would be similar in Canada, and possibly the UK. However, that risk has always
been present
Jim says — I don’ t think the Feds are in the habit of raiding university psych labs.
Bobby says — 🐾
Active says — 🐾
Kevin passes the mic over to Bobby
Bobby says — quite a few questions related to professional things. First, do you have a pre-approved
committee? You cannot conduct psychological research or experimentation without committee
approval. It is illegal. Without this approval, your doctoral thesis will be disqualified.
Hani says — I already have an approval
Bobby says — is the institution accredited, and if so, by who?
Beverly says — Hani is looking up the accreditation and will be right back. Good questions!
Tammy says — how is she holding up?
Beverly says — I’ m more tired than she is. She’s excited about the people being willing to help and
this whole new medium.
Hani says — I’ m back. The school has full educational approval as a California degree granting
institution by the California State Department of Education, Private Post-secondary Education Division
Bobby says — okay. Which research model are you using? And what statistical method of
tabulation?
*Hani says — It’s too soon. I don’ t know yet. I am still gathering data and trying to find out how many people will volunteer for the research. I have professional researchers who volunteered to help me with it.
*Bobby says — is not trying to give you the 5th degree, just verifying validity :)
*Hani says — I appreciate it
*Active says — Hani, would you consider a chi-square analysis of 90% to be statistically significant?
*Hani says — I have to go back to my statistics books for that one :)
*Active says — okay :)
*Tammy smiles and says — I think this is it
*GW says — 🐾
*Hani says — GW, what was your question?
*GW — I was just wondering if there was anyway I could talk to you outside the usual business hours, as I work and I can’ t talk at work. We are very much monitored.
*Hani says — yes, call me and just leave your number and a good time to catch you, and I’ ll call you.
*GW says — thanks, I appreciate it. And thanks for taking the time to answer one last question
*Hani says — thank you.
*Bobby huggles Hani for her patience
*Whitedog grabs Tammy and does the tango!
*Hani says — and I want to thank everyone for their cooperation and, maybe even, trust in me
*Active says — you’re welcome, Hani
*GW says — you’re welcome, and come back and visit again
*Pope applauds Hani and especially the Wizards for their excellent crowd control
*Mike says — I would like to thank Hani for doing this research project and wish her good luck
*Whitedog says — you’ ll most likely be getting a call from me, Hani
*Active agrees with Whitedog
*GW says — also thanks to Beverly for giving Hani and us an opportunity to talk
*Mike says — I’ ll be calling too
*GW says — Tammy, how long did the meeting run approximately?
*Tammy says — about 250 minutes :)
*Bobby says — wow!
*Hani says — wow!
*GW offers fresh popcorn to everyone
*Mike grabs a donut and fires up the espresso machine
*Hani says — good night everyone. We are going to sleep :)

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Hani Miletski's Chat Logs

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*...that [[Zoosexuality]]'s film '''''[[Be Like Others]]''''' explores the experiences of [[transsexualism|transsexuals]] in [[Iran]], a country that outlaws [[homosexuality]] but sanctions [[sex reassignment therapy|sex-reassignment surgery]]?

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{{Col-begin}}{{Col-break}}
;[[Human sexuality]]
: [[Zoosexuality]]
: [[Biology and sexual orientation]]
: [[Psychology of Zoosexuality]]
: [[Demographics of sexual orientation]]
: [[Sexual orientation]]

;[[Sexual identity]]
: [[Who are these Zoophiles?]]
: [[Zoo]]
: [[Zoo Exclusive]]

;[[Society]]
: [[Zoosexuality in society]]
{{Col-break}}
;[[Legality of Bestiality by Country|Law]]
:[[Legality of Bestiality by Country|Zoo rights by country or territory]]
: [[List of Zoo rights articles by region]]
: [[Zoo parenting|Parenting]]
: [[History of Zoo in policing|Police]]
: [[Animal marriage]]
: [[Zoo social movements|Rights movements]]
: [[Sodomy law]]
: [[Violence against Zoo people]]
: [[Zoo bashing]]

;[[Zoo culture]]
: [[Furry Fandom & the Zoo Community]]
: [[Zoo community]]
: [[Zoo social movements|Social movements]]
: [[Zoo pride|Pride]]
: [[Zoo symbols|Symbols]]
: [[Zoo slang|Slang]]
: [[Furry bar]]
: [[Zoo icons]]
: [[Zoo literature]]

;[[Zoo history]]
: [[Zoosexual American history]]
: [[Zoosexual men in American history]]
: [[Zoosexual women American history]]
: [[Timeline of Zoo history]]
: [[Timeline of zoophilia]]
: [[Zoo Liberation]]
{{Col-break}}
;[[Zoo matters and religion|Zoo and religion]]
: [[Zoosexuality and religion]]
: [[Christianity and Zoosexuality]]
: [[Zoo topics and Islam|Islam]]
: [[Zoo topics and Judaism|Judaism]]

;[[Societal attitudes towards Zoosexuality|Social attitudes]]
: [[Zoo rights opposition]]
: [[Heterosexism]]
: [[Zoophobia]]

;[[:Category:Zoo-related lists|Lists]]
: [[List of Zoosexuals|Zoo people]]
: [[:Category:Zoo scientists|Zoo scientists, engineers, and mathematicians]]
: [[List of Zoo films|Zoo-related films]]
: [[List of Zoo characters in comics|Zoo characters in comics]]
: [[List of Zoo characters in film, radio, and TV fiction|Zoo characters in film/radio/TV]]
: [[List of Zoo online community centers|Zoo community centers]]
: [[List of Zoo events|Zoo events]]
: [[List of Zoo holidays|Zoo holidays]]
: [[List of years in Zoo rights|Years in Zoo rights]]
: full list at [[:Category:Zoo-related lists]]
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Legality of Bestiality by Country

2021-06-19T23:49:43Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "{{imported|Wikipedia}} {{stub}} ==May be Out of Date Wikipedia Made a Stand and Decided that our Sexuality was Not Approerate== ==Legality of bestiality by country or territ..."

{{imported|Wikipedia}}

{{stub}}
==May be Out of Date Wikipedia Made a Stand and Decided that our Sexuality was Not Approerate==

==Legality of bestiality by country or territory==

Legality of [[bestiality]] by country or territory concerns the laws governing humans performing sex acts with non-human animals. Laws against humans performing sex acts on animals, where they exist, are concerned with the actual act, which it commonly refers to as bestiality, rather than the sexual attraction to animals. For this reason, prohibitions of zoophilic pornography are more varied; they may be unlawful if an actual sex act with an animal is involved, but the status is not clear-cut if there is a mere representation, such as a painting or cartoon. In that case, normal obscenity laws will normally apply. All zoophilic imagery is widely regarded as pornography.

==Objectives==
Laws on bestiality tend to be shaped by animal welfare concerns, moral views, and cultural beliefs.

==Background==

Some jurisdictions list laws very clearly, such as England and Wales, which specifically prohibits penetration of a human being by the penis of an animal, and penetration of an animal by a human's penis.[3]

By contrast, many countries and US states are less precise about the scope of the law in that they outlaw sex with animals, without defining what constitutes "sex".

Even if bestiality is not explicitly prohibited, there are often many other laws that can be used to effectively prosecute cases. For example, most countries have animal cruelty laws, and a prosecutor will argue that all [[zoophilia]] activity is animal abuse.[4] In some U.S. states, a person who engages in bestiality can be charged with animal cruelty. However [[Non-Human Animal Consent]] has been proven time and time again.

Also, [[Hani Miletski]] has proven that [[Zoosexuality]]is a legitimate [[sexuality]] in her book [[Understanding Bestiality and Zoophilia]]

==National laws (May be Outdated Please Research)==
[[File:1050px-Legality of zoophilia by country or territory.svg.png]]

[[File:Legalggzoo.PNG]]

Quantum Pre-Implementation

2021-06-19T23:49:25Z

Quantumhusky:

==Pre Implementation==

{{Portal:ZETA/Banner}}

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{{Robelbox|theme={{{theme|2}}}|title=Topics}}
<div style="{{Robelbox/pad}}">
{{Col-begin}}{{Col-break}}
;[[Human sexuality]]
: [[Zoosexuality]]
: [[Biology and sexual orientation]]
: [[Psychology of Zoosexuality]]
: [[Demographics of sexual orientation]]
: [[Sexual orientation]]

;[[Sexual identity]]
: [[Who are these Zoophiles?]]
: [[Zoo]]
: [[Zoo Exclusive]]

;[[Society]]
: [[Zoosexuality in society]]
{{Col-break}}
;[[Zoo rights by country or territory|Law]]
:[[Legality of Bestiality by Country]]
: [[Zoo rights by country or territory]]
: [[List of Zoo rights articles by region]]
: [[Zoo parenting|Parenting]]
: [[History of Zoo in policing|Police]]
: [[Animal marriage]]
: [[Zoo social movements|Rights movements]]
: [[Sodomy law]]
: [[Violence against Zoo people]]
: [[Zoo bashing]]

;[[Zoo culture]]
: [[Furry Fandom & the Zoo Community]]
: [[Zoo community]]
: [[Zoo social movements|Social movements]]
: [[Zoo pride|Pride]]
: [[Zoo symbols|Symbols]]
: [[Zoo slang|Slang]]
: [[Furry bar]]
: [[Zoo icons]]
: [[Zoo literature]]

;[[Zoo history]]
: [[Zoosexual American history]]
: [[Zoosexual men in American history]]
: [[Zoosexual women American history]]
: [[Timeline of Zoo history]]
: [[Timeline of zoophilia]]
: [[Zoo Liberation]]
{{Col-break}}
;[[Zoo matters and religion|Zoo and religion]]
: [[Zoosexuality and religion]]
: [[Christianity and Zoosexuality]]
: [[Zoo topics and Islam|Islam]]
: [[Zoo topics and Judaism|Judaism]]

;[[Societal attitudes towards Zoosexuality|Social attitudes]]
: [[Zoo rights opposition]]
: [[Heterosexism]]
: [[Zoophobia]]

;[[:Category:Zoo-related lists|Lists]]
: [[List of Zoosexuals|Zoo people]]
: [[:Category:Zoo scientists|Zoo scientists, engineers, and mathematicians]]
: [[List of Zoo films|Zoo-related films]]
: [[List of Zoo characters in comics|Zoo characters in comics]]
: [[List of Zoo characters in film, radio, and TV fiction|Zoo characters in film/radio/TV]]
: [[List of Zoo online community centers|Zoo community centers]]
: [[List of Zoo events|Zoo events]]
: [[List of Zoo holidays|Zoo holidays]]
: [[List of years in Zoo rights|Years in Zoo rights]]
: full list at [[:Category:Zoo-related lists]]
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Template:Zoo/Random quote/Number of quotes

2021-06-19T23:45:01Z

Quantumhusky:

Zoo social movements

2021-06-19T23:40:11Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "* 2006 - Zoophiles against prejudice, push for animal abuse to become more punishable while liberating zoophiles. * 2009 – Zoophiles Commitment for Tolerance and Awar..."

Zoo rights by country or territory

2021-06-19T23:36:01Z

Quantumhusky: /* Background */

Zoo rights by country or territory

2021-06-19T23:33:00Z

Quantumhusky:

{{imported|Wikipedia}}

{{stub}}
==May be Out of Date Wikipedia Made a Stand and Decided that our Sexuality was Not Approerate==

==Legality of bestiality by country or territory==

Legality of [[bestiality]] by country or territory concerns the laws governing humans performing sex acts with non-human animals. Laws against humans performing sex acts on animals, where they exist, are concerned with the actual act, which it commonly refers to as bestiality, rather than the sexual attraction to animals. For this reason, prohibitions of zoophilic pornography are more varied; they may be unlawful if an actual sex act with an animal is involved, but the status is not clear-cut if there is a mere representation, such as a painting or cartoon. In that case, normal obscenity laws will normally apply. All zoophilic imagery is widely regarded as pornography.

==Objectives==
Laws on bestiality tend to be shaped by animal welfare concerns, moral views, and cultural beliefs.

==Background==

Some jurisdictions list laws very clearly, such as England and Wales, which specifically prohibits penetration of a human being by the penis of an animal, and penetration of an animal by a human's penis.[3]

By contrast, many countries and US states are less precise about the scope of the law in that they outlaw sex with animals, without defining what constitutes "sex".

Even if bestiality is not explicitly prohibited, there are often many other laws that can be used to effectively prosecute cases. For example, most countries have animal cruelty laws, and a prosecutor will argue that all [[zoophilia]] activity is animal abuse.[4] In some U.S. states, a person who engages in bestiality can be charged with animal cruelty.[5]

==National laws (May be Outdated Please Research)==
[[File:1050px-Legality of zoophilia by country or territory.svg.png]]

[[File:Legalggzoo.PNG]]

Zoo rights by country or territory

2021-06-19T23:25:35Z

Quantumhusky: Created page with "{{stub}} ==May be Out of Date Wikipedia Made a Stand and Decided that our Sexuality was Not Approerate== ==Legality of bestiality by country or territory== Legality of besti..."

{{stub}}
==May be Out of Date Wikipedia Made a Stand and Decided that our Sexuality was Not Approerate==

==Legality of bestiality by country or territory==

Legality of [[bestiality]] by country or territory concerns the laws governing humans performing sex acts with non-human animals. Laws against humans performing sex acts on animals, where they exist, are concerned with the actual act, which it commonly refers to as bestiality, rather than the sexual attraction to animals. For this reason, prohibitions of zoophilic pornography are more varied; they may be unlawful if an actual sex act with an animal is involved, but the status is not clear-cut if there is a mere representation, such as a painting or cartoon. In that case, normal obscenity laws will normally apply. All zoophilic imagery is widely regarded as pornography.

==Objectives==
Laws on bestiality tend to be shaped by animal welfare concerns, moral views, and cultural beliefs.

==Background==

Some jurisdictions list laws very clearly, such as England and Wales, which specifically prohibits penetration of a human being by the penis of an animal, and penetration of an animal by a human's penis.[3]

By contrast, many countries and US states are less precise about the scope of the law in that they outlaw sex with animals, without defining what constitutes "sex".

Even if bestiality is not explicitly prohibited, there are often many other laws that can be used to effectively prosecute cases. For example, most countries have animal cruelty laws, and a prosecutor will argue that all [[zoophilia]] activity is animal abuse.[4] In some U.S. states, a person who engages in bestiality can be charged with animal cruelty.[5]

==National laws (May be Outdated Please Research)==
[[File:1050px-Legality of zoophilia by country or territory.svg.png]]

[[File:Legalggzoo.PNG]]

File:Legalggzoo.PNG

2021-06-19T23:25:13Z

Quantumhusky:

File:1050px-Legality of zoophilia by country or territory.svg.png

2021-06-19T23:23:08Z

Quantumhusky:

Human sexuality

2021-06-19T23:00:45Z

Quantumhusky:

{{imported|Wikipedia}}

{{about|human sexual anatomy, sexuality and perceptions|information specifically about sexual activities|Human sexual activity}}
{{Redirect|Sexuality|sexual behavior among other animals|Animal sexual behaviour|other uses|Sexuality (disambiguation)}}
{{For|the book|Human Sexuality (book)}}
{{short description|The way people experience and express themselves sexually}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2019}}

'''Human [[sexuality]]''' is the way people experience and express themselves [[Human sexual activity|sexually]].<ref name="Cavendish">{{cite book|title=Sex and Society, Volume 2|publisher=[[Marshall Cavendish]]|isbn=978-0-7614-7907-9|year=2010|page=384|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YtsxeWE7VD0C&pg=PA384|quote=The term human sexuality broadly refers to how people experience and express themselves as sexual beings.}}</ref><ref name="Ferrante">{{cite book|author=Joan Ferrante|title=Sociology: A Global Perspective|publisher=[[Cengage Learning]]|isbn=978-1-285-74646-3|year=2014|page=207|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Au4bCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA207|quote=Sexuality encompasses all the ways people experience and express themselves as sexual beings.}}</ref> This involves [[biological]], [[erotic]], [[Physical intimacy|physical]], [[Emotional intimacy|emotional]], [[social]], or [[Spirituality|spiritual]] feelings and behaviors.<ref name="S. Greenberg">{{cite book|first1=Jerrold S. |last1=Greenberg|first2=Clint E. |last2=Bruess |first3=Sara B. |last3=Oswalt|title=Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality|publisher=[[Jones & Bartlett Publishers]]|isbn=978-1-284-08154-1|year=2016|pages=4–10|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8iarCwAAQBAJ&pg=PA4|quote=Human sexuality is a part of your total personality. It involves the interrelationship of biological, psychological, and sociocultural dimensions. [...] It is the total of our physical, emotional, and spiritual responses, thoughts, and feelings.}}</ref><ref name="Bolin">{{cite book|first1=Anne |last1=Bolin |first2=Patricia |last2=Whelehan|title=Human Sexuality: Biological, Psychological, and Cultural Perspectives|publisher=[[Taylor & Francis]]|isbn=978-0-7890-2671-2|year=2009|pages=32–42|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qrPHYok19v8C&pg=PA32}}</ref> Because it is a broad term, which has varied with historical contexts over time, it lacks a precise definition.<ref name="Bolin"/> The biological and physical aspects of sexuality largely concern the [[Human reproduction|human reproductive functions]], including the [[human sexual response cycle]].<ref name="S. Greenberg"/><ref name="Bolin"/>

Someone's [[sexual orientation]] is their pattern of sexual interest in the opposite or same sex.<ref name="AmPsycholAssn-whatis">{{cite web |title=Sexual orientation, homosexuality and bisexuality |publisher=[[American Psychological Association]] |access-date=10 August 2013 |url=http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx |archive-date=8 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130808032050/http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx}}</ref> Physical and emotional aspects of sexuality include bonds between individuals that are expressed through profound feelings or physical manifestations of [[Romance (love)|love]], trust, and care. Social aspects deal with the effects of human [[society]] on one's sexuality, while spirituality concerns an individual's spiritual connection with others. Sexuality also affects and is affected by cultural, political, legal, philosophical, [[morality|moral]], [[ethical]], and religious aspects of life.<ref name="S. Greenberg"/><ref name="Bolin"/>

Interest in sexual activity typically increases when an individual reaches [[puberty]].<ref>Carlson, Neil R. and C. Donald Heth. "Psychology: the Science of Behaviour." 4th Edition. Toronto: Pearson Canada Inc., 2007. 684.</ref> Although no single theory on the cause of sexual orientation has yet gained widespread support, there is considerably more evidence supporting nonsocial causes of sexual orientation than social ones, especially for males. Hypothesized social causes are supported by only weak evidence, distorted by numerous confounding factors.<ref name=Bailey16>{{cite journal|last1=Bailey|first1=J. Michael|last2=Vasey|first2=Paul|last3=Diamond|first3=Lisa|last4=Breedlove|first4=S. Marc|last5=Vilain|first5=Eric|last6=Epprecht|first6=Marc|title=Sexual Orientation, Controversy, and Science|journal=Psychological Science in the Public Interest|date=2016|volume=17|issue=2|pages=45–101|doi=10.1177/1529100616637616|pmid=27113562|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301639075|doi-access=free}}</ref> This is [[further]] supported by cross-cultural evidence, because cultures that are very tolerant of homosexuality do not have significantly higher rates of it.<ref name=LeVay>{{cite book |last=LeVay |first=Simon |date=2017 |title=Gay, Straight, and the Reason Why: The Science of Sexual Orientation |page=19 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HmQFFfa03nkC |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=9780199752966 }}</ref><ref name=Balthazart>{{cite book |last=Balthazart |first=Jacques |date=2012 |title=The Biology of Homosexuality |pages=13–14 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3fjGjlcVINkC |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=9780199838820 }}</ref>

Evolutionary perspectives on human coupling, reproduction and [[reproduction strategies]], and [[social learning theory]] provide further views of sexuality.<ref>''[https://www.researchgate.net/profile/David_Buss/publication/14715297_Sexual_Strategies_Theory_An_Evolutionary_Perspective_on_Human_Mating/links/0deec5181791b73d35000000/Sexual-Strategies-Theory-An-Evolutionary-Perspective-on-Human-Mating.pdf Sexual Strategies Theory: An Evolutionary Perspective on Human Mating]'' by David M. Buss and David P. Schmitt</ref> Sociocultural aspects of sexuality include [[History of human sexuality|historical developments]] and [[Religion and sexuality|religious beliefs]]. Some cultures have been described as [[sexually repressive]]. The study of sexuality also includes [[Individual|human identity]] within social groups, [[Sexually transmitted diseases|sexually transmitted infections]] (STIs/STDs), and [[birth control]] methods.

{{TOC limit|3}}

==Development==
===Sexual orientation===
{{Main|Sexual orientation}}

There is considerably more evidence supporting innate causes of sexual orientation than learned ones, especially for males. This evidence includes the cross-cultural correlation of homosexuality and childhood [[gender nonconformity]], moderate genetic influences found in [[twin studies]], evidence for prenatal hormonal effects on brain organization, the fraternal birth order effect, and the finding that in rare cases where infant males were raised as girls due to physical deformity, they nevertheless turned out attracted to females. Hypothesized social causes are supported by only weak evidence, distorted by numerous confounding factors.<ref name=Bailey16 />

Cross-cultural evidence also leans more toward non-social causes. Cultures that are very tolerant of homosexuality do not have significantly higher rates of it. Homosexual behavior is relatively common among boys in British single-sex boarding schools, but adult Britons who attended such schools are no more likely to engage in homosexual behavior than those who did not. In an extreme case, the [[Sambia people]] ritually require their boys to engage in homosexual behavior during adolescence before they have any access to females, yet most of these boys become heterosexual.<ref name=LeVay/><ref name=Balthazart/>

It is not fully understood why genes causing homosexuality persist in the gene pool. One hypothesis involves [[kin selection]], suggesting that homosexuals invest heavily enough in their relatives to offset the cost of not reproducing as much directly. This has not been supported by studies in Western cultures, but several studies in [[Samoa]] have found some support for this hypothesis. Another hypothesis involves [[Sexual conflict|sexually antagonistic]] genes, which cause homosexuality when expressed in males but increase reproduction when expressed in females. Studies in both Western and non-Western cultures have found support for this hypothesis.<ref name=Bailey16/><ref name=BussCh5>{{cite book |last=Buss |first=David |date=2019 |title=Evolutionary Psychology: The New Science of the Mind |chapter=Men's Long-Term Mating Strategies|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Sn6JDwAAQBAJ |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9780429590061 }}</ref>

===Gender differences===
{{see also|Sex differences in psychology#Sexual behavior}}

Psychological theories exist regarding the development and expression of gender differences in human sexuality. A number of them (including [[neo-analytic]] theories, [[sociobiological]] theories, [[social learning theory]], [[social role theory]], and [[script theory]]) agree in predicting that men should be more approving of casual sex (sex happening outside a stable, committed relationship such as [[marriage]]) and should also be more [[promiscuous]] (have a higher number of sexual partners) than women. These theories are mostly consistent with observed differences in males' and females' attitudes toward casual sex before marriage in the United States. Other aspects of human sexuality, such as sexual satisfaction, incidence of [[oral sex]], and attitudes toward [[homosexuality]] and [[masturbation]], show little to no observed difference between males and females. Observed gender differences regarding the number of sexual partners are modest, with males tending to have slightly more than females.<ref name="Oliver & Hyde">{{cite book |last1=Oliver |first1=Mary Beth |last2=Hyde |first2=Janet S. |editor1-last=Baumeister |editor1-first=Roy F. |title=Social Psychology and Human Sexuality: Essential Readings |date=2001 |publisher=Psychology Press |isbn=978-1-84169-019-3 |pages=29–43 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2qsKNaqIsuUC&pg=PA29 |chapter=Gender Differences in Sexuality: A Meta-Analysis}}</ref>

==Biological and physiological aspects==
{{main|Human reproductive system}}
Like other [[mammal]]s, humans are primarily grouped into either the [[male]] or [[female]] sex,<ref name="Leonard2010">{{cite book | last =Leonard | first =Janet | author-link =Janet L. Leonard | title =The Evolution of Primary Sexual Characters in Animals | publisher =Oxford University Press | date =18 June 2010 | page =552 | url ={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=PgtXj5R6OfMC }} | isbn =978-0-19-532555-3 }}</ref> with a small proportion (around 1% or 0.018%<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Sax|first=Leonard|date=August 2002|title=How common is intersex? a response to Anne Fausto-Sterling|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12476264/|journal=Journal of Sex Research|volume=39|issue=3|pages=174–178|doi=10.1080/00224490209552139|issn=0022-4499|pmid=12476264|s2cid=33795209}}</ref>) of [[intersex]] individuals, for whom sexual classification may not be as clear.<ref>{{cite book | author = Fausto-Sterling, Anne | author-link = Anne Fausto-Sterling | year = 2000 | title = Sexing the Body: Gender Politics and the Construction of Sexuality | location = New York | publisher = Basic Books | isbn = 978-0-465-07713-7 |page=51 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=-976qhsz7A4C}}</ref>

The biological aspects of humans' sexuality deal with the reproductive system, the [[human sexual response cycle|sexual response cycle]], and the factors that affect these aspects. They also deal with the influence of biological factors on other aspects of sexuality, such as organic and neurological responses,<ref>Ellen Ross, Rayna Rapp Sex and Society: A Research Note from Social [[History]] and Anthropology Comparative Studies in Society and History, Vol. 23, No. 1 (Jan. 1981), pp. 51–72</ref> heredity, hormonal issues, gender issues, and sexual dysfunction.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007">{{Cite book|last=Rathus|first=Spencer A. |title=Human sexuality in a world of diversity |date=2008 |publisher=Pearson/A & B |author2=Jeffrey S. Nevid |author3=Lois Fichner-Rathus |isbn=978-0-205-53291-9 |edition=7th |location=Boston |oclc=123539338}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

===Physical anatomy and reproduction===
Males and females are anatomically similar; this extends to some degree to the [[development of the reproductive system]]. As adults, they have different reproductive mechanisms that enable them to perform sexual acts and to reproduce. Men and women react to sexual stimuli in a similar fashion with minor differences. Women have a monthly reproductive cycle, whereas the male sperm production cycle is more continuous.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite book|title=Human Sexuality Today|author=King, Bruce M.|year=2013|isbn=978-0-13-604245-7}}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|isbn = 0791441334|title = Perspectives on Human Sexuality|last1 = Bolin|first1 = Anne|last2 = Whelehan|first2 = Patricia|date = January 1999}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|isbn = 978-1285454313|title = Life-Span Human Development|last1 = Sigelman|first1 = Carol K.|last2 = Rider|first2 = Elizabeth A.|date = 26 February 2014}}</ref>

====Brain====
The [[hypothalamus]] is the most important part of the brain for sexual functioning. This is a small area at the base of the brain consisting of several groups of nerve cell bodies that receives input from the limbic system. Studies have shown that within lab animals, the destruction of certain areas of the hypothalamus causes the elimination of sexual behavior.<ref name="ReferenceA" /> The hypothalamus is important because of its relationship to the [[pituitary gland]], which lies beneath it. The pituitary gland secretes hormones that are produced in the hypothalamus and itself. The four important sexual hormones are [[oxytocin]], [[prolactin]], [[follicle-stimulating hormone]], and [[luteinizing hormone]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the "[[love]] hormone,"<ref name="Sigelman452" /> is released in both sexes during sexual intercourse when an [[orgasm]] is achieved.<ref name="Hornstein" /> Oxytocin has been suggested as critical to the thoughts and behaviors required to maintain close relationships.<ref name="Sigelman452">{{cite book| last1 = Sigelman |first1=Carol |last2= Rider |first2=Elizabeth | year = 2011 | title =Life-Span Human Development| location = Boston| publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | page = 452 |isbn = 978-1-111-34273-9| url =https://books.google.com/books?id=8smBuRecmDsC&pg=PT480}}</ref><ref name="Hornstein">{{cite book| last1 = Hornstein |first1=Theresa |last2=Schwerin |first2=Jeri | year = 2012 | title = Biology of Women | location = Boston | publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | page = 205 | isbn = 978-1-285-40102-7| url =https://books.google.com/books?id=ibgKAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA205}}</ref>{{verification needed|date=February 2016}} The hormone is also released in women when they give birth or are breastfeeding.<ref name="Smith">{{cite book | author = Smith, Linda J. | year = 2010 | title = Impact of Birthing Practices on Breastfeeding | location = Burlington, MA | publisher = [[Jones & Bartlett Learning|Jones & Bartlett]] | page = 158 | isbn = 978-0-7637-6374-9 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=vUncnT6o4k4C&pg=PA158}}</ref> Both prolactin and oxytocin stimulate milk production in women.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is responsible for ovulation in women, which acts by triggering egg maturity; in men it stimulates sperm production.<ref>{{cite book| last1 = Hyde|first1=Janet|author-link1=Janet Shibley Hyde|last2=DeLamater|first2=John|author-link2=John DeLamater| last3=Byers|first3=Sandra | year = 2013 | title=Understanding Human Sexuality | edition = 5th Canadian | location = Whitby, ON, CAN | publisher = McGraw-Hill Ryerson | isbn=978-0-07-032972-0 | pages=100, 102ff }}</ref> Luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation, which is the release of a mature egg.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

====Male anatomy and reproductive system====
{{main|Human male reproductive system}}

Males also have both internal and external genitalia that are responsible for procreation and sexual intercourse. Production of spermatozoa (sperm) is also cyclic, but unlike the female ovulation cycle, the sperm production cycle is constantly producing millions of sperm daily.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

=====External male anatomy=====

The male genitalia are the penis and the scrotum. The penis provides a passageway for sperm and urine. An average-sized flaccid penis is about {{convert|3+3/4|inch|cm|abbr=out}} in length and {{convert|1+1/5|in|cm|abbr=out}} in diameter. When erect, the average penis is between {{convert|4+1/2|in|cm|abbr=out}} to {{convert|6|in|cm|abbr=out}} in length and {{convert|1+1/2|in|cm|abbr=out}} in diameter. The penis's internal structures consist of the [[shaft (penis)|shaft]], [[glans]], and the [[root]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The shaft of the penis consists of three cylindrical bodies of spongy tissue filled with blood vessels along its length. Two of these bodies lie side by side in the upper portion of the penis called corpora cavernosa. The third, called the [[corpus spongiosum]], is a tube that lies centrally beneath the others and expands at the end to form the tip of the penis (glans).<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://www.innerbody.com/image/repmov.html |title=Male Reproductive System – Explore Anatomy with Detailed Pictures |publisher=Innerbody.com |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref>

The raised rim at the border of the shaft and glans is called the corona. The urethra runs through the shaft, providing an exit for sperm and urine. The root consists of the expanded ends of the cavernous bodies, which fan out to form the crura and attach to the pubic bone and the expanded end of the spongy body (bulb). The root is surrounded by two muscles: the [[bulbocavernosus muscle]] and the [[ischiocavernosus muscle]]. These aid urination and ejaculation. The penis has a [[foreskin]] that typically covers the glans; this is sometimes removed by [[circumcision]] for medical, religious or cultural reasons.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} In the scrotum, the testicles are held away from the body, one possible reason for this is so sperm can be produced in an environment slightly lower than normal body temperature.<ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Drew|first1=Liam|title=The Scrotum Is Nuts|url=http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/science/2013/07/are_testicles_external_for_cooling_galloping_display_or_something_else.1.html|access-date=3 July 2015|magazine=[[Slate (magazine)|Slate]]|date=8 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Madaras|first1=Lynda Madaras with Area|title=The what's happening to my body? book for boys|date=2008|publisher=Newmarket|location=New York|isbn=978-1-55704-765-6|edition=Rev.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zC1g5gdJc_kC&pg=PA33}}</ref>

=====Internal male anatomy=====

Male internal reproductive structures are the testicles, the duct system, the prostate and seminal vesicles, and the [[bulbourethral gland|Cowper's gland]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The testicles (male gonads), are where sperm and male hormones are produced. Millions of sperm are produced daily in several hundred seminiferous tubules. Cells called the [[Leydig cell]]s lie between the tubules; these produce hormones called androgens; these consist of [[testosterone]] and [[inhibin]]. The testicles are held by the spermatic cord, which is a tubelike structure containing blood vessels, nerves, the vas deferens, and a muscle that helps to raise and lower the testicles in response to temperature changes and sexual arousal, in which the testicles are drawn closer to the body.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Sperm gets transported through a four-part duct system. The first part of this system is the [[epididymis]]. The testicles converge to form the [[seminiferous tubules]], coiled tubes at the top and back of each testicle. The second part of the duct system is the [[vas deferens]], a muscular tube that begins at the lower end of the epididymis.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The vas deferens passes upward along the side of the testicles to become part of the spermatic cord.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> The expanded end is the ampulla, which stores sperm before ejaculation. The third part of the duct system is the ejaculatory ducts, which are {{convert|1|in|cm|abbr=out|adj=on}}-long paired tubes that pass through the prostate gland, where semen is produced.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The prostate gland is a solid, chestnut-shaped organ that surrounds the first part of the urethra, which carries urine and semen.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}<ref name="ReferenceB"/> Similar to the female G-spot, the prostate provides sexual stimulation and can lead to [[orgasm]] through [[anal sex]].<ref name="Rosenthal">{{cite book |first=Martha |last= Rosenthal| title = Human Sexuality: From Cells to Society | publisher =[[Cengage Learning]]|year = 2012|pages=133–135| isbn = 978-0-618-75571-4|url =https://books.google.com/books?id=d58z5hgQ2gsC&pg=PT153}}</ref>

The prostate gland and the seminal vesicles produce seminal fluid that is mixed with sperm to create semen.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The prostate gland lies under the bladder and in front of the rectum. It consists of two [[Portal:Main|main]] zones: the inner zone that produces secretions to keep the lining of the male urethra moist and the outer zone that produces seminal fluids to facilitate the passage of semen.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> The seminal vesicles secrete fructose for sperm activation and mobilization, prostaglandins to cause uterine contractions that aid movement through the uterus, and bases that help neutralize the acidity of the vagina. The Cowper's glands, or bulbourethral glands, are two pea-sized structures beneath the prostate.

====Female anatomy and reproductive system====
{{Main|Human female reproductive system}}

=====External female anatomy=====

The mons veneris, also known as the [[Mons pubis|Mound of Venus]], is a soft layer of fatty tissue overlaying the pubic bone.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Hyde |last2=DeLamater |last3=Byers|title=Understanding Human Sexuality 5th Canadian ed.|year=2012 |isbn=978-0-07-032972-0|page=78}}</ref> Following puberty, this area grows in size. It has many nerve endings and is sensitive to stimulation.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The labia minora and labia majora are collectively known as the lips. The labia majora are two elongated folds of skin extending from the mons to the perineum. Its outer surface becomes covered with hair after puberty. In between the labia majora are the labia minora, two hairless folds of skin that meet above the clitoris to form the clitoral hood, which is highly sensitive to touch. The labia minora become engorged with blood during sexual stimulation, causing them to swell and turn red.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The labia minora are composed of connective tissues that are richly supplied with blood vessels which cause a pinkish appearance. Near the anus, the labia minora merge with the labia majora.<ref name="innerbody.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.innerbody.com/image/repfov.html |title=Female Reproductive System – Anatomy Pictures and Information |publisher=Innerbody.com |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref> In a sexually unstimulated state, the labia minora protects the vaginal and urethral opening by covering them.<ref>''Human Reproductive Biology'' by Mark M. Jones (2012), p. 63.</ref> At the base of the labia minora are the [[Bartholin's glands]], which add a few drops of an alkaline fluid to the vagina via ducts; this fluid helps to counteract the acidity of the outer vagina since sperm cannot live in an acidic environment.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The clitoris is developed from the same embryonic tissue as the penis; it or its [[Clitoral glans|glans]] alone consists of as many (or more in some cases) nerve endings as the human penis or glans penis, making it extremely sensitive to touch.<ref name="Francoeur">{{cite book |last=Francoeur |first=Robert T. |year=2000 |title=The Complete Dictionary of Sexology |publisher=The Continuum Publishing Company |page=[https://archive.org/details/completedictiona0000unse_w1u0/page/180 180] |isbn=978-0-8264-0672-9 |url=https://archive.org/details/completedictiona0000unse_w1u0/page/180 }}</ref><ref name="Carroll">{{cite book | title =Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity | publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | year = 2009 | page = 118 | access-date =23 June 2012 | url = {{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=5f8mQx7ULs4C |}} |isbn =978-0-495-60274-3 | first = Janell L. | last = Carroll}}</ref><ref name="Can't feel">{{cite web | title = I'm a woman who cannot feel pleasurable sensations during intercourse | publisher = [[Go Ask Alice!]] | date = 8 October 2004| access-date = 13 September 2012|url=http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/im-woman-who-cannot-feel-pleasurable-sensations-during-intercourse |archive-date= 7 January 2011|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110107184029/http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/3229.html}}</ref> The clitoral glans, which is a small, elongated erectile structure, has only one known function—sexual sensations. It is the female's most sensitive [[erogenous zone]] and the [[Portal:Main|main]] source of orgasm in women.<ref name="Clitoris">{{cite web|title=I Want a Better Orgasm!|website=[[WebMD]]|access-date=18 August 2011|url=http://www.webmd.com/sex/want-better-orgasms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113132443/http://www.webmd.com/sex/want-better-orgasms|archive-date=13 January 2009}}</ref><ref name="Flaherty">{{cite book|first1=Joseph A.|last1=Flaherty|first2=John Marcell|last2=Davis|first3=Philip G.|last3=Janicak|title=Psychiatry: Diagnosis & therapy. A Lange clinical manual|isbn=978-0-8385-1267-8|publisher=Appleton & Lange (Original from Northwestern University)|year=1993|page=[https://archive.org/details/psychiatrydiagno00flah/page/217 217]|url=https://archive.org/details/psychiatrydiagno00flah/page/217|quote=The amount of time of sexual arousal needed to reach orgasm is variable—and usually much longer—in women than in men; thus, only 20–30% of women attain a coital climax. b. Many women (70–80%) require manual clitoral stimulation...}}</ref><ref name="Kenneth Mah">{{cite journal | first1 = Kenneth | last1 = Mah | first2 = Yitzchak M | last2 = Binik | title = The nature of human orgasm: a critical review of major trends | journal = [[Clinical Psychology Review]] | volume = 21 | issue = 6 | pages = 823–856 |date=7 January 2001 | pmid = 11497209| doi = 10.1016/S0272-7358(00)00069-6 | quote=Women rated clitoral stimulation as at least somewhat more important than vaginal stimulation in achieving orgasm; only about 20% indicated that they did not require additional clitoral stimulation during intercourse.}}</ref><ref name="Kammerer-Doak">{{cite journal | first1 = Dorothy | last1 = Kammerer-Doak | first2 = Rebecca G. | last2 = Rogers | title = Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction | journal = Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America | volume = 35 | issue = 2 | pages = 169–183 |date=June 2008 | pmid = 18486835 | doi = 10.1016/j.ogc.2008.03.006 | quote=Most women report the inability to achieve orgasm with vaginal intercourse and require direct clitoral stimulation ... About 20% have coital climaxes...}}</ref> Thick secretions called [[smegma]] collect around the clitoris.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The vaginal opening and the urethral opening are only visible when the labia minora are parted. These openings have many nerve endings that make them sensitive to touch. They are surrounded by a ring of sphincter muscles called the [[bulbocavernosus muscle]]. Underneath this muscle and on opposite sides of the vaginal opening are the vestibular bulbs, which help the vagina grip the penis by swelling with blood during arousal. Within the vaginal opening is the [[hymen]], a thin membrane that partially covers the opening in many [[Virginity|virgins]]. Rupture of the hymen has been historically considered the loss of one's virginity, though, by modern standards, loss of virginity is considered to be the first sexual intercourse. The hymen can be ruptured by activities other than sexual intercourse. The urethral opening connects to the bladder with the urethra; it expels urine from the bladder. This is located below the clitoris and above the vaginal opening.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The [[breast]]s are the subcutaneous tissues on the front thorax of the female body.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Though they are not technically part of a woman's sexual anatomy, they do have roles in both sexual pleasure and reproduction.<ref name=Lehmiller>{{cite book |last=Lehmiller |first=Justin |date=2018 |title=The Psychology of Human Sexuality |edition=Second |pages=74–75 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JXJGDwAAQBAJ |publisher=John Wiley & Sons Ltd |isbn=9781119164739 }}</ref> Breasts are modified sweat glands made up of fibrous tissues and fat that provide support and contain nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Their [[Portal:Main|main]] purpose is to provide milk to a developing infant. Breasts develop during puberty in response to an increase in estrogen. Each adult breast consists of 15 to 20 milk-producing [[mammary glands]], irregularly shaped lobes that include [[alveolar gland]]s and a lactiferous duct leading to the nipple. The lobes are separated by dense connective tissues that support the glands and attach them to the tissues on the underlying pectoral muscles.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Other connective tissue, which forms dense strands called suspensory ligaments, extends inward from the skin of the breast to the pectoral tissue to support the weight of the breast.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Heredity and the quantity of fatty tissue determine the size of the breasts.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Men typically find female breasts attractive<ref>{{cite book |last=Buss |first=David |date=2019 |title=Evolutionary Psychology: The New Science of the Mind |edition=Sixth |chapter=Men's Long-Term Mating Strategies|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Sn6JDwAAQBAJ |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9780429590061 }}</ref> and this holds true for a variety of cultures.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Jan Havlíček |author2=Vít Třebický |author3=Jaroslava Varella Valentova |author4=Karel Kleisner |author5=Robert Mbe Akoko |author6=Jitka Fialová |author7=Rosina Jash |author8=Tomáš Kočnar |author9=Kamila Janaina Pereira |author10=Zuzana Štěrbová |author11=Marco Antonio Correa Varella |author12=Jana Vokurková |author13=Ernest Vunan |author14=S Craig Roberts |title=Men's preferences for women's breast size and shape in four cultures |journal=Evolution and Human Behavior |date=2017|volume=38 |issue=2 |pages=217–226 |doi=10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2016.10.002 |hdl=1893/24421 |hdl-access=free}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |author=Barnaby J Dixson |author2=Paul L Vasey |author3=Katayo Sagata |author4=Nokuthaba Sibanda |author5=Wayne L Linklater |author6=Alan F Dixson |title=Men's preferences for women's breast morphology in New Zealand, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea |journal=Archives of Sexual Behavior |date=2011 |volume=40 |issue=6 |pages=1271–1279 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/46404564 |doi=10.1007/s10508-010-9680-6|pmid=20862533 |s2cid=34125295}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|author=Frank W. Marlowe |title=Mate preferences among Hadza hunter-gatherers|journal=Human Nature |date=2004|volume=15|issue=4|pages=365–376|url=https://www.unl.edu/rhames/courses/readings/Marlowe-hadza-mate-selection-criteria.pdf|doi=10.1007/s12110-004-1014-8|pmid=26189412|s2cid=9584357}}</ref> In women, [[stimulation of nipples|stimulation of the nipple]] seems to result in activation of the brain's genital sensory cortex (the same region of the brain activated by stimulation of the clitoris, vagina, and cervix).<ref>{{cite journal |author=Barry R Komisaruk |author2=Nan Wise |author3=Eleni Frangos |author4=Wen-Ching Liu |author5=Kachina Allen |author6=Stuart Brody |title=Women's clitoris, vagina, and cervix mapped on the sensory cortex: fMRI evidence|journal=The Journal of Sexual Medicine |date=2011|volume=8|issue=10|pages=2822–2830|pmc=3186818|pmid=21797981|doi=10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02388.x}}</ref> This may be why many women find nipple stimulation arousing and why some women are able to orgasm by nipple stimulation alone.<ref name=Lehmiller/>

=====Internal female anatomy=====
{{main|Female reproductive system}}

The female internal reproductive organs are the [[vagina]], [[uterus]], [[Fallopian tube]]s, and [[ovary|ovaries]]. The vagina is a sheath-like canal that extends from the vulva to the cervix. It receives the penis during intercourse and serves as a depository for sperm. The vagina is also the [[birth canal]]; it can expand to {{convert|10|cm|inch|abbr=on}} during labor and delivery. The vagina is located between the [[bladder]] and the [[rectum]]. The vagina is normally collapsed, but during [[sexual arousal]] it opens, lengthens, and produces lubrication to allow the insertion of the penis. The vagina has three layered walls; it is a self-cleaning organ with natural bacteria that suppress the production of yeast.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The [[G-spot]], named after the [[Ernst Gräfenberg]] who first reported it in 1950, may be located in the front wall of the vagina and may cause orgasms. This area may vary in size and location between women; in some it may be absent. Various researchers dispute its structure or existence, or regard it as an extension of the clitoris.<ref name=Hines>{{cite journal |author=Hines T |date=August 2001 |title=The G-Spot: A modern gynecologic myth |journal=Am J Obstet Gynecol |volume=185 |issue=2 |pages=359–362 | doi=10.1067/mob.2001.115995 |pmid=11518892|s2cid=32381437 |url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/59ac3e423b824c8b64b2359c10a496730cd2a656 }}</ref><ref name="Balon, Segraves">{{cite book|first1=Richard |last1=Balon |first2=Robert Taylor |last2=Segraves|title=Clinical Manual of Sexual Disorders |publisher= [[American Psychiatric Association|American Psychiatric Pub]]|year=2009|access-date=24 January 2014|page=258|isbn=978-1-58562-905-3|url={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=YuP3Hb0TMLQC |}} }}</ref><ref name="Kilchevsky">{{cite journal|title=Is the Female G-Spot Truly a Distinct Anatomic Entity?|journal=[[The Journal of Sexual Medicine]]|volume= 9|date=January 2012 |pmid=22240236|doi=10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02623.x|lay-url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/19/g-spot-does-not-exist_n_1215822.html|lay-source=[[The Huffington Post]]|lay-date=19 January 2012 |last1=Kilchevsky |first1=A |last2=Vardi |first2=Y |last3=Lowenstein |first3=L |last4=Gruenwald |first4=I |issue=3|pages=719–726}}</ref>

The uterus or womb is a hollow, muscular organ where a fertilized egg (ovum) will implant itself and grow into a fetus.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The uterus lies in the pelvic cavity between the bladder and the [[bowel]], and above the vagina. It is usually positioned in a 90-degree angle tilting forward, although in about 20% of women it tilts backwards.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> The uterus has three layers; the innermost layer is the [[endometrium]], where the egg is implanted. During ovulation, this thickens for implantation. If implantation does not occur, it is sloughed off during menstruation. The cervix is the narrow end of the uterus. The broad part of the uterus is the [[fundus (uterus)|fundus]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

During [[ovulation]], the ovum travels down the Fallopian tubes to the uterus. These extend about {{convert|4|inch|cm|spell=in}} from both sides of the uterus. Finger-like projections at the ends of the tubes brush the ovaries and receive the ovum once it is released. The ovum then travels for three to four days to the uterus.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} After sexual intercourse, sperm swim up this funnel from the uterus. The lining of the tube and its secretions sustain the egg and the sperm, encouraging [[fertilization]] and nourishing the ovum until it reaches the uterus. If the ovum divides after fertilization, [[identical twins]] are produced. If separate eggs are fertilized by different sperm, the mother gives birth to non-identical or [[fraternal twins]].<ref name="innerbody.com"/>

The ovaries (female gonads), develop from the same embryonic tissue as the [[testicles]]. The ovaries are suspended by ligaments and are the source where ova are stored and developed before ovulation. The ovaries also produce female hormones [[progesterone]] and [[estrogen]]. Within the ovaries, each ovum is surrounded by other cells and contained within a capsule called a primary follicle. At puberty, one or more of these follicles are stimulated to mature on a monthly basis. Once matured, these are called [[Graafian follicles]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The female reproductive system does not produce the ova; about 60,000 ova are present at birth, only 400 of which will mature during the woman's lifetime.<ref name="innerbody.com"/>

Ovulation is based on a monthly cycle; the 14th day is the most fertile. On days one to four, menstruation and production of estrogen and progesterone decreases, and the endometrium starts thinning. The endometrium is sloughed off for the next three to six days. Once menstruation ends, the cycle begins again with an FSH surge from the pituitary gland. Days five to thirteen are known as the pre-ovulatory stage. During this stage, the pituitary gland secretes [[follicle-stimulating hormone]] (FSH). A negative feedback loop is enacted when estrogen is secreted to inhibit the release of FSH. Estrogen thickens the endometrium of the uterus. A surge of [[Luteinizing Hormone]] (LH) triggers ovulation.

On day 14, the LH surge causes a Graafian follicle to surface the ovary. The follicle ruptures and the ripe ovum is expelled into the abdominal cavity. The fallopian tubes pick up the ovum with the [[Fimbriae of uterine tube|fimbria]]. The cervical mucus changes to aid the movement of sperm. On days 15 to 28—the post-ovulatory stage, the Graafian follicle—now called the [[corpus luteum]]—secretes estrogen. Production of progesterone increases, inhibiting LH release. The endometrium thickens to prepare for implantation, and the ovum travels down the Fallopian tubes to the uterus. If the ovum is not fertilized and does not implant, menstruation begins.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

===Sexual response cycle===
The sexual response cycle is a model that describes the physiological responses that occur during sexual activity. This model was created by [[William Masters]] and [[Virginia E. Johnson|Virginia Johnson]]. According to Masters and Johnson, the human sexual response cycle consists of four phases; excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution, also called the EPOR model. During the excitement phase of the EPOR model, one attains the intrinsic motivation to have sex. The plateau phase is the precursor to orgasm, which may be mostly biological for men and mostly psychological for women. Orgasm is the release of tension, and the resolution period is the unaroused state before the cycle begins again.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The male sexual response cycle starts in the excitement phase; two centers in the spine are responsible for erections. Vasoconstriction in the penis begins, the heart rate increases, the scrotum thickens, the spermatic cord shortens, and the testicles become engorged with blood. In the plateau phase, the penis increases in diameter, the testicles become more engorged, and the Cowper's glands secrete pre-seminal fluid. The orgasm phase, during which rhythmic contractions occur every 0.8 seconds{{Verify source|date=May 2012}}, consists of two phases; the emission phase, in which contractions of the vas deferens, prostate, and seminal vesicles encourage ejaculation, which is the second phase of orgasm. Ejaculation is called the expulsion phase; it cannot be reached without an orgasm. In the resolution phase, the male is now in an unaroused state consisting of a [[Refractory period (sex)|refractory (rest) period]] before the cycle can begin. This rest period may increase with age.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The female sexual response begins with the excitement phase, which can last from several minutes to several hours. Characteristics of this phase include increased heart and respiratory rate, and an elevation of blood pressure. Flushed skin or blotches of redness may occur on the chest and back; breasts increase slightly in size and nipples may become hardened and erect. The onset of [[vasocongestion]] results in swelling of the clitoris, labia minora, and vagina. The muscle that surrounds the vaginal opening tightens and the uterus elevates and grows in size. The vaginal walls begin to produce a lubricating liquid. The second phase, called the plateau phase, is characterized primarily by the intensification of the changes begun during the excitement phase. The plateau phase extends to the brink of orgasm, which initiates the resolution stage; the reversal of the changes begun during the excitement phase. During the orgasm stage the heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and breathing rates peak. The pelvic muscle near the vagina, the anal sphincter, and the uterus contract. Muscle contractions in the vaginal area create a high level of pleasure, though all orgasms are centered in the clitoris.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}<ref>{{cite web|last=Intimacy |first=Sinclair |url=http://health.howstuffworks.com/sexual-health/sexuality/sexual-response-dictionary1.htm |title=Discovery Health "Sexual Response" |publisher=Health.howstuffworks.com |date=25 April 2005 |access-date=18 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.proplusmedical.com/pages.html?pages_id=8 |title=Female Sexual Response Cycle |publisher=Proplusmedical.com |access-date=18 February 2013}}</ref><ref name="Koedt70">{{cite web |last = Koedt |first = Anne |title = The Myth of the Vaginal Orgasm |publisher = Chicago Women's Liberation Union |year = 1970 |url = http://www.cwluherstory.org/myth-of-the-vaginal-orgasm.html |access-date = 18 November 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160819232224/http://www.cwluherstory.org/myth-of-the-vaginal-orgasm.html |archive-date = 19 August 2016 }}</ref>

===Sexual dysfunction and sexual problems===
{{main|Sexual dysfunction}}
Sexual disorders, according to the DSM-IV-TR, are disturbances in sexual desire and psycho-physiological changes that characterize the sexual response cycle and cause marked distress and interpersonal difficulty. The sexual dysfunctions is a result of physical or psychological disorders. The physical causes include hormonal imbalance, diabetes, heart disease and more. The psychological causes includes but are not limited to stress, anxiety, and depression.<ref>{{cite web|title=Female Sexual Dysfunction|url=http://www.webmd.com/women/guide/sexual-dysfunction-women|website=webmd.com|publisher=webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref> The sexual dysfunction affects men and women. There are four major categories of sexual problems for women: desire disorders, arousal disorders, orgasmic disorders, and sexual pain disorders.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The sexual desire disorder occurs when an individual lacks the sexual desire because of hormonal changes, depression, and pregnancy. The arousal disorder is a female sexual dysfunction. Arousal disorder means lack of vaginal lubrication. In addition, blood flow problems may affect arousal disorder. Lack of orgasm, also known as, anorgasmia is another sexual dysfunction in women. The anorgasmia occurs in women with psychological disorders such as guilt and anxiety that was caused by sexual assault. The last sexual disorder is the painful intercourse. The sexual disorder can be result of pelvic mass, scar tissue, sexually transmitted disease and more.<ref>{{cite web|title=Female Sexual Dysfunction|url=http://www.webmd.com/women/guide/sexual-dysfunction-women?page=2|website=webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref>

There are also three common sexual disorders for men including, sexual desire, ejaculation disorder, and erectile dysfunction. The lack of sexual desire in men is because of loss of libido, low testosterone. There are also psychological factors such as anxiety, and depression.<ref>{{cite web|title=Male Sexual Problems|url=http://www.webmd.com/men/guide/mental-health-male-sexual-problems?page=2|website=Webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref>
The ejaculation disorder has three types: retrograde ejaculation, retarded ejaculation, premature ejaculation. The erectile dysfunction is a disability to have and maintain an erection during intercourse.<ref>{{cite book|title=Our Bodies, Ourselves|date=2011|publisher=Boston Women's Health Book Collective|isbn=978-0-7432-5611-7|edition=35th|url=https://archive.org/details/ourbodiesoursel00bost}}</ref>

==Psychological aspects==


As one form of behavior, the psychological aspects of sexual expression have been studied in the context of emotional involvement, gender identity, intersubjective [[intimacy]], and Darwinian reproductive efficacy. Sexuality in humans generates profound emotional and psychological responses. Some theorists identify sexuality as the central source of human personality.<ref>{{cite book |author=John Russon |title=Bearing Witness to Epiphany: Persons, Things, and the Nature of Erotic Life |publisher=State University of New York Press |location=Albany |year=2009 |isbn=978-1-4384-2504-7 |author-link=John Russon }}</ref> Psychological studies of sexuality focus on psychological influences that affect sexual behavior and experiences.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007" />{{page needed|date=February 2016}} Early psychological analyses were carried out by [[Sigmund Freud]], who believed in a [[Psychoanalysis|psychoanalytic]] approach. He also proposed the concepts of [[psychosexual development]] and the [[Oedipus complex]], among other theories.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psychology.about.com/od/theoriesofpersonality/ss/psychosexualdev.htm |title=What is Psychosexual Development? |author= Cherry, Kendra|publisher=About.com |access-date=12 October 2009}}{{better source|date=February 2016}}{{better source|date=February 2016}}</ref>

Gender identity is a person's sense of their own [[gender]], whether male, female, or [[Non-binary gender|non-binary]].<ref name="MorrowMessinger">''Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression in Social Work Practice'', edited by Deana F. Morrow and Lori Messinger (2006, {{ISBN|0231501862}}), p. 8: "Gender identity refers to an individual's personal sense of identity as masculine or feminine, or some combination thereof."</ref> Gender identity can correlate with [[assigned sex]] at birth or can differ from it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hrc.org/resources/sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-terminology-and-definitions|title=Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Definitions |first=Human Rights|last=Campaign}}</ref> All societies have a set of gender categories that can serve as the basis of the formation of a person's [[social identity]] in relation to other members of society.<ref>V. M. Moghadam, ''Patriarchy and the politics of gender in modernising societies'', in ''International Sociology'', 1992: "All societies have gender systems."</ref>

Sexual behavior and intimate relationships are strongly influenced by a person's sexual orientation.<ref name="Coon, D. 2007">Coon, D., & Mitterer, J.O. (2007). Introduction to psychology: gateways to mind and behavior (11th ed.). Australia: [[Thomson/Wadsworth]].</ref>

Sexual orientation is an enduring pattern of [[Romance (love)|romantic]] or [[Sexual attraction|sexual]] attraction (or a combination of these) to persons of the opposite sex, same sex, or both sexes.<ref name="Coon, D. 2007"/> Heterosexual people are romantically/sexually attracted to the members of the opposite sex, gay and lesbian people are romantically/sexually attracted to people of the same sex, and those who are bisexual are romantically/sexually attracted to both sexes.<ref name="AmPsycholAssn-whatis"/>

The idea that homosexuality results from reversed gender roles is reinforced by the media's portrayal of male homosexuals as effeminate and female homosexuals as masculine.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} However, a person's conformity or non-conformity to gender stereotypes does not always predict sexual orientation. Society believes that if a man is masculine he is heterosexual, and if a man is feminine he is homosexual. There is no strong evidence that a homosexual or bisexual orientation must be associated with atypical gender roles. By the early 21st century, homosexuality was no longer considered to be a pathology. Theories have linked many factors, including genetic, anatomical, birth order, and hormones in the prenatal environment, to homosexuality.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Other than the need to procreate, there are many other reasons people have sex. According to one study conducted on college students (Meston & Buss, 2007), the four [[Portal:Main|main]] reasons for sexual activities are; physical attraction, as a means to an end, to increase emotional connection, and to alleviate insecurity.<ref>{{cite book |title=Psychology |url=https://archive.org/details/psychology0000scha |url-access=registration |year=2011 |publisher=Worth Publishers |page=[https://archive.org/details/psychology0000scha/page/336 336]|author1=Daniel L. Schacter |author2=Daniel T. Gilbert |author3=Daniel M. Wegner }}</ref>

==Sexuality and age==
===Child sexuality===
{{Main|Child sexuality}}
Until [[Sigmund Freud]] published his ''[[Three Essays on the Theory of Sexuality]]'' in 1905, children were often regarded as [[Asexuality|asexual]], having no sexuality until later development. Sigmund Freud was one of the first researchers to take child sexuality seriously. His ideas, such as psychosexual development and the Oedipus conflict, have been much debated but acknowledging the existence of child sexuality was an important development.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008">Santrock, J.W. (2008). A Topical Approach to Life-Span Development (4th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.</ref>

Freud gave sexual drives an importance and centrality in human life, actions, and behavior; he said sexual drives exist and can be discerned in children from birth. He explains this in his theory of [[infantile sexuality]], and says sexual energy ([[libido]]) is the most important motivating force in adult life. Freud wrote about the importance of interpersonal relationships to one's sexual and emotional development. From birth, the mother's connection to the infant affects the infant's later capacity for pleasure and [[attachment theory|attachment]].<ref>{{cite journal | last1 = Bretherton | first1 = Inge | year = 1992 | title = The origins of attachment theory: John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth | url = http://cmapspublic2.ihmc.us/rid=1LQX400NM-RBVKH9-1KL6/the%20origins%20of%20attachment%20theory%20john%20bowlby%20and%20mary%20ainsworth.pdf | journal = Developmental Psychology | volume = 28 | issue = 5| pages = 759–775 | doi=10.1037/0012-1649.28.5.759}}</ref> Freud described two currents of emotional life; an affectionate current, including our bonds with the important people in our lives; and a sensual current, including our wish to gratify sexual impulses. During adolescence, a young person tries to integrate these two emotional currents.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Alcorn|first1=Jean-Michel Quinodoz; translated by David|title=Reading Freud: a chronological exploration of Freud's writings|date=2005|isbn=978-1-317-71050-9|page=165|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A8hdAgAAQBAJ&pg=PT165}}</ref>

[[Alfred Kinsey]] also examined child sexuality in his [[Kinsey Reports]]. Children are naturally curious about their bodies and sexual functions. For example, they wonder where babies come from, they notice the differences between males and females, and many engage in [[genital play]], which is often mistaken for masturbation. Child sex play, also known as [[playing doctor]], includes exhibiting or inspecting the genitals. Many children take part in some sex play, typically with siblings or friends.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008"/> Sex play with others usually decreases as children grow, but they may later possess romantic interest in their peers. Curiosity levels remain high during these years, but the main surge in sexual interest occurs in adolescence.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008"/>

===Sexuality in late adulthood===
{{Main|Sexuality in older age}}
Adult sexuality originates in childhood. However, like many other human capacities, sexuality is not fixed, but matures and develops. A common stereotype associated with old people is that they tend to lose interest and the ability to engage in sexual acts once they reach late adulthood. This misconception is reinforced by Western popular culture, which often ridicules older adults who try to engage in sexual activities. Age does not necessarily change the need or desire to be sexually expressive or active. A couple in a long-term relationship may find that the frequency of their sexual activity decreases over time and the type of sexual expression may change, but many couples experience increased intimacy and love.<ref name=jrank>[http://family.jrank.org/pages/1532/Sexuality-in-Adulthood-Aging.html Sexuality in Adulthood – Aging], JRank Marriage and Family Encyclopedia, Net Industries</ref>

==Sociocultural aspects==
[[File:Leffler - WomensLib1970 WashingtonDC.jpg|thumb|right|450 px|A [[Second-wave feminism|Women's Liberation]] march in the U.S. Washington, DC, August 1970. March was from Farrugut Square to Lafayette Park.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.loc.gov/pictures/item/2003673992/ |title=Women's liberation march from Farrugut Square to Layfette (Lafayette Park) |publisher=Loc.gov |access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}]]
[[File:Demonstration, with Gay Liberation Front Banner, c1972 (7374381322).jpg|thumb|right|200 px|A [[Gay Liberation]] march in London, UK, ca. 1972. A Gay Liberation Front banner is visible. Location is believed to be Trafalgar Square.<ref>[http://archives.lse.ac.uk/Record.aspx?src=CalmView.Catalog&id=IMAGELIBRARY/1370]</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}]]

Human sexuality can be understood as part of the social life of humans, which is governed by implied rules of behavior and the status quo. This narrows the view to groups within a society.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The socio-cultural context of society, including the effects of politics and the mass media, influences and forms social norms. Throughout history, social norms have been changing and continue to change as a result of movements such as the sexual revolution and the rise of [[feminism]].<ref name=Escoffier2003>{{cite book |editor=Escoffier, Jeffrey |title=Sexual Revolution |publisher=Running Press |year=2003 |isbn=978-1-56025-525-3 |url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9781560255253 }}</ref><ref name="Friedan">{{cite news|title=Betty Friedan, Who Ignited Cause in 'Feminine Mystique,' Dies at 85 |url=http://www-nc.nytimes.com/2006/02/05/national/05friedan.html |work=The New York Times |date=5 February 2006 |access-date=12 October 2009}}{{subscription}}</ref>

=== Sex education ===
The age and manner in which children are informed of issues of sexuality is a matter of sex education. The school systems in almost all developed countries have some form of sex education, but the nature of the issues covered varies widely. In some countries, such as Australia and much of Europe, age-appropriate sex education often begins in pre-school, whereas other countries leave sex education to the pre-teenage and teenage years.<ref>{{cite news|title=Think Sex |publisher=TheAge.com.au |access-date=11 October 2009|url=https://www.theage.com.au/news/education-news/think-sex/2006/05/28/1148754861223.html}}</ref> Sex education covers a range of topics, including the physical, mental, and social aspects of sexual behavior. Geographic location also plays a role in society's opinion of the appropriate age for children to learn about sexuality. According to ''TIME'' magazine and CNN,{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}} 74% of teenagers in the United States reported that their major sources of sexual information were their peers and the media, compared to 10% who named their parents or a sex education course.<ref name="ReferenceA" />{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

In the United States, most sex education programs encourage [[Abstinence-only sex education|abstinence]], the choice to restrain oneself from sexual activity. In contrast, [[comprehensive sex education]] aims to encourage students to take charge of their own sexuality and know how to have safe, healthy, and pleasurable sex if and when they choose to do so.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.guttmacher.org/sites/default/files/report_downloads/demystifying-data-handouts_0.pdf|title=A Definition of Comprehensive Sexuality Education|last=Panchaud|first=Christine|date=2016|website=Guttmacher Institute}}</ref>

Proponents for an abstinence-only education believe that teaching a comprehensive curriculum would encourage teenagers to have sex, while proponents for comprehensive sex education argue that many teenagers will have sex regardless and should be equipped with knowledge of how to have sex responsibly. According to data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, many teens who intend to be abstinent fail to do so, and when these teenagers do have sex, many do not use safe sex practices such as contraceptives.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Bearman|first=Peter|date=2001|title=Promising the Future: Virginity Pledges and First Intercourse|journal=American Journal of Sociology|volume=106|issue=4|pages=859–912|doi=10.1086/320295|s2cid=142684938|url=https://academiccommons.columbia.edu/doi/10.7916/D8ZG73VN/download}}</ref>

===Sexuality in history===
{{Main|History of human sexuality}}
{{one source | section|date=February 2016}}


Sexuality has been an important, vital part of human existence throughout history.<ref name="ReferenceC">{{cite book | author = Stearns, Peter N. | year = 2009| title = Sexuality in World History | isbn = 978-0-415-77777-3 }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} All civilizations have managed sexuality through sexual standards, representations, and behavior.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before the rise of agriculture, groups of hunter-gatherers and nomadic groups inhabited the world. These groups had less restrictive sexual standards that emphasized sexual pleasure and enjoyment, but with definite rules and constraints. Some underlying continuities or key regulatory standards contended with the tension between recognition of pleasure, interest, and the need to procreate for the sake of social order and economic survival. Hunter-gatherers also placed high value on certain types of sexual symbolism.

A common tension in hunter-gatherer societies is expressed in their art, which emphasized male sexuality and prowess, but also blurred gender lines in sexual matters. One example of these male-dominated portrayals is the [[Egyptian creation myth]], in which the sun god [[Atum]] masturbates in the water, creating the [[Nile River]]. In [[Sumerian religion|Sumerian]] myth, the gods' semen filled the [[Tigris]].<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Once agricultural societies emerged, the sexual framework shifted in ways that persisted for many millennia in much of Asia, Africa, Europe, and parts of the Americas. One common characteristic new to these societies was the collective supervision of sexual behavior due to urbanization and the growth of population and population density. Children would commonly witness parents having sex because many families shared the same sleeping quarters. Due to land ownership, determination of children's paternity became important, and society and family life became patriarchal.{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}} These changes in sexual ideology were used to control female sexuality and to differentiate standards by gender. With these ideologies, sexual possessiveness and increases in jealousy emerged.

While retaining the precedents of earlier civilizations, each classical civilization established a somewhat distinctive approach to gender, artistic expression of sexual beauty, and to behaviors such as homosexuality. Some of these distinctions are portrayed in sex manuals, which were also common among civilizations in China, Greece, Rome, Persia, and India; each has its own sexual history.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before the [[High Middle Ages]], homosexual acts appear to have been ignored or tolerated by the Christian church.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu">{{cite web|url=http://psychology.ucdavis.edu/rainbow/html/facts_mental_health.html |title=Homosexuality and Mental Health |publisher=Psychology.ucdavis.edu |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref> During the 12th century, hostility toward homosexuality began to spread throughout religious and secular institutions. By the end of the 19th century, it was viewed as a pathology.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu"/>

During the beginning of the [[industrial revolution]] of the 18th and 19th centuries, many changes in sexual standards occurred. New artificial birth control devices such as the [[condom]] and [[diaphragm (contraceptive)|diaphragm]] were introduced. Doctors started claiming a new role in sexual matters, urging that their advice was crucial to sexual morality and health. New pornographic industries grew and Japan adopted its first laws against homosexuality. In Western societies, the definition of homosexuality was constantly changing; Western influence on other cultures became more prevalent. New contacts created serious issues around sexuality and sexual traditions. There were also major shifts in sexual behavior. During this period, puberty began occurring at younger ages, so a new focus on adolescence as a time of sexual confusion and danger emerged. There was a new focus on the purpose of marriage; it was increasing regarded as being for love rather than only for economics and reproduction.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

[[Havelock Ellis]] and Sigmund Freud adopted more accepting stances toward homosexuality; Ellis said homosexuality was inborn and therefore not immoral, not a disease, and that many homosexuals made significant contributions to society.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu"/> Freud wrote that all human beings as capable of becoming either heterosexual or homosexual; neither orientation was assumed to be innate.<ref name="King, B. 2009">{{cite book | author = King, Bruce M. | year = 2009 | title = Human Sexuality Today | edition = 6th | location = Upper Saddle River, NJ| publisher = Pearson Education }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} According to Freud, a person's orientation depended on the resolution of the Oedipus complex. He said male homosexuality resulted when a young boy had an authoritarian, rejecting mother and turned to his father for love and affection, and later to men in general. He said female homosexuality developed when a girl loved her mother and identified with her father, and became fixated at that stage.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

[[Alfred Kinsey]] initiated the modern era of sex research. He collected data from questionnaires given to his students at [[Indiana University]], but then switched to personal interviews about sexual behaviors. Kinsey and his colleagues sampled 5,300 men and 5,940 women. He found that most people masturbated, that many engaged in [[oral sex]], that women are capable of having multiple orgasms, and that many men had had some type of homosexual experience in their lifetimes. <ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before [[William Masters]], a physician, and [[Virginia E. Johnson|Virginia Johnson]], a [[behavioral scientist]], the study of anatomy and physiological studies of sex was still limited to experiments with laboratory animals. Masters and Johnson started to directly observe and record the physical responses in humans that are engaged in sexual activity under laboratory settings. They observed 10,000 episodes of sexual acts between 312 men and 382 women. This led to methods of treating clinical problems and abnormalities. Masters and Johnson opened the first sex therapy clinic in 1965. In 1970, they described their therapeutic techniques in their book, ''[[Human Sexual Inadequacy]]''.{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

In the first edition of The [[Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders]], the [[American Psychological Association|American Psychiatric Association]] classified homosexuality as a mental illness, and more specifically, a "sociopathic personality disturbance".<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal|last=Drescher|first=Jack|date=4 December 2015|title=Out of DSM: Depathologizing Homosexuality|journal=Behavioral Sciences|volume=5|issue=4|pages=565–575|doi=10.3390/bs5040565|issn=2076-328X|pmc=4695779|pmid=26690228}}</ref> This definition remained the professional understanding of homosexuality until 1973 when the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from their list of diagnoses for mental disorders.<ref name=":1" /> Through her research of heterosexual and homosexual men, [[Evelyn Hooker]] revealed that there was no correlation between homosexuality and psychological maladjustment,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/02/myth-buster|title=The myth buster|work=apa.org|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> and her findings played a pivotal role in shifting the scientific community away from the perspective that homosexuality was something that needed to be treated or cured.{{citation needed|date=October 2019}}

=== Sexuality, colonialism, and race ===
European conquerors/colonists found sexuality out of their norm about 1516 when [[Vasco Núñez de Balboa]], a Spanish explorer, discovered indigenous people in Central America with different sexual practices. Balboa found some indigenous men {{clarify|text=dressed up as women,|reason=It is unclear whether this means dressed in what the indigenes considered female attire or means dressed in what Balboa considered female attire.|date=April 2020}} resulting in him feeding forty of these men to his dogs for having different sexual practices. In North America and the United States, Europeans have used claims of sexual immorality to justify discrimination against racial and ethnic minorities.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Dictionary of American History|last=Turner|first=William B.|publisher=Charles Scribner's Sons|year=2003|location=New York, NY|pages=328–333}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=January 2020}}

Scholars also study the ways in which [[colonialism]] has affected sexuality today and argue that due to [[racism]] and [[slavery in the United States|slavery]] it has been dramatically changed from the way it had previously been understood.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3KBFhDytERkC|title=Women of Color and Feminism|last1=Rojas|first1=Maythee|date=2009|publisher=Seal Press|isbn=978-1-58005-272-6|edition=1st|ref=https://books.google.com/books?id=3KBFhDytERkC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false}}</ref>

In her book, ''Carnal Knowledge and Imperial Power: Gender, Race, and Morality in Colonial Asia'', Laura Stoler investigates how the Dutch used sexual control and gender-specific sexual sanctions to distinguish between the rulers from the ruled and enforce colonial domination onto the people of Indonesia.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Carnal Knowledge and Imperial Power: Gender, Race, and Morality in Colonial Asia|last=Stoler|first=Ann|publisher=University of California Press|year=2002}}</ref>

In America, there are 155 native tribes that are recorded to have embraced [[two-spirit]] people within their tribes, but the total number of tribes could be greater than what is documented.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Changing Ones: Third and Fourth Genders in Native North America|last=Roscoe|first=Will|publisher=Palgrave Macmillan|year=1998}}</ref> Two-spirit people were and still are members of communities who do not fall under Western gender categories of male and female, but rather under a "third gender" category.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Wilson|first=Trista|date=2011|journal=American Indian Law Review|volume=36|issue=1|pages=161–188|issn=0094-002X|jstor=41495705|title=Changed Embraces, Changes Embraced? Renouncing the Heterosexist Majority in Favor of a Return to Traditional Two-Spirit Culture}}</ref> This system of gender contradicts both the gender binary and the assertion that sex and gender are the same.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title=Becoming Two-Spirit: Gay Identity and Social Acceptance in Indian Country|last=Gilley|first=Brian|publisher=University of Nebraska Press|year=2006}}</ref> Instead of conforming to traditional roles of men and women, two-spirit fill a special niche in their communities.

For example, two-spirited people are commonly revered for possessing special wisdom and spiritual powers.<ref name=":0" /> Two-spirited people also can take part in marriages, either monogamous and polygamous ones.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Living the Spirit: a Gay American Indian Anthology|last=Roscoe|first=Will|publisher=St. Martins Press|year=1988}}</ref> Historically, European colonizers perceived relationships involving two-spirited people as homosexuality, and therefore believed in the moral inferiority of native people.<ref name=":0" /> In reaction, colonizers began to impose their own religious and social norms on indigenous communities, diminishing the role of two-spirit people in native cultures.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Jacobi|first=Jeffrey|date=2006|title=Two Spirits, Two Eras, Same Sex: For a Traditionalist Perspective on Native American Tribal Same-Sex Marriage Policy|journal=University of Michigan Journal of Law Reform}}</ref> Within reservations, the Religious Crime Code of the 1880s explicitly aimed to "aggressively attack Native sexual and marriage practices".<ref name=":0" /> The goal of colonizers was for native peoples to assimilate into Euro-American ideals of family, sexuality, gender expression, and more.<ref name=":0" />

The link between constructed sexual meanings and racial ideologies has been studied. According to Joane Nagel, sexual meanings are constructed to maintain racial-ethnic-national boundaries by the denigration of "others" and regulation of sexual behavior within the group. She writes, "both adherence to and deviation from such approved behaviors, define and reinforce racial, ethnic, and nationalist regimes".<ref name=Nagel>{{cite journal |author=Nagel, Joane |date=August 2000 |title=Ethnicity and Sexuality |journal=Annual Review of Sociology |volume=26 |pages=107–133 |doi=10.1146/annurev.soc.26.1.107|s2cid=145064276 |url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/ddb5a444cf727ad2f8209449dc14839ad38d025a }}</ref><ref name=Nagel2>{{cite journal|author=Nagel, Joane |year=2001 |title=Racial, Ethnic, and National Boundaries: Sexual Intersections and Symbolic Interactions |journal=Symbolic Interaction |volume=24 | issue = 2 |pages=123–139 |doi=10.1525/si.2001.24.2.123}}</ref> In the United States people of color face the effects of colonialism in different ways with stereotypes such as the Mammy, and Jezebel for Black women; [[Stereotypes of East Asians in the United States|lotus blossom, and dragon lady]] for Asian women; and the "spicy" Latina.<ref name="Mammy Jezebel and Sistahs on Racism.org">{{cite web|last1=Yarbrough|first1=Marilyn|last2=Bennet|first2=Crystal|title=Mammy Jezebel and Sistahs|url=http://racism.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1277:aawomen01a&catid=72&Itemid=215|website=Race, Racism and the Law!|publisher=racism.org|access-date=30 November 2015|ref=http://racism.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1277:aawomen01a&catid=72&Itemid=215}}</ref> These stereotypes contrast with standards of sexual conservatism, creating a dichotomy that dehumanizes and demonizes the stereotyped groups. An example of a stereotype that lies at the intersection of racism, classism, and misogyny is the archetype of the “[[welfare queen]].” Cathy Cohen describes how the "welfare queen" stereotype demonizes poor black single mothers for deviating from conventions surrounding family structure.<ref>{{Citation|chapter=Punks, Bulldaggers, and Welfare Queens|date=2005|pages=21–51|publisher=Duke University Press|doi=10.1215/9780822387220-003|isbn=9780822336297|title=Black Queer Studies|s2cid=48259239|chapter-url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/dfe95a5259e4f128f476dc444f07ae6e5369753b|last1=Cohen|first1=Cathy J.}}</ref>

===Reproductive and sexual rights===
{{Further|Reproductive health|Reproductive rights}}
[[Reproductive and sexual rights]] encompass the concept of applying [[human rights]] to issues related to reproduction and sexuality.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/gender_rights/sexual_health/en/ |title=WHO | Gender and human rights |publisher=Who.int |date=31 January 2002 |access-date=5 August 2014}}</ref> This concept is a modern one, and remains controversial since it deals, directly and indirectly, with issues such as [[contraception]], [[LGBT rights]], [[abortion]], [[sex education]], freedom to choose a partner, freedom to decide whether to be sexually active or not, right to bodily integrity, freedom to decide whether or not, and when, to have children.<ref>
{{cite journal |last=Stark |first=Barbara |year=2011 |title=The Women's Convention, Reproductive Rights, and the Reproduction of Gender |journal=Duke Journal of Gender Law & Policy |volume=18 |issue=261 |pages=261–304 |publisher=Duke University School of Law |access-date=3 November 2014 |url=http://scholarship.law.duke.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1189&context=djglp}}</ref><ref>
{{cite journal |author1=Sandfort, Theo G.M. |author2=Ehrhardt, Anke A. |date=June 2004 |title=Sexual Health: A Useful Public Health Paradigm or a Moral Imperative? |journal=Archives of Sexual Behavior |volume=33 |issue=3 |pages=181–187 |publisher=Springer Science and Business Media B.V. |pmid=15129037 |access-date=3 November 2014 |url=http://mph.ufl.edu/files/2012/01/session4jan22Sandfort2004.pdf |doi=10.1023/b:aseb.0000026618.16408.e0 |s2cid=36553310 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531124301/http://mph.ufl.edu/files/2012/01/session4jan22Sandfort2004.pdf |archive-date=31 May 2014 }}</ref> These are all global issues that exist in all cultures to some extent, but manifest differently depending on the specific contexts.

According to the Swedish government, "sexual rights include the right of all people to decide over their own bodies and sexuality" and "reproductive rights comprise the right of individuals to decide on the number of children they have and the intervals at which they are born."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/14/89/712f7e0c.pdf|title=Sweden's international policy on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights|publisher=Sweden Ministry of Foreign Affairs|year=2006|access-date=3 November 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531105838/http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/14/89/712f7e0c.pdf|archive-date=31 May 2014}}</ref> Such rights are not accepted in all cultures, with practices such criminalization of consensual sexual activities (such as those related to homosexual acts and sexual acts outside marriage), acceptance of [[forced marriage]] and [[child marriage]], failure to criminalize all non-consensual sexual encounters (such as [[marital rape]]), [[female genital mutilation]], or restricted availability of contraception, being common around the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/news/sexual-and-reproductive-rights-under-threat-worldwide-2014-03-06 |title=Sexual and reproductive rights under threat worldwide | Amnesty International |publisher=Amnesty.org |access-date=5 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/issues/women-s-rights/women-s-health-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/my-body-my-rights |title=My Body, My Rights! |publisher=Amnesty International |year=2013 |access-date=3 November 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407051912/http://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/issues/women-s-rights/women-s-health-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/my-body-my-rights |archive-date=7 April 2014 }}</ref>

=== Stigma of contraceptives in the U.S. ===
In 1915, Emma Goldman and Margaret Sanger,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/goldman/MeetEmmaGoldman/birthcontrolpioneer.html|title=Birth Control Pioneer|website=lib.berkeley.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> leaders of the birth control movement, began to spread information regarding contraception in opposition to the laws, such as the Comstock Law,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/comstock-law-1873|title=The Comstock Law (1873) {{!}} The Embryo Project Encyclopedia|website=embryo.asu.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> that demonized it. One of their main purposes was to assert that the birth control movement was about empowering women with personal reproductive and economic freedom for those who could not afford to parent a child or simply did not want one. Goldman and Sanger saw it necessary to educate people as contraceptives were quickly being stigmatized as a population control tactic due to being a policy limiting births, disregarding that this limitation did not target ecological, political, or large economic conditions.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Gordon|first=L.|date=1974|title=The politics of population: birth control and the eugenics movement|journal=Radical America|volume=8|issue=4|pages=61–98|issn=0033-7617|pmid=11615086}}</ref> This stigma targeted lower-class women who had the most need of access to contraception.

Birth control finally began to lose stigma in 1936 when the ruling of U.S. v. One Package<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/united-states-v-one-package-japanese-pessaries-1936|title=United States v. One Package of Japanese Pessaries (1936) {{!}} The Embryo Project Encyclopedia|website=embryo.asu.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> declared that prescribing contraception to save a person's life or well-being was no longer illegal under the Comstock Law. Although opinions varied on when birth control should be available to women, by 1938, there were 347 birth control clinics in the United States but advertising their services remained illegal.

The stigma continued to lose credibility as First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt publicly showed her support for birth control through the four terms her husband served (1933–1945). However, it was not until 1966 that the Federal Government began to fund family planning and subsidized birth control services for lower-class women and families at the order of President Lyndon B. Johnson. This funding continued after 1970 under the Family Planning Services and Population Research Act.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4847a1.htm|title=Achievements in Public Health, 1900–1999: Family Planning|website=cdc.gov|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> Today, all Health Insurance Marketplace plans are required to cover all forms of contraception, including sterilization procedures, as a result of The Affordable Care Act signed by President Barack Obama in 2010.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/affordable-care-act/|title=Affordable Care Act (ACA) – HealthCare.gov Glossary|website=HealthCare.gov|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref>

=== Stigma and activism during the AIDS epidemic ===
In 1981, doctors diagnosed the first reported cases of [[HIV/AIDS|AIDS]] in America. The disease disproportionately affected and continues to affect gay and bisexual men, especially black and Latino men.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.kff.org/hivaids/fact-sheet/the-hivaids-epidemic-in-the-united-states-the-basics/ |title=The HIV/AIDS Epidemic in the United States: The Basics |website=The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation |access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> The Reagan administration is criticized for its apathy towards the AIDS epidemic, and audio recordings reveal that Ronald Reagan's press secretary Larry Speakes viewed the epidemic as a joke, mocking AIDS by calling it the "gay plague".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vox.com/2015/12/1/9828348/ronald-reagan-hiv-aids|title=The Reagan administration's unbelievable response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic|last=Lopez|first=German|date=1 December 2015|website=Vox|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> The epidemic also carried stigma coming from religious influences. For example, Cardinal Krol voiced that AIDS was "an act of vengeance against the sin of homosexuality", which clarifies the specific meaning behind the pope's mention of "the moral source of AIDS."<ref>{{Cite journal|last=POIRIER|first=RICHARD|date=1988|title=AIDS and Traditions of Homophobia|journal=Social Research|volume=55|issue=3|pages=461–475|issn=0037-783X|jstor=40970515}}</ref>

[[HIV/AIDS activism|Activism]] during the AIDS crisis focused on promoting safe sex practices to raise awareness that the disease could be prevented. The "Safe Sex is Hot Sex" campaign, for example, aimed to promote the use of condoms.<ref name="Geiling">{{Cite web|url=https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-confusing-and-at-times-counterproductive-1980s-response-to-the-aids-epidemic-180948611/|title=The Confusing and At-Times Counterproductive 1980s Response to the AIDS Epidemic|last=Geiling|first=Natasha|website=Smithsonian|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> Campaigns by the U.S. government, however, diverged from advocacy of safe sex. In 1987, Congress even denied federal funding from awareness campaigns that "[promoted] or [encouraged], directly or indirectly, homosexual activities".<ref name="Geiling"/> Instead, campaigns by the government primarily relied on scare tactics in order to instill fear in men who had sex with other men.<ref name="Geiling"/>

In addition to prevention campaigns, activists also sought to counteract narratives that led to the "social death" for people living with AIDS.<ref name="Wright 1788–1798">{{Cite journal|last=Wright|first=Joe|date=15 August 2013|title=Only Your Calamity: The Beginnings of Activism by and for People With AIDS|journal=American Journal of Public Health|volume=103|issue=10|pages=1788–1798|doi=10.2105/AJPH.2013.301381|issn=0090-0036|pmc=3780739|pmid=23948013}}</ref> [[Gay men]] from San Francisco and New York City created the Denver Principles, a foundational document that demanded the rights, agency, and dignity of people living with AIDS.<ref name="Wright 1788–1798"/>

In his article "Emergence of Gay Identity and Gay Social Movements in Developing Countries", Matthew Roberts discusses how international AIDS prevention campaigns created opportunities for gay men to interact with other openly gay men from other countries.<ref name="Roberts 243–264">{{Cite journal|last=Roberts|first=Matthew W.|date=April 1995|title=Emergence of Gay Identity and Gay Social Movements in Developing Countries: The AIDS Crisis as Catalyst|journal=Alternatives: Global, Local, Political|volume=20|issue=2|pages=243–264|doi=10.1177/030437549502000205|s2cid=140772471|issn=0304-3754}}</ref> These interactions allowed western gay "culture" to be introduced to gay men in countries where homosexuality wasn't an important identifier. Thus, group organizers self-identified as gay more and more, creating the basis for further development of gay consciousness in different countries.<ref name="Roberts 243–264"/>

==Sexual behavior==
===General activities and health===
{{Main|Human sexual activity}}
{{See also|Sexual intercourse#Health effects|Sexually active life expectancy}}

In humans, sexual intercourse and sexual activity {{citation needed|date=December 2020}} in general have been shown to have health benefits, such as an improved sense of smell,{{citation needed|date=June 2016}} reduction in [[Stress (biology)|stress]] and blood pressure,<ref name="webmd.com">Doheny, K. (2008) [http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/10-surprising-health-benefits-of-sex "10 Surprising Health Benefits of Sex,"] [[WebMD]] (reviewed by Chang, L., M.D.)</ref><ref>Light, K.C. et al., "More frequent partner hugs and higher oxytocin levels are linked to lower blood pressure and heart rate in premenopausal women." ''Biological Psychology'', April 2005; vol 69: pp 5–21.</ref> increased [[immune system|immunity]],<ref>Charnetski CJ, Brennan FX. Sexual frequency and salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA). ''Psychological Reports'' 2004 Jun;94(3 Pt 1):839–844. Data on length of relationship and sexual satisfaction were not related to the group differences.</ref> and decreased risk of [[prostate cancer]].<ref>Michael F. Leitzmann; Edward Giovannucci. Frequency of Ejaculation and Risk of Prostate Cancer – Reply. ''JAMA''. (2004);292:329.</ref><ref>Leitzmann MF, Platz EA, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC, Giovannucci E. Ejaculation Frequency and Subsequent Risk of Prostate Cancer. ''JAMA''. (2004);291(13):1578–1586.</ref><ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 12887469 | volume=92 | issue=3 | title=Sexual factors and prostate cancer | date=August 2003 | journal=BJU Int. | pages=211–216 | last1 = Giles | first1 = GG | last2 = Severi | first2 = G | last3 = English | first3 = DR | display-authors = etal | doi=10.1046/j.1464-410x.2003.04319.x| s2cid=29430415 | doi-access=free }}</ref> Sexual intimacy and orgasms increase levels of oxytocin, which helps people bond and build trust.<ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 19482229 | doi=10.1016/j.pneurobio.2009.04.001 | volume=88 | issue=2 | title=Oxytocin: the great facilitator of life | pmc=2689929 | date=June 2009 | journal=Prog. Neurobiol. | pages=127–151 | last1 = Lee | first1 = HJ | last2 = Macbeth | first2 = AH | last3 = Pagani | first3 = JH | last4 = Young | first4 = WS}}</ref><ref>Riley AJ. Oxytocin and coitus. ''Sexual and Relationship Therapy'' (1988);3:29–36</ref><ref>Carter CS. Oxytocin and sexual behavior. ''Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews'' (1992);16(2):131–144</ref>

A long-term study of 3,500 people between ages 30 and 101 by clinical neuropsychologist David Weeks, MD, head of old-age psychology at the [[Royal Edinburgh Hospital]] in Scotland, said he found that "sex helps you look between four and seven years younger", according to impartial ratings of the subjects' photographs. Exclusive causation, however, is unclear, and the benefits may be indirectly related to sex and directly related to significant reductions in stress, greater contentment, and better sleep that sex promotes.<ref>{{cite web|last=Blum|first=Jeffrey |title=Can Good Sex Keep You Young?|url=http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=51501|website=WebMD|access-date=8 October 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Weeks|first=David|title=Secrets of the Superyoung|year=1999|publisher=Berkley|isbn=978-0-425-17258-2|page=[https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780425172582/page/277 277]|url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780425172582/page/277}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Northrup|first=Christiane|title=Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing|year=2010|publisher=Bantam|isbn=978-0-553-80793-6|page=960|url={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=V9S3keMnie8C |page=232 }} }}</ref>

Sexual intercourse can also be a [[vector (epidemiology)|disease vector]].<ref>"[http://www.4parents.gov/sexrisky/stds/common_std/common_std.html Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110625104729/http://www.4parents.gov/sexrisky/stds/common_std/common_std.html |date=25 June 2011 }}". U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.</ref> There are 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) every year in the U.S.,<ref name="CDC">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats08/surv2008-Complete.pdf Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance], 2008. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; November 2009.[https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats08/2008survFactSheet.PDF Fact Sheet]</ref> and worldwide there are over 340 million STD infections each year.<ref name="who">World Health Organization Fact Sheet on Sexually Transmitted Diseases. {{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs110/en/print.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=24 July 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120709030847/http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs110/en/print.html |archive-date=9 July 2012 }} Accessed 27 May 2010</ref> More than half of these occur in adolescents and young adults aged 15–24 years.<ref>Weinstock H, et al. Sexually transmitted diseases among American youth: incidence and prevalence estimates, 2000. ''Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health'' (2004);36(1):6–10.</ref> At least one in four U.S. teenage girls has a sexually transmitted disease.<ref name="CDC"/><ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/science/12std.html?_r=1 Sex Infections Found in Quarter of Teenage Girls]. [[The New York Times]]. 12 March 2008.</ref> In the U.S., about 30% of 15- to 17-year-olds have had sexual intercourse, but only about 80% of 15- to 19-year-olds report using condoms for their first sexual intercourse.<ref>CDC. Sexual and Reproductive Health of Persons Aged 10–24 Years – United States, 2002–2007. MMWR 20009; 58 (No. SS-6):1–59 [https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/ss/ss5806.pdf]</ref> In one study, more than 75% of young women age 18–25 years felt they were at low risk of acquiring an STD.<ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 12855216 | volume=37 | issue=2 | title=Factors associated with condom use among at-risk women students and nonstudents seen in managed care | date=August 2003 | journal=Prev Med | pages=163–170 | last1 = Yarnall | first1 = KS | last2 = McBride | first2 = CM | last3 = Lyna | first3 = P | display-authors = etal | doi=10.1016/s0091-7435(03)00109-9}}</ref>

===Creating a relationship===
{{More citations needed section|date=June 2015}}
[[File:Eugen de Blaas The Flirtation.jpg|thumb|right|''The Flirtation'', [[Eugene de Blaas]], 1904.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.artrenewal.org/pages/artist.php?artistid=326 |title=Art Renewal Center Museum™ Artist Information for Eugene de Blaas |publisher=Artrenewal.org |access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref>]]
People both consciously and subconsciously seek to attract others with whom they can form deep relationships. This may be for companionship, procreation, or an intimate relationship. This involves interactive processes whereby people find and attract potential partners and maintain a relationship. These processes, which involve attracting one or more partners and maintaining sexual interest, can include:
* [[Flirting]], the attraction of the sexual attention of another to encourage romance or sexual relations. It can involve [[body language]], conversation, joking, or brief physical contact.<ref>[http://www.sirc.org/publik/flirt.html SIRC Guide to Flirting. What Social Science can tell you about flirting and how to do it.] Retrieved 13 October 2009.</ref> Flirting is a socially accepted way of attracting someone. There are different types of flirting, and most people usually have one way of flirting that makes them most comfortable. When flirting, people can be polite, playful, physical, etc. Sometimes it is difficult to know whether or not the person is interested.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.ku.edu/2013/09/11/new-book-outlines-five-types-flirting-styles |title= New book outlines five types of flirting styles |last=Schmidt |first=Megan | publisher=KU News Service |date=9 November 2013 |website=University of Kansas |access-date=7 December 2015}}</ref> Flirting styles vary according to culture. Different cultures have different social etiquette. For example, length of eye contact, or how closely one stands by someone.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.spiegel.de/international/0,1518,419712,00.html |title=Scoring a German: Flirting with Fräuleins, Hunting for Herren |publisher=Spiegel.de |access-date=7 December 2015}}</ref>
* [[Seduction]], the process whereby one person deliberately entices another to engage in sexual behavior.<ref>{{cite book | author=Greene, Robert | author-link=Robert Greene (author) | title=The Art of Seduction | publisher=Penguin Books | year=2003 | isbn=978-0-14-200119-6 | url=https://archive.org/details/artofseduction00robe_0 }}</ref> This behavior is one that the person you are seducing would not usually do, unless sexually aroused. Seduction can be seen as both a positive and a negative. Since the word seduction has a Latin meaning, which is "to lead astray" it can be viewed negatively.<ref>Buss, D. (1996) ''The Evolution of Desire: Strategies of Human Mating''.</ref>

===Sexual attraction===
{{Main|Sexual attraction}}
Sexual attraction is [[Attractiveness|attraction]] on the basis of [[sexual desire]] or the quality of arousing such interest.<ref name="Sexual attraction">{{cite web|title=Sexual attraction|publisher=[[TheFreeDictionary.com]]|access-date=16 December 2011|url=http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sexual+attraction|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331224102/http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sexual+attraction|archive-date=31 March 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Sexual attraction2">{{cite web|title=Sexual attraction| publisher=Reference.com|access-date=16 December 2011|url=http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/sexual+attraction}}</ref> Sexual attractiveness or sex appeal is an individual's ability to attract the sexual or [[erotic]] interest of another person, and is a factor in [[sexual selection]] or [[mate choice]]. The attraction can be to the [[physical attraction|physical]] or other qualities or traits of a person, or to such qualities in the context in which they appear. The attraction may be to a person's [[aesthetics]] or movements or to their voice or smell, besides other factors. The attraction may be enhanced by a person's adornments, clothing, perfume, [[long hair|hair length]] and [[hair style|style]], and anything else which can attract the sexual interest of another person. It can also be influenced by [[individual]] [[Genetics|genetic]], [[psychological]], or cultural factors, or to other, more amorphous qualities of the person. Sexual attraction is also a response to another person that depends on a combination of the person possessing the traits and also on the criteria of the person who is attracted.

Though attempts have been made to devise objective criteria of sexual attractiveness, and measure it as [[individual capital|one of several bodily forms of]] [[capital asset]] (''see [[erotic capital]]''), a person's sexual attractiveness is to a large extent a subjective measure dependent on another person's interest, perception, and [[sexual orientation]]. For example, a [[Homosexuality|gay or lesbian person]] would typically find a person of the [[Same-sex attraction|same sex]] to be more attractive than one of the other sex. A [[bisexuality|bisexual person]] would find either sex to be attractive.

In addition, there are [[Asexuality|asexual]] people, who usually do not experience sexual attraction for either sex, though they may have romantic attraction (homoromantic, biromantic or heteroromantic). [[Interpersonal attraction]] includes factors such as [[propinquity|physical or psychological similarity]], [[Intimate relationship#Intimacy|familiarity]] or possessing a preponderance of [[Koinophilia#Physical attractiveness|common or familiar features]], [[similarity (psychology)|similarity]], [[Interpersonal compatibility|complementarity]], [[reciprocal liking]], and [[reinforcement]].<ref>Miller, R., Perlman, D., and Brehm, S.S. Intimate Relationships, 4th Edition, McGrawHill Companies.{{page needed|date=December 2012}}</ref>

The ability of a person's physical and other qualities to create a sexual interest in others is the basis of their use in [[sex in advertising|advertising]], [[music video]], [[pornography]], [[Sex in film|film]], and other visual media, as well as in [[Model (person)|modeling]], [[sex work]] and other occupations.

===Legal issues===

{{Main|Family law |Divorce |Marriage |Human sexual activity#Legal issues|Sex and the law}}
Globally, laws regulate human sexuality in several ways, including criminalizing particular sexual behaviors, granting individuals the privacy or [[autonomy]] to make their own sexual decisions, protecting individuals with regard to equality and non-discrimination, recognizing and protecting other individual rights, as well as legislating matters regarding marriage and the family, and creating laws protecting individuals from violence, harassment, and persecution.<ref name=SexualityLaw1>{{cite web | last1 = Mills |first1=Elizabeth |last2=Haste |first2=Polly |last3=Wood |first3=Stephen | date = 17 June 2016 | title = 1. Issues and Debates; How is sexuality regulated in law? | work = Sexuality and Social Justice: A Toolkit | location = Brighton, UK | publisher = Institute of Development Studies, Sexuality, Poverty and Law Programme | url = http://www.spl.ids.ac.uk/sexuality-and-social-justice-toolkit/1-issues-and-debates/how-sexuality-regulated-law | access-date = 17 June 2016 }}</ref>

In the United States, there are two fundamentally different approaches, applied in different states, regarding the way the law is used to attempt to govern a person's sexuality. The "black letter" approach to law focuses on the study of pre-existing legal precedent, and attempts to offer a clear framework of rules within which lawyers and others can work.<ref name=SexualityLaw1/> In contrast, the socio-legal approach focuses more broadly on the relationship between the law and society, and offers a more contextualized view of the relationship between legal and social change.<ref name=SexualityLaw1/>

Issues regarding human sexuality and human sexual orientation have come to the forefront in Western law in the latter half of the twentieth century, as part of the [[gay liberation]] movement's encouragement of [[LGBT]] individuals to "[[come out of the closet]]" and engaging with the legal system, primarily through courts. Therefore, many issues regarding human sexuality and the law are found in the opinions of the courts.<ref name=Minnesota1>{{cite web|title=Researching Legal Issues of Sexual Orientation|url=https://library.law.umn.edu/researchguides/sexual-orientation.html|website=library.law.umn.edu|publisher=University of Minnesota|access-date=3 July 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705012329/https://library.law.umn.edu/researchguides/sexual-orientation.html|archive-date=5 July 2015}}</ref>

====Sexual privacy====
{{See also|Sexual and reproductive health and rights}}
While the issue of privacy has been useful to sexual rights claims, some scholars have criticized its usefulness, saying that this perspective is too narrow and restrictive. The law is often slow to intervene in certain forms of coercive behavior that can limit individuals' control over their own sexuality (such as [[female genital mutilation]], [[forced marriages]] or lack of access to reproductive health care). Many of these injustices are often perpetuated wholly or in part by private individuals rather than state agents, and as a result, there is an ongoing debate about the extent of state responsibility to prevent harmful practices and to investigate such practices when they do occur.<ref name=SexualityLaw1 />

State intervention with regards to sexuality also occurs, and is considered acceptable by some, in certain instances (e.g. same-sex sexual activity or [[prostitution]]).<ref name=SexualityLaw1 />

The legal systems surrounding [[prostitution]] are a topic of debate. Proponents for criminalization argue that sex work is an immoral practice that should not be tolerated, while proponents for decriminalization point out how criminalization does more harm than good. Within the feminist movement, there is also a debate over whether sex work is inherently objectifying and exploitative or whether sex workers have the agency to sell sex as a service.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.timescolonist.com/opinion/columnists/kate-heartfield-do-prostitutes-sell-themselves-or-a-service-1.877652|title=Kate Heartfield: Do prostitutes sell themselves or a service?|last=Heartfield|first=Kate|website=Times Colonist|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref>

When sex work is criminalized, sex workers do not have support from law enforcement when they fall victim to violence. In a 2003 survey of street-based sex workers in NYC, 80% said they had been threatened with or experienced violence, and many said the police were no help. 27% said they had experienced violence from police officers themselves.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://sexworkersproject.org/downloads/RevolvingDoor.pdf|title=Revolving Door|last=Thukral|first=Juhu|date=2003|website=Sex Workers Project|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040103043554/http://sexworkersproject.org/downloads/RevolvingDoor.pdf|archive-date=2004-01-03}}</ref> Different identities such as being black, transgender, or poor can result in a person being more likely to be criminally profiled by the police. For example, in New York, there is a law against "loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution", which has been nicknamed the "walking while trans" law because of how often transgender women are assumed to be sex workers and arrested for simply walking out in public.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vox.com/2019/8/2/20692327/sex-work-decriminalization-prostitution-new-york-dc|title=Sex workers' fight for decriminalization, explained|last=North|first=Anna|date=2 August 2019|website=Vox|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref>

==Religious sexual morality==
{{Main|Religion and sexuality}}
In some religions, sexual behavior is regarded as primarily spiritual. In others it is treated as primarily physical. Some hold that sexual behavior is only spiritual within certain kinds of relationships, when used for specific purposes, or when incorporated into religious ritual. In some religions there are no distinctions between the physical and the spiritual, whereas some religions view human sexuality as a way of completing the gap that exists between the spiritual and the physical.<ref>{{cite web|title=Religion and Sexuality|url=http://www.iwgonline.org/sexuality/|publisher=Interfaith Working Group|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

Many religious conservatives, especially those of [[Abrahamic religions]] and [[Christianity]] in particular, tend to view sexuality in terms of behavior (''i.e.'' homosexuality or heterosexuality is what someone does) and certain sexualities such as [[bisexuality]] tend to be ignored as a result of this.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} These conservatives tend to promote [[celibacy]] for gay people, and may also tend to believe that sexuality can be changed through [[conversion therapy]]<ref name=Tolerance111>{{cite web | title= Two Definitions and Six Interpretations | url=http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom6beli.htm | website=religioustolerance.org | access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref> or [[prayer]] to become an [[ex-gay]]. They may also see homosexuality as a form of mental illness, something that ought to be criminalised, an immoral abomination, caused by ineffective parenting, and view [[same-sex marriage]] as a threat to society.<ref name=Tolerance222>{{cite web|title=Subdividing Two Extreme Belief Systems About Homosexuality into Six Discrete Viewpoints | url=http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom7beli.htm|website=religioustolerance.org | access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

On the other hand, most religious liberals define sexuality-related labels in terms of [[sexual attraction]] and self-identification.<ref name=Tolerance111 /> They may also view same-sex activity as morally neutral and as legally acceptable as opposite-sex activity, unrelated to mental illness, genetically or environmentally caused (but not as the result of bad parenting), and fixed. They also tend to be more in favor of same-sex marriage.<ref name=Tolerance222 />

===Judaism===
According to [[Judaism]], sex between man and woman within marriage is sacred and should be enjoyed; celibacy is considered sinful.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

=== Christianity ===
Desire, including sexual desire and lust, are considered immoral and sinful.<ref name="Knust2005">{{cite book|author=Jennifer Wright Knust|title=Abandoned to Lust: Sexual Slander and Ancient Christianity|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2AUEAmdWwuUC&pg=PA1|date=9 November 2005|publisher=Columbia University Press|isbn=978-0-231-51004-2|pages=51, 67, 78}}</ref><ref name="Pagels2011">{{cite book|author=Elaine Pagels|title=Adam, Eve, and the Serpent: Sex and Politics in Early Christianity|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=btufm2vXzpEC&pg=PR17|date=5 October 2011|publisher=Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group|isbn=978-0-307-80735-9|pages=xvii-xix}}</ref><ref name="Wiesner-Hanks2000">{{cite book|last=Wiesner-Hanks|first=Merry E.|title=Christianity and Sexuality in the Early Modern World: Regulating Desire, Reforming Practice|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4v1zuZF-te0C&pg=PA1|year=2000|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-14434-6|page=10}}</ref> [[Elaine Pagels]] says, "By the beginning of the fifth century, [[Augustine of Hippo|Augustine]] had actually declared that spontaneous sexual desire is the proof of—and penalty for—universal original sin", though that this view goes against "most of his Christian predecessors".<ref name="Pagels2011" /> According to [[Jennifer Wright Knust]], [[Paul the Apostle|Paul]] framed desire a force Christians gained control over whereas non-Christians were "enslaved" by it.<ref name="Knust2005" /> Further, Paul says the bodies of Christians were members of [[Body of Christ|Christ's body]] and thus sexual desire must be eschewed.<ref name="Knust2005" />

====Roman Catholic Church====
The [[Roman Catholic Church]] teaches that sexuality is "noble and worthy"<ref>Second Vatican Council, Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the World of Today, no. 49: AAS 58 (1966), 1070</ref> but that it must be used in accordance with natural law. For this reason, all sexual activity must occur in the context of a marriage between a man and a woman, and must not be divorced from the possibility of conception. Most forms of sex without the possibility of conception are considered intrinsically disordered and sinful, such as the use of contraceptives, [[masturbation]], and homosexual acts.<ref>{{cite web|title=Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Sixth Commandment|url=https://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a6.htm|website=vatican.va|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

====Anglicanism====
The [[Anglicanism|Anglican Church]] teaches that human sexuality is a gift from a loving God designed to be between a man and a woman in a monogamous lifetime union of marriage. It also views singleness and dedicated celibacy as Christ-like. It states that people with same sex attraction are loved by God and are welcomed as full members of the [[Body of Christ]], while the Church leadership has a variety of views in regard to homosexual expression and ordination. Some expressions of sexuality are considered sinful including "promiscuity, prostitution, incest, pornography, paedophilia, predatory sexual behaviour, and sadomasochism (all of which may be heterosexual and homosexual), adultery, violence against wives, and female circumcision". The Church is concerned with pressures on young people to engage sexually and encourages abstinence.<ref>{{cite web|title=Section I.10 - Human Sexuality|url=https://www.anglicancommunion.org/resources/document-library/lambeth-conference/1998/section-i-called-to-full-humanity/section-i10-human-sexuality|website=anglicancommunion.org|access-date=4 January 2020}}</ref>

====Evangelicalism====
In matters of sexuality, several [[Evangelical]] churches promote the [[virginity pledge]] among young Evangelical Christians, who are invited to commit themselves during a public ceremony to [[sexual abstinence]] until [[Christian marriage]].<ref>John DeLamater, Rebecca F. Plante, ''Handbook of the Sociology of Sexualities'', Springer, USA, 2015, p. 351</ref> This pledge is often symbolized by a [[purity ring]].<ref>Kathleen J. Fitzgerald, Kandice L. Grossman, ''Sociology of Sexualities'', SAGE Publications, USA, 2017, p. 166</ref>

In evangelical churches, young adults and unmarried couples are encouraged to marry early in order to live a sexuality according to the will of God.<ref>Noah Manskar, [https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/religion/2014/08/12/southern-baptists-double-marriage/13894197/ Baptists encourage marrying younger], tennessean.com, USA, August 12, 2014</ref>

Although some churches are discreet on the subject, other evangelical churches in [[United States]] and [[Switzerland]] speak of a satisfying sexuality as a gift from God and a component of a harmonious [[Christian marriage]], in messages during [[Worship service (evangelicalism)|worship services]] or conferences.<ref>Timothy J. Demy Ph.D., Paul R. Shockley Ph.D., ''Evangelical America: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary American Religious Culture'', ABC-CLIO, USA, 2017, p. 371</ref><ref>Emma Green, [https://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2014/11/the-warrior-wives-of-evangelical-christianity/382365/ The Warrior Wives of Evangelical Christianity], theatlantic.com, USA, November 9, 2014</ref> Many evangelical books and websites are specialized on the subject.<ref>Kelsy Burke, ''Christians Under Covers: Evangelicals and Sexual Pleasure on the Internet'', University of California Press, USA, 2016, p. 31, 66</ref>

The [[Christianity and homosexuality#Evangelical churches|perceptions of homosexuality in the Evangelical Churches]] are varied. They range from [[Liberal Christianity|liberal]] through [[Moderate evangelical theology|moderate]] to [[Christian fundamentalism|conservative]].<ref>Jeffrey S. Siker, ''Homosexuality and Religion: An Encyclopedia'', Greenwood Publishing Group, USA, 2007, p. 112</ref><ref>William Henard, Adam Greenway, ''Evangelicals Engaging Emergent'', B&H Publishing Group, USA, 2009, p. 20</ref>

==== Eastern Orthodox Church ====
{{Empty section|date=March 2021}}

===Islam===
{{Main|Sex in Islam}}
In [[Islam]], sexual desire is considered to be a natural urge that should not be suppressed, although the concept of free sex is not accepted; these urges should be fulfilled responsibly. Marriage is considered to be a good deed; it does not hinder spiritual wayfaring. The term used for marriage within the [[Quran]] is ''nikah''{{citation needed|date=March 2021}}, which literally means sexual intercourse. Although Islamic sexuality is restrained via [[Islamic sexual jurisprudence]], it emphasizes sexual pleasure within marriage. It is acceptable for a man to have more than one wife, but he must take care of those wives physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually.<ref>{{cite book | author = Stearns, Peter N. | title = Major Patterns of Change and Continuity: World History in Brief }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}} Muslims believe that sexual intercourse is an act of worship that fulfils emotional and physical needs, and that producing children is one way in which humans can contribute to God's creation, and Islam discourages celibacy once an individual is married.

However, homosexuality is strictly forbidden in Islam, and some Muslim lawyers have suggested that gay people should be put to death.<ref>{{cite web|title=Islam: beliefs about love and sex|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/isloveandsexrev1.shtml|publisher=GCSE BBC Bitesize|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref> On the other hand, some have argued that Islam has an open and playful approach to sex<ref>[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/sex/10031095/Sex-What-Muslim-women-really-want-in-the-bedroom.html], Article titled "Sex: What Muslim women really want in the bedroom", by Shelina Janmohamed, ''The Telegraph'', 2 May 2013, accessed on 23 September 2015.</ref> so long as it is within marriage, free of lewdness, fornication and adultery.

For many Muslims, sex with reference to the Quran indicates that—bar anal intercourse and adultery—a Muslim marital home bonded by ''[[Nikah]]'' marital contract between husband and his wife (or wives) should enjoy and even indulge, within the privacy of their marital home, in limitless scope of [[heterosexual]] sexual acts within a [[monogamous]] or [[polygamous]] marriage.<ref>[https://lifeinsideislam.wordpress.com/2015/10/22/sex-in-reference-to-the-quran/ Sex in reference to Quran] by A Taha, Accessed on 22 October 2015{{unreliable source?|date=October 2015}}</ref>

===Hinduism===
[[Hinduism]] emphasizes that sex is only appropriate between husband and wife, in which satisfying sexual urges through sexual pleasure is an important duty of marriage. Any sex before marriage is considered to interfere with intellectual development, especially between birth and the age of 25, which is said to be brahmacharya and this should be avoided. [[Kama]] (sensual pleasures) is one of the four purusharthas or aims of life (dharma, artha, kama, and moksha).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/hiloveandsexrev1.shtml |title=GCSE Bitesize: Hindu views |publisher=BBC |access-date=30 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140131225017/http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/hiloveandsexrev1.shtml |archive-date=31 January 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Hindu ''[[Kama Sutra]]'' deals partially with sexual intercourse; it is not exclusively a sexual or religious work.<ref>[http://indrasinha.com/kama-sutra/ Common misconceptions about ''Kama Sutra''.] "The ''Kama Sutra'' is neither exclusively a sex manual nor, as also commonly used art, a sacred or religious work. It is certainly not a [[Tantra|tantric]] text.

In opening with a discussion of the three aims of ancient Hindu life—[[dharma]], [[artha]] and [[kama]]—[[Vātsyāyana|Vatsyayana's]] purpose is to set kama, or enjoyment of the senses, in context. Thus dharma or virtuous living is the highest aim, artha, the amassing of wealth is next, and kama is the least of three." —[[Indra Sinha]].</ref><ref>{{Cite book | last = Carroll| first = Janell| title = Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity| publisher = [[Cengage Learning]]| year = 2009| page = 7| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=5f8mQx7ULs4C&pg=PA7| isbn = 978-0-495-60274-3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book | last = Devi| first = Chandi| title = From Om to Orgasm: The Tantra Primer for Living in Bliss| publisher = [[AuthorHouse]]| year = 2008| page = 288| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=gIqhh84DGToC&pg=PA288| isbn = 978-1-4343-4960-6}}</ref>

===Sikhism===
[[Sikhism]] views [[chastity]] as important, as Sikhs believe that the divine spark of ''[[Waheguru]]'' is present inside every individual's body, therefore it is important for one to keep clean and pure. Sexual activity is limited to married couples, and extramarital sex is forbidden. Marriage is seen as a commitment to ''Waheguru'' and should be viewed as part of spiritual companionship, rather than just sexual intercourse, and [[monogamy]] is deeply emphasised in Sikhism. Any other way of living is discouraged, including celibacy and homosexuality. However, in comparison to other religions, the issue of sexuality in Sikhism is not considered one of paramount importance.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sikhism: beliefs about love and sex|url=https://ahcaf.com/sikhism-beliefs-about-love-and-sex/|publisher=GCSE BBC Bitesize|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|Human sexuality}}
{{collist|colwidth=30em|
* [[Adolescent sexuality]]
* [[Age of consent]]
* [[Antisexualism]]
* [[Gay sexual practices]]
* [[Human female sexuality]]
* [[Human male sexuality]]
* [[Human mating strategies]]
* [[Strategic pluralism]]
* [[Lesbian sexual practices]]
* [[Neuroscience and sexual orientation]]
* [[Sex magic]]
* [[Sexology]]
* [[Sex-positive movement]]
* [[Sex-positive feminism]]
* [[Sexualization]]
* [[Sociosexual orientation]]
}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite book | last = Durham | first = Meenakshi G. | title = TechnoSex: technologies of the body, mediated corporealities, and the quest for the sexual self | publisher = University of Michigan Press | location = Ann Arbor | year = 2012 | url = http://clas.uiowa.edu/gwss/news-events/durham-and-waters-freyer-awarded-ahi-grants-2012-13 | author-link1 = Meenakshi Gigi Durham }}
*{{cite journal |last1=Ember |first1=Carol R. |last2=Escobar |first2=Milagro |last3=Rossen |first3=Noah |editor=C. R. Ember |editor-link=Carol_R._Ember |author-link1=Carol R. Ember |title=Sexuality |url=http://hraf.yale.edu/ehc/summaries/sexuality |website=HRAF: Explaining Human Culture |access-date=28 May 2020 |language=en |date=26 September 2019 |quote=Sexual reproduction is part of the biological nature of humans, so it may be surprising how much sexuality varies cross-culturally. Indeed, societies vary considerably in the degree to which they encourage, discourage, or even appear to fear heterosexual sex at different life stages and in varying circumstances.}}
* Gregersen, E. (1982). ''Sexual Practices: The Story of Human Sexuality''. New York: F. Watts.
* Lyons, Andrew P. & Harriet D., eds. ''Sexualities in Anthropology: a reader''. Malden, MA: Wiley-Blackwell, 2011 {{ISBN|1-4051-9054-X}}
* Richardson, Niall; Smith, Clarissa & Werndly, Angela (2013) ''Studying Sexualities: Theories, Representations, Cultures''. London: Palgrave Macmillan
* [[Alan Soble|Soble, Alan]] (ed.). ''Sex from Plato to Paglia'': A Philosophical Encyclopedia, 2 volumes. Greenwood Press, 2006.
* {{cite journal | last1 = Wood | first1 = H. Sex | year = 2003 | title = "Sex Cells." (news report) | journal = Nature Reviews Neuroscience | volume = 4 | page = 88 | doi = 10.1038/nrn1044 | s2cid = 35928534 | doi-access = free }} Lay summary of primary source appearing from the University of Calgary, in ''Science,'' on prolactin release during sexual activity in mice, and its possible relationship to stroke therapy.

== External links ==
* "[http://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1123&context=childrenatrisk Examining the Relationship Between Media Use and Aggression, Sexuality, and Body Image]," Journal of Applied Research on Children: Informing Policy for Children at Risk: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 3.
* [http://www.sexology.it/glossary-of-sexology.html Glossary of clinical sexology – Glossario di sessuologia clinica]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071010100542/http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/IES/index.html International Encyclopedia of Sexuality] [https://web.archive.org/web/20060212144108/http://www2.rz.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/IES/BEGIN.HTM full text]
* Janssen, D.F., [https://web.archive.org/web/20060220110820/http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/GUS/INDEXATLAS.HTM ''Growing Up Sexually. Volume I. World Reference Atlas''] [full text]
* Masters, William H., Virginia E. Johnson, and Robert C. Kolodny. ''Crisis: Heterosexual Behavior in the Age of AIDS''. First ed. New York: Grove Press, 1988. ix, 243 p. {{ISBN|0-8021-1049-5}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120205191708/http://nsrc.sfsu.edu/ National Sexuality Resource Center]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160416215051/http://data360.org/pdf/20070416064139.Global%20Sex%20Survey.pdf Durex Global Sex Survey 2005] at [https://web.archive.org/web/20160510100720/http://www.data360.org/index.aspx data360.org]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060213230309/http://db.jhuccp.org/popinform/basic.html POPLINE] is a searchable database of the world's [[reproductive health]] [[literature]].
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080521085828/http://www.kinseyinstitute.org/ccies/ The Continuum Complete International Encyclopedia of Sexuality at the Kinsey Institute]
* [http://www.sexualityinstitute.org/ The Sexuality and Rights Institute]
* [http://www.asiasrc.org/ The South and Southeast Asia Resource Centre on Sexuality]
* [http://www.educatedearth.net/video.php?id=3940 MRI Video of Human Copulation]
* {{Cite episode|airdate=13 February 2006 |title=Naked Science: What's Sexy? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTfBQtVFhXo |series-no=2 |number=1 |series=Naked Science | series-link=Naked Science |network=National Geographic Channel }}

{{Sex (biology)}}
{{Human sexuality and sexology}}
{{Human sexuality}}
{{Sexual ethics}}
{{Sexual urban legends}}




[[Category:Human sexuality| ]]

Human sexuality

2021-06-19T23:00:13Z

Quantumhusky:

{{imported|Wikipedia}}

{{about|human sexual anatomy, sexuality and perceptions|information specifically about sexual activities|Human sexual activity}}
{{Redirect|Sexuality|sexual behavior among other animals|Animal sexual behaviour|other uses|Sexuality (disambiguation)}}
{{For|the book|Human Sexuality (book)}}
{{short description|The way people experience and express themselves sexually}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2019}}
{{Close relationships |emotions}}
'''Human [[sexuality]]''' is the way people experience and express themselves [[Human sexual activity|sexually]].<ref name="Cavendish">{{cite book|title=Sex and Society, Volume 2|publisher=[[Marshall Cavendish]]|isbn=978-0-7614-7907-9|year=2010|page=384|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YtsxeWE7VD0C&pg=PA384|quote=The term human sexuality broadly refers to how people experience and express themselves as sexual beings.}}</ref><ref name="Ferrante">{{cite book|author=Joan Ferrante|title=Sociology: A Global Perspective|publisher=[[Cengage Learning]]|isbn=978-1-285-74646-3|year=2014|page=207|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Au4bCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA207|quote=Sexuality encompasses all the ways people experience and express themselves as sexual beings.}}</ref> This involves [[biological]], [[erotic]], [[Physical intimacy|physical]], [[Emotional intimacy|emotional]], [[social]], or [[Spirituality|spiritual]] feelings and behaviors.<ref name="S. Greenberg">{{cite book|first1=Jerrold S. |last1=Greenberg|first2=Clint E. |last2=Bruess |first3=Sara B. |last3=Oswalt|title=Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality|publisher=[[Jones & Bartlett Publishers]]|isbn=978-1-284-08154-1|year=2016|pages=4–10|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8iarCwAAQBAJ&pg=PA4|quote=Human sexuality is a part of your total personality. It involves the interrelationship of biological, psychological, and sociocultural dimensions. [...] It is the total of our physical, emotional, and spiritual responses, thoughts, and feelings.}}</ref><ref name="Bolin">{{cite book|first1=Anne |last1=Bolin |first2=Patricia |last2=Whelehan|title=Human Sexuality: Biological, Psychological, and Cultural Perspectives|publisher=[[Taylor & Francis]]|isbn=978-0-7890-2671-2|year=2009|pages=32–42|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qrPHYok19v8C&pg=PA32}}</ref> Because it is a broad term, which has varied with historical contexts over time, it lacks a precise definition.<ref name="Bolin"/> The biological and physical aspects of sexuality largely concern the [[Human reproduction|human reproductive functions]], including the [[human sexual response cycle]].<ref name="S. Greenberg"/><ref name="Bolin"/>

Someone's [[sexual orientation]] is their pattern of sexual interest in the opposite or same sex.<ref name="AmPsycholAssn-whatis">{{cite web |title=Sexual orientation, homosexuality and bisexuality |publisher=[[American Psychological Association]] |access-date=10 August 2013 |url=http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx |archive-date=8 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130808032050/http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx}}</ref> Physical and emotional aspects of sexuality include bonds between individuals that are expressed through profound feelings or physical manifestations of [[Romance (love)|love]], trust, and care. Social aspects deal with the effects of human [[society]] on one's sexuality, while spirituality concerns an individual's spiritual connection with others. Sexuality also affects and is affected by cultural, political, legal, philosophical, [[morality|moral]], [[ethical]], and religious aspects of life.<ref name="S. Greenberg"/><ref name="Bolin"/>

Interest in sexual activity typically increases when an individual reaches [[puberty]].<ref>Carlson, Neil R. and C. Donald Heth. "Psychology: the Science of Behaviour." 4th Edition. Toronto: Pearson Canada Inc., 2007. 684.</ref> Although no single theory on the cause of sexual orientation has yet gained widespread support, there is considerably more evidence supporting nonsocial causes of sexual orientation than social ones, especially for males. Hypothesized social causes are supported by only weak evidence, distorted by numerous confounding factors.<ref name=Bailey16>{{cite journal|last1=Bailey|first1=J. Michael|last2=Vasey|first2=Paul|last3=Diamond|first3=Lisa|last4=Breedlove|first4=S. Marc|last5=Vilain|first5=Eric|last6=Epprecht|first6=Marc|title=Sexual Orientation, Controversy, and Science|journal=Psychological Science in the Public Interest|date=2016|volume=17|issue=2|pages=45–101|doi=10.1177/1529100616637616|pmid=27113562|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301639075|doi-access=free}}</ref> This is [[further]] supported by cross-cultural evidence, because cultures that are very tolerant of homosexuality do not have significantly higher rates of it.<ref name=LeVay>{{cite book |last=LeVay |first=Simon |date=2017 |title=Gay, Straight, and the Reason Why: The Science of Sexual Orientation |page=19 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HmQFFfa03nkC |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=9780199752966 }}</ref><ref name=Balthazart>{{cite book |last=Balthazart |first=Jacques |date=2012 |title=The Biology of Homosexuality |pages=13–14 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3fjGjlcVINkC |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=9780199838820 }}</ref>

Evolutionary perspectives on human coupling, reproduction and [[reproduction strategies]], and [[social learning theory]] provide further views of sexuality.<ref>''[https://www.researchgate.net/profile/David_Buss/publication/14715297_Sexual_Strategies_Theory_An_Evolutionary_Perspective_on_Human_Mating/links/0deec5181791b73d35000000/Sexual-Strategies-Theory-An-Evolutionary-Perspective-on-Human-Mating.pdf Sexual Strategies Theory: An Evolutionary Perspective on Human Mating]'' by David M. Buss and David P. Schmitt</ref> Sociocultural aspects of sexuality include [[History of human sexuality|historical developments]] and [[Religion and sexuality|religious beliefs]]. Some cultures have been described as [[sexually repressive]]. The study of sexuality also includes [[Individual|human identity]] within social groups, [[Sexually transmitted diseases|sexually transmitted infections]] (STIs/STDs), and [[birth control]] methods.

{{TOC limit|3}}

==Development==
===Sexual orientation===
{{Main|Sexual orientation}}

There is considerably more evidence supporting innate causes of sexual orientation than learned ones, especially for males. This evidence includes the cross-cultural correlation of homosexuality and childhood [[gender nonconformity]], moderate genetic influences found in [[twin studies]], evidence for prenatal hormonal effects on brain organization, the fraternal birth order effect, and the finding that in rare cases where infant males were raised as girls due to physical deformity, they nevertheless turned out attracted to females. Hypothesized social causes are supported by only weak evidence, distorted by numerous confounding factors.<ref name=Bailey16 />

Cross-cultural evidence also leans more toward non-social causes. Cultures that are very tolerant of homosexuality do not have significantly higher rates of it. Homosexual behavior is relatively common among boys in British single-sex boarding schools, but adult Britons who attended such schools are no more likely to engage in homosexual behavior than those who did not. In an extreme case, the [[Sambia people]] ritually require their boys to engage in homosexual behavior during adolescence before they have any access to females, yet most of these boys become heterosexual.<ref name=LeVay/><ref name=Balthazart/>

It is not fully understood why genes causing homosexuality persist in the gene pool. One hypothesis involves [[kin selection]], suggesting that homosexuals invest heavily enough in their relatives to offset the cost of not reproducing as much directly. This has not been supported by studies in Western cultures, but several studies in [[Samoa]] have found some support for this hypothesis. Another hypothesis involves [[Sexual conflict|sexually antagonistic]] genes, which cause homosexuality when expressed in males but increase reproduction when expressed in females. Studies in both Western and non-Western cultures have found support for this hypothesis.<ref name=Bailey16/><ref name=BussCh5>{{cite book |last=Buss |first=David |date=2019 |title=Evolutionary Psychology: The New Science of the Mind |chapter=Men's Long-Term Mating Strategies|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Sn6JDwAAQBAJ |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9780429590061 }}</ref>

===Gender differences===
{{see also|Sex differences in psychology#Sexual behavior}}

Psychological theories exist regarding the development and expression of gender differences in human sexuality. A number of them (including [[neo-analytic]] theories, [[sociobiological]] theories, [[social learning theory]], [[social role theory]], and [[script theory]]) agree in predicting that men should be more approving of casual sex (sex happening outside a stable, committed relationship such as [[marriage]]) and should also be more [[promiscuous]] (have a higher number of sexual partners) than women. These theories are mostly consistent with observed differences in males' and females' attitudes toward casual sex before marriage in the United States. Other aspects of human sexuality, such as sexual satisfaction, incidence of [[oral sex]], and attitudes toward [[homosexuality]] and [[masturbation]], show little to no observed difference between males and females. Observed gender differences regarding the number of sexual partners are modest, with males tending to have slightly more than females.<ref name="Oliver & Hyde">{{cite book |last1=Oliver |first1=Mary Beth |last2=Hyde |first2=Janet S. |editor1-last=Baumeister |editor1-first=Roy F. |title=Social Psychology and Human Sexuality: Essential Readings |date=2001 |publisher=Psychology Press |isbn=978-1-84169-019-3 |pages=29–43 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2qsKNaqIsuUC&pg=PA29 |chapter=Gender Differences in Sexuality: A Meta-Analysis}}</ref>

==Biological and physiological aspects==
{{main|Human reproductive system}}
Like other [[mammal]]s, humans are primarily grouped into either the [[male]] or [[female]] sex,<ref name="Leonard2010">{{cite book | last =Leonard | first =Janet | author-link =Janet L. Leonard | title =The Evolution of Primary Sexual Characters in Animals | publisher =Oxford University Press | date =18 June 2010 | page =552 | url ={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=PgtXj5R6OfMC }} | isbn =978-0-19-532555-3 }}</ref> with a small proportion (around 1% or 0.018%<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Sax|first=Leonard|date=August 2002|title=How common is intersex? a response to Anne Fausto-Sterling|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12476264/|journal=Journal of Sex Research|volume=39|issue=3|pages=174–178|doi=10.1080/00224490209552139|issn=0022-4499|pmid=12476264|s2cid=33795209}}</ref>) of [[intersex]] individuals, for whom sexual classification may not be as clear.<ref>{{cite book | author = Fausto-Sterling, Anne | author-link = Anne Fausto-Sterling | year = 2000 | title = Sexing the Body: Gender Politics and the Construction of Sexuality | location = New York | publisher = Basic Books | isbn = 978-0-465-07713-7 |page=51 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=-976qhsz7A4C}}</ref>

The biological aspects of humans' sexuality deal with the reproductive system, the [[human sexual response cycle|sexual response cycle]], and the factors that affect these aspects. They also deal with the influence of biological factors on other aspects of sexuality, such as organic and neurological responses,<ref>Ellen Ross, Rayna Rapp Sex and Society: A Research Note from Social [[History]] and Anthropology Comparative Studies in Society and History, Vol. 23, No. 1 (Jan. 1981), pp. 51–72</ref> heredity, hormonal issues, gender issues, and sexual dysfunction.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007">{{Cite book|last=Rathus|first=Spencer A. |title=Human sexuality in a world of diversity |date=2008 |publisher=Pearson/A & B |author2=Jeffrey S. Nevid |author3=Lois Fichner-Rathus |isbn=978-0-205-53291-9 |edition=7th |location=Boston |oclc=123539338}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

===Physical anatomy and reproduction===
Males and females are anatomically similar; this extends to some degree to the [[development of the reproductive system]]. As adults, they have different reproductive mechanisms that enable them to perform sexual acts and to reproduce. Men and women react to sexual stimuli in a similar fashion with minor differences. Women have a monthly reproductive cycle, whereas the male sperm production cycle is more continuous.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite book|title=Human Sexuality Today|author=King, Bruce M.|year=2013|isbn=978-0-13-604245-7}}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|isbn = 0791441334|title = Perspectives on Human Sexuality|last1 = Bolin|first1 = Anne|last2 = Whelehan|first2 = Patricia|date = January 1999}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|isbn = 978-1285454313|title = Life-Span Human Development|last1 = Sigelman|first1 = Carol K.|last2 = Rider|first2 = Elizabeth A.|date = 26 February 2014}}</ref>

====Brain====
The [[hypothalamus]] is the most important part of the brain for sexual functioning. This is a small area at the base of the brain consisting of several groups of nerve cell bodies that receives input from the limbic system. Studies have shown that within lab animals, the destruction of certain areas of the hypothalamus causes the elimination of sexual behavior.<ref name="ReferenceA" /> The hypothalamus is important because of its relationship to the [[pituitary gland]], which lies beneath it. The pituitary gland secretes hormones that are produced in the hypothalamus and itself. The four important sexual hormones are [[oxytocin]], [[prolactin]], [[follicle-stimulating hormone]], and [[luteinizing hormone]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the "[[love]] hormone,"<ref name="Sigelman452" /> is released in both sexes during sexual intercourse when an [[orgasm]] is achieved.<ref name="Hornstein" /> Oxytocin has been suggested as critical to the thoughts and behaviors required to maintain close relationships.<ref name="Sigelman452">{{cite book| last1 = Sigelman |first1=Carol |last2= Rider |first2=Elizabeth | year = 2011 | title =Life-Span Human Development| location = Boston| publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | page = 452 |isbn = 978-1-111-34273-9| url =https://books.google.com/books?id=8smBuRecmDsC&pg=PT480}}</ref><ref name="Hornstein">{{cite book| last1 = Hornstein |first1=Theresa |last2=Schwerin |first2=Jeri | year = 2012 | title = Biology of Women | location = Boston | publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | page = 205 | isbn = 978-1-285-40102-7| url =https://books.google.com/books?id=ibgKAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA205}}</ref>{{verification needed|date=February 2016}} The hormone is also released in women when they give birth or are breastfeeding.<ref name="Smith">{{cite book | author = Smith, Linda J. | year = 2010 | title = Impact of Birthing Practices on Breastfeeding | location = Burlington, MA | publisher = [[Jones & Bartlett Learning|Jones & Bartlett]] | page = 158 | isbn = 978-0-7637-6374-9 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=vUncnT6o4k4C&pg=PA158}}</ref> Both prolactin and oxytocin stimulate milk production in women.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is responsible for ovulation in women, which acts by triggering egg maturity; in men it stimulates sperm production.<ref>{{cite book| last1 = Hyde|first1=Janet|author-link1=Janet Shibley Hyde|last2=DeLamater|first2=John|author-link2=John DeLamater| last3=Byers|first3=Sandra | year = 2013 | title=Understanding Human Sexuality | edition = 5th Canadian | location = Whitby, ON, CAN | publisher = McGraw-Hill Ryerson | isbn=978-0-07-032972-0 | pages=100, 102ff }}</ref> Luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation, which is the release of a mature egg.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

====Male anatomy and reproductive system====
{{main|Human male reproductive system}}

Males also have both internal and external genitalia that are responsible for procreation and sexual intercourse. Production of spermatozoa (sperm) is also cyclic, but unlike the female ovulation cycle, the sperm production cycle is constantly producing millions of sperm daily.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

=====External male anatomy=====

The male genitalia are the penis and the scrotum. The penis provides a passageway for sperm and urine. An average-sized flaccid penis is about {{convert|3+3/4|inch|cm|abbr=out}} in length and {{convert|1+1/5|in|cm|abbr=out}} in diameter. When erect, the average penis is between {{convert|4+1/2|in|cm|abbr=out}} to {{convert|6|in|cm|abbr=out}} in length and {{convert|1+1/2|in|cm|abbr=out}} in diameter. The penis's internal structures consist of the [[shaft (penis)|shaft]], [[glans]], and the [[root]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The shaft of the penis consists of three cylindrical bodies of spongy tissue filled with blood vessels along its length. Two of these bodies lie side by side in the upper portion of the penis called corpora cavernosa. The third, called the [[corpus spongiosum]], is a tube that lies centrally beneath the others and expands at the end to form the tip of the penis (glans).<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://www.innerbody.com/image/repmov.html |title=Male Reproductive System – Explore Anatomy with Detailed Pictures |publisher=Innerbody.com |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref>

The raised rim at the border of the shaft and glans is called the corona. The urethra runs through the shaft, providing an exit for sperm and urine. The root consists of the expanded ends of the cavernous bodies, which fan out to form the crura and attach to the pubic bone and the expanded end of the spongy body (bulb). The root is surrounded by two muscles: the [[bulbocavernosus muscle]] and the [[ischiocavernosus muscle]]. These aid urination and ejaculation. The penis has a [[foreskin]] that typically covers the glans; this is sometimes removed by [[circumcision]] for medical, religious or cultural reasons.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} In the scrotum, the testicles are held away from the body, one possible reason for this is so sperm can be produced in an environment slightly lower than normal body temperature.<ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Drew|first1=Liam|title=The Scrotum Is Nuts|url=http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/science/2013/07/are_testicles_external_for_cooling_galloping_display_or_something_else.1.html|access-date=3 July 2015|magazine=[[Slate (magazine)|Slate]]|date=8 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Madaras|first1=Lynda Madaras with Area|title=The what's happening to my body? book for boys|date=2008|publisher=Newmarket|location=New York|isbn=978-1-55704-765-6|edition=Rev.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zC1g5gdJc_kC&pg=PA33}}</ref>

=====Internal male anatomy=====

Male internal reproductive structures are the testicles, the duct system, the prostate and seminal vesicles, and the [[bulbourethral gland|Cowper's gland]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The testicles (male gonads), are where sperm and male hormones are produced. Millions of sperm are produced daily in several hundred seminiferous tubules. Cells called the [[Leydig cell]]s lie between the tubules; these produce hormones called androgens; these consist of [[testosterone]] and [[inhibin]]. The testicles are held by the spermatic cord, which is a tubelike structure containing blood vessels, nerves, the vas deferens, and a muscle that helps to raise and lower the testicles in response to temperature changes and sexual arousal, in which the testicles are drawn closer to the body.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Sperm gets transported through a four-part duct system. The first part of this system is the [[epididymis]]. The testicles converge to form the [[seminiferous tubules]], coiled tubes at the top and back of each testicle. The second part of the duct system is the [[vas deferens]], a muscular tube that begins at the lower end of the epididymis.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The vas deferens passes upward along the side of the testicles to become part of the spermatic cord.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> The expanded end is the ampulla, which stores sperm before ejaculation. The third part of the duct system is the ejaculatory ducts, which are {{convert|1|in|cm|abbr=out|adj=on}}-long paired tubes that pass through the prostate gland, where semen is produced.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The prostate gland is a solid, chestnut-shaped organ that surrounds the first part of the urethra, which carries urine and semen.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}<ref name="ReferenceB"/> Similar to the female G-spot, the prostate provides sexual stimulation and can lead to [[orgasm]] through [[anal sex]].<ref name="Rosenthal">{{cite book |first=Martha |last= Rosenthal| title = Human Sexuality: From Cells to Society | publisher =[[Cengage Learning]]|year = 2012|pages=133–135| isbn = 978-0-618-75571-4|url =https://books.google.com/books?id=d58z5hgQ2gsC&pg=PT153}}</ref>

The prostate gland and the seminal vesicles produce seminal fluid that is mixed with sperm to create semen.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The prostate gland lies under the bladder and in front of the rectum. It consists of two [[Portal:Main|main]] zones: the inner zone that produces secretions to keep the lining of the male urethra moist and the outer zone that produces seminal fluids to facilitate the passage of semen.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> The seminal vesicles secrete fructose for sperm activation and mobilization, prostaglandins to cause uterine contractions that aid movement through the uterus, and bases that help neutralize the acidity of the vagina. The Cowper's glands, or bulbourethral glands, are two pea-sized structures beneath the prostate.

====Female anatomy and reproductive system====
{{Main|Human female reproductive system}}

=====External female anatomy=====

The mons veneris, also known as the [[Mons pubis|Mound of Venus]], is a soft layer of fatty tissue overlaying the pubic bone.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Hyde |last2=DeLamater |last3=Byers|title=Understanding Human Sexuality 5th Canadian ed.|year=2012 |isbn=978-0-07-032972-0|page=78}}</ref> Following puberty, this area grows in size. It has many nerve endings and is sensitive to stimulation.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The labia minora and labia majora are collectively known as the lips. The labia majora are two elongated folds of skin extending from the mons to the perineum. Its outer surface becomes covered with hair after puberty. In between the labia majora are the labia minora, two hairless folds of skin that meet above the clitoris to form the clitoral hood, which is highly sensitive to touch. The labia minora become engorged with blood during sexual stimulation, causing them to swell and turn red.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The labia minora are composed of connective tissues that are richly supplied with blood vessels which cause a pinkish appearance. Near the anus, the labia minora merge with the labia majora.<ref name="innerbody.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.innerbody.com/image/repfov.html |title=Female Reproductive System – Anatomy Pictures and Information |publisher=Innerbody.com |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref> In a sexually unstimulated state, the labia minora protects the vaginal and urethral opening by covering them.<ref>''Human Reproductive Biology'' by Mark M. Jones (2012), p. 63.</ref> At the base of the labia minora are the [[Bartholin's glands]], which add a few drops of an alkaline fluid to the vagina via ducts; this fluid helps to counteract the acidity of the outer vagina since sperm cannot live in an acidic environment.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The clitoris is developed from the same embryonic tissue as the penis; it or its [[Clitoral glans|glans]] alone consists of as many (or more in some cases) nerve endings as the human penis or glans penis, making it extremely sensitive to touch.<ref name="Francoeur">{{cite book |last=Francoeur |first=Robert T. |year=2000 |title=The Complete Dictionary of Sexology |publisher=The Continuum Publishing Company |page=[https://archive.org/details/completedictiona0000unse_w1u0/page/180 180] |isbn=978-0-8264-0672-9 |url=https://archive.org/details/completedictiona0000unse_w1u0/page/180 }}</ref><ref name="Carroll">{{cite book | title =Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity | publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | year = 2009 | page = 118 | access-date =23 June 2012 | url = {{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=5f8mQx7ULs4C |}} |isbn =978-0-495-60274-3 | first = Janell L. | last = Carroll}}</ref><ref name="Can't feel">{{cite web | title = I'm a woman who cannot feel pleasurable sensations during intercourse | publisher = [[Go Ask Alice!]] | date = 8 October 2004| access-date = 13 September 2012|url=http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/im-woman-who-cannot-feel-pleasurable-sensations-during-intercourse |archive-date= 7 January 2011|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110107184029/http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/3229.html}}</ref> The clitoral glans, which is a small, elongated erectile structure, has only one known function—sexual sensations. It is the female's most sensitive [[erogenous zone]] and the [[Portal:Main|main]] source of orgasm in women.<ref name="Clitoris">{{cite web|title=I Want a Better Orgasm!|website=[[WebMD]]|access-date=18 August 2011|url=http://www.webmd.com/sex/want-better-orgasms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113132443/http://www.webmd.com/sex/want-better-orgasms|archive-date=13 January 2009}}</ref><ref name="Flaherty">{{cite book|first1=Joseph A.|last1=Flaherty|first2=John Marcell|last2=Davis|first3=Philip G.|last3=Janicak|title=Psychiatry: Diagnosis & therapy. A Lange clinical manual|isbn=978-0-8385-1267-8|publisher=Appleton & Lange (Original from Northwestern University)|year=1993|page=[https://archive.org/details/psychiatrydiagno00flah/page/217 217]|url=https://archive.org/details/psychiatrydiagno00flah/page/217|quote=The amount of time of sexual arousal needed to reach orgasm is variable—and usually much longer—in women than in men; thus, only 20–30% of women attain a coital climax. b. Many women (70–80%) require manual clitoral stimulation...}}</ref><ref name="Kenneth Mah">{{cite journal | first1 = Kenneth | last1 = Mah | first2 = Yitzchak M | last2 = Binik | title = The nature of human orgasm: a critical review of major trends | journal = [[Clinical Psychology Review]] | volume = 21 | issue = 6 | pages = 823–856 |date=7 January 2001 | pmid = 11497209| doi = 10.1016/S0272-7358(00)00069-6 | quote=Women rated clitoral stimulation as at least somewhat more important than vaginal stimulation in achieving orgasm; only about 20% indicated that they did not require additional clitoral stimulation during intercourse.}}</ref><ref name="Kammerer-Doak">{{cite journal | first1 = Dorothy | last1 = Kammerer-Doak | first2 = Rebecca G. | last2 = Rogers | title = Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction | journal = Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America | volume = 35 | issue = 2 | pages = 169–183 |date=June 2008 | pmid = 18486835 | doi = 10.1016/j.ogc.2008.03.006 | quote=Most women report the inability to achieve orgasm with vaginal intercourse and require direct clitoral stimulation ... About 20% have coital climaxes...}}</ref> Thick secretions called [[smegma]] collect around the clitoris.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The vaginal opening and the urethral opening are only visible when the labia minora are parted. These openings have many nerve endings that make them sensitive to touch. They are surrounded by a ring of sphincter muscles called the [[bulbocavernosus muscle]]. Underneath this muscle and on opposite sides of the vaginal opening are the vestibular bulbs, which help the vagina grip the penis by swelling with blood during arousal. Within the vaginal opening is the [[hymen]], a thin membrane that partially covers the opening in many [[Virginity|virgins]]. Rupture of the hymen has been historically considered the loss of one's virginity, though, by modern standards, loss of virginity is considered to be the first sexual intercourse. The hymen can be ruptured by activities other than sexual intercourse. The urethral opening connects to the bladder with the urethra; it expels urine from the bladder. This is located below the clitoris and above the vaginal opening.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The [[breast]]s are the subcutaneous tissues on the front thorax of the female body.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Though they are not technically part of a woman's sexual anatomy, they do have roles in both sexual pleasure and reproduction.<ref name=Lehmiller>{{cite book |last=Lehmiller |first=Justin |date=2018 |title=The Psychology of Human Sexuality |edition=Second |pages=74–75 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JXJGDwAAQBAJ |publisher=John Wiley & Sons Ltd |isbn=9781119164739 }}</ref> Breasts are modified sweat glands made up of fibrous tissues and fat that provide support and contain nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Their [[Portal:Main|main]] purpose is to provide milk to a developing infant. Breasts develop during puberty in response to an increase in estrogen. Each adult breast consists of 15 to 20 milk-producing [[mammary glands]], irregularly shaped lobes that include [[alveolar gland]]s and a lactiferous duct leading to the nipple. The lobes are separated by dense connective tissues that support the glands and attach them to the tissues on the underlying pectoral muscles.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Other connective tissue, which forms dense strands called suspensory ligaments, extends inward from the skin of the breast to the pectoral tissue to support the weight of the breast.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Heredity and the quantity of fatty tissue determine the size of the breasts.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Men typically find female breasts attractive<ref>{{cite book |last=Buss |first=David |date=2019 |title=Evolutionary Psychology: The New Science of the Mind |edition=Sixth |chapter=Men's Long-Term Mating Strategies|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Sn6JDwAAQBAJ |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9780429590061 }}</ref> and this holds true for a variety of cultures.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Jan Havlíček |author2=Vít Třebický |author3=Jaroslava Varella Valentova |author4=Karel Kleisner |author5=Robert Mbe Akoko |author6=Jitka Fialová |author7=Rosina Jash |author8=Tomáš Kočnar |author9=Kamila Janaina Pereira |author10=Zuzana Štěrbová |author11=Marco Antonio Correa Varella |author12=Jana Vokurková |author13=Ernest Vunan |author14=S Craig Roberts |title=Men's preferences for women's breast size and shape in four cultures |journal=Evolution and Human Behavior |date=2017|volume=38 |issue=2 |pages=217–226 |doi=10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2016.10.002 |hdl=1893/24421 |hdl-access=free}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |author=Barnaby J Dixson |author2=Paul L Vasey |author3=Katayo Sagata |author4=Nokuthaba Sibanda |author5=Wayne L Linklater |author6=Alan F Dixson |title=Men's preferences for women's breast morphology in New Zealand, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea |journal=Archives of Sexual Behavior |date=2011 |volume=40 |issue=6 |pages=1271–1279 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/46404564 |doi=10.1007/s10508-010-9680-6|pmid=20862533 |s2cid=34125295}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|author=Frank W. Marlowe |title=Mate preferences among Hadza hunter-gatherers|journal=Human Nature |date=2004|volume=15|issue=4|pages=365–376|url=https://www.unl.edu/rhames/courses/readings/Marlowe-hadza-mate-selection-criteria.pdf|doi=10.1007/s12110-004-1014-8|pmid=26189412|s2cid=9584357}}</ref> In women, [[stimulation of nipples|stimulation of the nipple]] seems to result in activation of the brain's genital sensory cortex (the same region of the brain activated by stimulation of the clitoris, vagina, and cervix).<ref>{{cite journal |author=Barry R Komisaruk |author2=Nan Wise |author3=Eleni Frangos |author4=Wen-Ching Liu |author5=Kachina Allen |author6=Stuart Brody |title=Women's clitoris, vagina, and cervix mapped on the sensory cortex: fMRI evidence|journal=The Journal of Sexual Medicine |date=2011|volume=8|issue=10|pages=2822–2830|pmc=3186818|pmid=21797981|doi=10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02388.x}}</ref> This may be why many women find nipple stimulation arousing and why some women are able to orgasm by nipple stimulation alone.<ref name=Lehmiller/>

=====Internal female anatomy=====
{{main|Female reproductive system}}

The female internal reproductive organs are the [[vagina]], [[uterus]], [[Fallopian tube]]s, and [[ovary|ovaries]]. The vagina is a sheath-like canal that extends from the vulva to the cervix. It receives the penis during intercourse and serves as a depository for sperm. The vagina is also the [[birth canal]]; it can expand to {{convert|10|cm|inch|abbr=on}} during labor and delivery. The vagina is located between the [[bladder]] and the [[rectum]]. The vagina is normally collapsed, but during [[sexual arousal]] it opens, lengthens, and produces lubrication to allow the insertion of the penis. The vagina has three layered walls; it is a self-cleaning organ with natural bacteria that suppress the production of yeast.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The [[G-spot]], named after the [[Ernst Gräfenberg]] who first reported it in 1950, may be located in the front wall of the vagina and may cause orgasms. This area may vary in size and location between women; in some it may be absent. Various researchers dispute its structure or existence, or regard it as an extension of the clitoris.<ref name=Hines>{{cite journal |author=Hines T |date=August 2001 |title=The G-Spot: A modern gynecologic myth |journal=Am J Obstet Gynecol |volume=185 |issue=2 |pages=359–362 | doi=10.1067/mob.2001.115995 |pmid=11518892|s2cid=32381437 |url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/59ac3e423b824c8b64b2359c10a496730cd2a656 }}</ref><ref name="Balon, Segraves">{{cite book|first1=Richard |last1=Balon |first2=Robert Taylor |last2=Segraves|title=Clinical Manual of Sexual Disorders |publisher= [[American Psychiatric Association|American Psychiatric Pub]]|year=2009|access-date=24 January 2014|page=258|isbn=978-1-58562-905-3|url={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=YuP3Hb0TMLQC |}} }}</ref><ref name="Kilchevsky">{{cite journal|title=Is the Female G-Spot Truly a Distinct Anatomic Entity?|journal=[[The Journal of Sexual Medicine]]|volume= 9|date=January 2012 |pmid=22240236|doi=10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02623.x|lay-url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/19/g-spot-does-not-exist_n_1215822.html|lay-source=[[The Huffington Post]]|lay-date=19 January 2012 |last1=Kilchevsky |first1=A |last2=Vardi |first2=Y |last3=Lowenstein |first3=L |last4=Gruenwald |first4=I |issue=3|pages=719–726}}</ref>

The uterus or womb is a hollow, muscular organ where a fertilized egg (ovum) will implant itself and grow into a fetus.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The uterus lies in the pelvic cavity between the bladder and the [[bowel]], and above the vagina. It is usually positioned in a 90-degree angle tilting forward, although in about 20% of women it tilts backwards.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> The uterus has three layers; the innermost layer is the [[endometrium]], where the egg is implanted. During ovulation, this thickens for implantation. If implantation does not occur, it is sloughed off during menstruation. The cervix is the narrow end of the uterus. The broad part of the uterus is the [[fundus (uterus)|fundus]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

During [[ovulation]], the ovum travels down the Fallopian tubes to the uterus. These extend about {{convert|4|inch|cm|spell=in}} from both sides of the uterus. Finger-like projections at the ends of the tubes brush the ovaries and receive the ovum once it is released. The ovum then travels for three to four days to the uterus.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} After sexual intercourse, sperm swim up this funnel from the uterus. The lining of the tube and its secretions sustain the egg and the sperm, encouraging [[fertilization]] and nourishing the ovum until it reaches the uterus. If the ovum divides after fertilization, [[identical twins]] are produced. If separate eggs are fertilized by different sperm, the mother gives birth to non-identical or [[fraternal twins]].<ref name="innerbody.com"/>

The ovaries (female gonads), develop from the same embryonic tissue as the [[testicles]]. The ovaries are suspended by ligaments and are the source where ova are stored and developed before ovulation. The ovaries also produce female hormones [[progesterone]] and [[estrogen]]. Within the ovaries, each ovum is surrounded by other cells and contained within a capsule called a primary follicle. At puberty, one or more of these follicles are stimulated to mature on a monthly basis. Once matured, these are called [[Graafian follicles]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The female reproductive system does not produce the ova; about 60,000 ova are present at birth, only 400 of which will mature during the woman's lifetime.<ref name="innerbody.com"/>

Ovulation is based on a monthly cycle; the 14th day is the most fertile. On days one to four, menstruation and production of estrogen and progesterone decreases, and the endometrium starts thinning. The endometrium is sloughed off for the next three to six days. Once menstruation ends, the cycle begins again with an FSH surge from the pituitary gland. Days five to thirteen are known as the pre-ovulatory stage. During this stage, the pituitary gland secretes [[follicle-stimulating hormone]] (FSH). A negative feedback loop is enacted when estrogen is secreted to inhibit the release of FSH. Estrogen thickens the endometrium of the uterus. A surge of [[Luteinizing Hormone]] (LH) triggers ovulation.

On day 14, the LH surge causes a Graafian follicle to surface the ovary. The follicle ruptures and the ripe ovum is expelled into the abdominal cavity. The fallopian tubes pick up the ovum with the [[Fimbriae of uterine tube|fimbria]]. The cervical mucus changes to aid the movement of sperm. On days 15 to 28—the post-ovulatory stage, the Graafian follicle—now called the [[corpus luteum]]—secretes estrogen. Production of progesterone increases, inhibiting LH release. The endometrium thickens to prepare for implantation, and the ovum travels down the Fallopian tubes to the uterus. If the ovum is not fertilized and does not implant, menstruation begins.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

===Sexual response cycle===
The sexual response cycle is a model that describes the physiological responses that occur during sexual activity. This model was created by [[William Masters]] and [[Virginia E. Johnson|Virginia Johnson]]. According to Masters and Johnson, the human sexual response cycle consists of four phases; excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution, also called the EPOR model. During the excitement phase of the EPOR model, one attains the intrinsic motivation to have sex. The plateau phase is the precursor to orgasm, which may be mostly biological for men and mostly psychological for women. Orgasm is the release of tension, and the resolution period is the unaroused state before the cycle begins again.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The male sexual response cycle starts in the excitement phase; two centers in the spine are responsible for erections. Vasoconstriction in the penis begins, the heart rate increases, the scrotum thickens, the spermatic cord shortens, and the testicles become engorged with blood. In the plateau phase, the penis increases in diameter, the testicles become more engorged, and the Cowper's glands secrete pre-seminal fluid. The orgasm phase, during which rhythmic contractions occur every 0.8 seconds{{Verify source|date=May 2012}}, consists of two phases; the emission phase, in which contractions of the vas deferens, prostate, and seminal vesicles encourage ejaculation, which is the second phase of orgasm. Ejaculation is called the expulsion phase; it cannot be reached without an orgasm. In the resolution phase, the male is now in an unaroused state consisting of a [[Refractory period (sex)|refractory (rest) period]] before the cycle can begin. This rest period may increase with age.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The female sexual response begins with the excitement phase, which can last from several minutes to several hours. Characteristics of this phase include increased heart and respiratory rate, and an elevation of blood pressure. Flushed skin or blotches of redness may occur on the chest and back; breasts increase slightly in size and nipples may become hardened and erect. The onset of [[vasocongestion]] results in swelling of the clitoris, labia minora, and vagina. The muscle that surrounds the vaginal opening tightens and the uterus elevates and grows in size. The vaginal walls begin to produce a lubricating liquid. The second phase, called the plateau phase, is characterized primarily by the intensification of the changes begun during the excitement phase. The plateau phase extends to the brink of orgasm, which initiates the resolution stage; the reversal of the changes begun during the excitement phase. During the orgasm stage the heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and breathing rates peak. The pelvic muscle near the vagina, the anal sphincter, and the uterus contract. Muscle contractions in the vaginal area create a high level of pleasure, though all orgasms are centered in the clitoris.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}<ref>{{cite web|last=Intimacy |first=Sinclair |url=http://health.howstuffworks.com/sexual-health/sexuality/sexual-response-dictionary1.htm |title=Discovery Health "Sexual Response" |publisher=Health.howstuffworks.com |date=25 April 2005 |access-date=18 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.proplusmedical.com/pages.html?pages_id=8 |title=Female Sexual Response Cycle |publisher=Proplusmedical.com |access-date=18 February 2013}}</ref><ref name="Koedt70">{{cite web |last = Koedt |first = Anne |title = The Myth of the Vaginal Orgasm |publisher = Chicago Women's Liberation Union |year = 1970 |url = http://www.cwluherstory.org/myth-of-the-vaginal-orgasm.html |access-date = 18 November 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160819232224/http://www.cwluherstory.org/myth-of-the-vaginal-orgasm.html |archive-date = 19 August 2016 }}</ref>

===Sexual dysfunction and sexual problems===
{{main|Sexual dysfunction}}
Sexual disorders, according to the DSM-IV-TR, are disturbances in sexual desire and psycho-physiological changes that characterize the sexual response cycle and cause marked distress and interpersonal difficulty. The sexual dysfunctions is a result of physical or psychological disorders. The physical causes include hormonal imbalance, diabetes, heart disease and more. The psychological causes includes but are not limited to stress, anxiety, and depression.<ref>{{cite web|title=Female Sexual Dysfunction|url=http://www.webmd.com/women/guide/sexual-dysfunction-women|website=webmd.com|publisher=webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref> The sexual dysfunction affects men and women. There are four major categories of sexual problems for women: desire disorders, arousal disorders, orgasmic disorders, and sexual pain disorders.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The sexual desire disorder occurs when an individual lacks the sexual desire because of hormonal changes, depression, and pregnancy. The arousal disorder is a female sexual dysfunction. Arousal disorder means lack of vaginal lubrication. In addition, blood flow problems may affect arousal disorder. Lack of orgasm, also known as, anorgasmia is another sexual dysfunction in women. The anorgasmia occurs in women with psychological disorders such as guilt and anxiety that was caused by sexual assault. The last sexual disorder is the painful intercourse. The sexual disorder can be result of pelvic mass, scar tissue, sexually transmitted disease and more.<ref>{{cite web|title=Female Sexual Dysfunction|url=http://www.webmd.com/women/guide/sexual-dysfunction-women?page=2|website=webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref>

There are also three common sexual disorders for men including, sexual desire, ejaculation disorder, and erectile dysfunction. The lack of sexual desire in men is because of loss of libido, low testosterone. There are also psychological factors such as anxiety, and depression.<ref>{{cite web|title=Male Sexual Problems|url=http://www.webmd.com/men/guide/mental-health-male-sexual-problems?page=2|website=Webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref>
The ejaculation disorder has three types: retrograde ejaculation, retarded ejaculation, premature ejaculation. The erectile dysfunction is a disability to have and maintain an erection during intercourse.<ref>{{cite book|title=Our Bodies, Ourselves|date=2011|publisher=Boston Women's Health Book Collective|isbn=978-0-7432-5611-7|edition=35th|url=https://archive.org/details/ourbodiesoursel00bost}}</ref>

==Psychological aspects==


As one form of behavior, the psychological aspects of sexual expression have been studied in the context of emotional involvement, gender identity, intersubjective [[intimacy]], and Darwinian reproductive efficacy. Sexuality in humans generates profound emotional and psychological responses. Some theorists identify sexuality as the central source of human personality.<ref>{{cite book |author=John Russon |title=Bearing Witness to Epiphany: Persons, Things, and the Nature of Erotic Life |publisher=State University of New York Press |location=Albany |year=2009 |isbn=978-1-4384-2504-7 |author-link=John Russon }}</ref> Psychological studies of sexuality focus on psychological influences that affect sexual behavior and experiences.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007" />{{page needed|date=February 2016}} Early psychological analyses were carried out by [[Sigmund Freud]], who believed in a [[Psychoanalysis|psychoanalytic]] approach. He also proposed the concepts of [[psychosexual development]] and the [[Oedipus complex]], among other theories.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psychology.about.com/od/theoriesofpersonality/ss/psychosexualdev.htm |title=What is Psychosexual Development? |author= Cherry, Kendra|publisher=About.com |access-date=12 October 2009}}{{better source|date=February 2016}}{{better source|date=February 2016}}</ref>

Gender identity is a person's sense of their own [[gender]], whether male, female, or [[Non-binary gender|non-binary]].<ref name="MorrowMessinger">''Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression in Social Work Practice'', edited by Deana F. Morrow and Lori Messinger (2006, {{ISBN|0231501862}}), p. 8: "Gender identity refers to an individual's personal sense of identity as masculine or feminine, or some combination thereof."</ref> Gender identity can correlate with [[assigned sex]] at birth or can differ from it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hrc.org/resources/sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-terminology-and-definitions|title=Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Definitions |first=Human Rights|last=Campaign}}</ref> All societies have a set of gender categories that can serve as the basis of the formation of a person's [[social identity]] in relation to other members of society.<ref>V. M. Moghadam, ''Patriarchy and the politics of gender in modernising societies'', in ''International Sociology'', 1992: "All societies have gender systems."</ref>

Sexual behavior and intimate relationships are strongly influenced by a person's sexual orientation.<ref name="Coon, D. 2007">Coon, D., & Mitterer, J.O. (2007). Introduction to psychology: gateways to mind and behavior (11th ed.). Australia: [[Thomson/Wadsworth]].</ref>

Sexual orientation is an enduring pattern of [[Romance (love)|romantic]] or [[Sexual attraction|sexual]] attraction (or a combination of these) to persons of the opposite sex, same sex, or both sexes.<ref name="Coon, D. 2007"/> Heterosexual people are romantically/sexually attracted to the members of the opposite sex, gay and lesbian people are romantically/sexually attracted to people of the same sex, and those who are bisexual are romantically/sexually attracted to both sexes.<ref name="AmPsycholAssn-whatis"/>

The idea that homosexuality results from reversed gender roles is reinforced by the media's portrayal of male homosexuals as effeminate and female homosexuals as masculine.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} However, a person's conformity or non-conformity to gender stereotypes does not always predict sexual orientation. Society believes that if a man is masculine he is heterosexual, and if a man is feminine he is homosexual. There is no strong evidence that a homosexual or bisexual orientation must be associated with atypical gender roles. By the early 21st century, homosexuality was no longer considered to be a pathology. Theories have linked many factors, including genetic, anatomical, birth order, and hormones in the prenatal environment, to homosexuality.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Other than the need to procreate, there are many other reasons people have sex. According to one study conducted on college students (Meston & Buss, 2007), the four main reasons for sexual activities are; physical attraction, as a means to an end, to increase emotional connection, and to alleviate insecurity.<ref>{{cite book |title=Psychology |url=https://archive.org/details/psychology0000scha |url-access=registration |year=2011 |publisher=Worth Publishers |page=[https://archive.org/details/psychology0000scha/page/336 336]|author1=Daniel L. Schacter |author2=Daniel T. Gilbert |author3=Daniel M. Wegner }}</ref>

==Sexuality and age==
===Child sexuality===
{{Main|Child sexuality}}
Until [[Sigmund Freud]] published his ''[[Three Essays on the Theory of Sexuality]]'' in 1905, children were often regarded as [[Asexuality|asexual]], having no sexuality until later development. Sigmund Freud was one of the first researchers to take child sexuality seriously. His ideas, such as psychosexual development and the Oedipus conflict, have been much debated but acknowledging the existence of child sexuality was an important development.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008">Santrock, J.W. (2008). A Topical Approach to Life-Span Development (4th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.</ref>

Freud gave sexual drives an importance and centrality in human life, actions, and behavior; he said sexual drives exist and can be discerned in children from birth. He explains this in his theory of [[infantile sexuality]], and says sexual energy ([[libido]]) is the most important motivating force in adult life. Freud wrote about the importance of interpersonal relationships to one's sexual and emotional development. From birth, the mother's connection to the infant affects the infant's later capacity for pleasure and [[attachment theory|attachment]].<ref>{{cite journal | last1 = Bretherton | first1 = Inge | year = 1992 | title = The origins of attachment theory: John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth | url = http://cmapspublic2.ihmc.us/rid=1LQX400NM-RBVKH9-1KL6/the%20origins%20of%20attachment%20theory%20john%20bowlby%20and%20mary%20ainsworth.pdf | journal = Developmental Psychology | volume = 28 | issue = 5| pages = 759–775 | doi=10.1037/0012-1649.28.5.759}}</ref> Freud described two currents of emotional life; an affectionate current, including our bonds with the important people in our lives; and a sensual current, including our wish to gratify sexual impulses. During adolescence, a young person tries to integrate these two emotional currents.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Alcorn|first1=Jean-Michel Quinodoz; translated by David|title=Reading Freud: a chronological exploration of Freud's writings|date=2005|isbn=978-1-317-71050-9|page=165|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A8hdAgAAQBAJ&pg=PT165}}</ref>

[[Alfred Kinsey]] also examined child sexuality in his [[Kinsey Reports]]. Children are naturally curious about their bodies and sexual functions. For example, they wonder where babies come from, they notice the differences between males and females, and many engage in [[genital play]], which is often mistaken for masturbation. Child sex play, also known as [[playing doctor]], includes exhibiting or inspecting the genitals. Many children take part in some sex play, typically with siblings or friends.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008"/> Sex play with others usually decreases as children grow, but they may later possess romantic interest in their peers. Curiosity levels remain high during these years, but the main surge in sexual interest occurs in adolescence.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008"/>

===Sexuality in late adulthood===
{{Main|Sexuality in older age}}
Adult sexuality originates in childhood. However, like many other human capacities, sexuality is not fixed, but matures and develops. A common stereotype associated with old people is that they tend to lose interest and the ability to engage in sexual acts once they reach late adulthood. This misconception is reinforced by Western popular culture, which often ridicules older adults who try to engage in sexual activities. Age does not necessarily change the need or desire to be sexually expressive or active. A couple in a long-term relationship may find that the frequency of their sexual activity decreases over time and the type of sexual expression may change, but many couples experience increased intimacy and love.<ref name=jrank>[http://family.jrank.org/pages/1532/Sexuality-in-Adulthood-Aging.html Sexuality in Adulthood – Aging], JRank Marriage and Family Encyclopedia, Net Industries</ref>

==Sociocultural aspects==
[[File:Leffler - WomensLib1970 WashingtonDC.jpg|thumb|right|450 px|A [[Second-wave feminism|Women's Liberation]] march in the U.S. Washington, DC, August 1970. March was from Farrugut Square to Lafayette Park.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.loc.gov/pictures/item/2003673992/ |title=Women's liberation march from Farrugut Square to Layfette (Lafayette Park) |publisher=Loc.gov |access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}]]
[[File:Demonstration, with Gay Liberation Front Banner, c1972 (7374381322).jpg|thumb|right|200 px|A [[Gay Liberation]] march in London, UK, ca. 1972. A Gay Liberation Front banner is visible. Location is believed to be Trafalgar Square.<ref>[http://archives.lse.ac.uk/Record.aspx?src=CalmView.Catalog&id=IMAGELIBRARY/1370]</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}]]

Human sexuality can be understood as part of the social life of humans, which is governed by implied rules of behavior and the status quo. This narrows the view to groups within a society.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The socio-cultural context of society, including the effects of politics and the mass media, influences and forms social norms. Throughout history, social norms have been changing and continue to change as a result of movements such as the sexual revolution and the rise of [[feminism]].<ref name=Escoffier2003>{{cite book |editor=Escoffier, Jeffrey |title=Sexual Revolution |publisher=Running Press |year=2003 |isbn=978-1-56025-525-3 |url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9781560255253 }}</ref><ref name="Friedan">{{cite news|title=Betty Friedan, Who Ignited Cause in 'Feminine Mystique,' Dies at 85 |url=http://www-nc.nytimes.com/2006/02/05/national/05friedan.html |work=The New York Times |date=5 February 2006 |access-date=12 October 2009}}{{subscription}}</ref>

=== Sex education ===
The age and manner in which children are informed of issues of sexuality is a matter of sex education. The school systems in almost all developed countries have some form of sex education, but the nature of the issues covered varies widely. In some countries, such as Australia and much of Europe, age-appropriate sex education often begins in pre-school, whereas other countries leave sex education to the pre-teenage and teenage years.<ref>{{cite news|title=Think Sex |publisher=TheAge.com.au |access-date=11 October 2009|url=https://www.theage.com.au/news/education-news/think-sex/2006/05/28/1148754861223.html}}</ref> Sex education covers a range of topics, including the physical, mental, and social aspects of sexual behavior. Geographic location also plays a role in society's opinion of the appropriate age for children to learn about sexuality. According to ''TIME'' magazine and CNN,{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}} 74% of teenagers in the United States reported that their major sources of sexual information were their peers and the media, compared to 10% who named their parents or a sex education course.<ref name="ReferenceA" />{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

In the United States, most sex education programs encourage [[Abstinence-only sex education|abstinence]], the choice to restrain oneself from sexual activity. In contrast, [[comprehensive sex education]] aims to encourage students to take charge of their own sexuality and know how to have safe, healthy, and pleasurable sex if and when they choose to do so.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.guttmacher.org/sites/default/files/report_downloads/demystifying-data-handouts_0.pdf|title=A Definition of Comprehensive Sexuality Education|last=Panchaud|first=Christine|date=2016|website=Guttmacher Institute}}</ref>

Proponents for an abstinence-only education believe that teaching a comprehensive curriculum would encourage teenagers to have sex, while proponents for comprehensive sex education argue that many teenagers will have sex regardless and should be equipped with knowledge of how to have sex responsibly. According to data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, many teens who intend to be abstinent fail to do so, and when these teenagers do have sex, many do not use safe sex practices such as contraceptives.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Bearman|first=Peter|date=2001|title=Promising the Future: Virginity Pledges and First Intercourse|journal=American Journal of Sociology|volume=106|issue=4|pages=859–912|doi=10.1086/320295|s2cid=142684938|url=https://academiccommons.columbia.edu/doi/10.7916/D8ZG73VN/download}}</ref>

===Sexuality in history===
{{Main|History of human sexuality}}
{{one source | section|date=February 2016}}


Sexuality has been an important, vital part of human existence throughout history.<ref name="ReferenceC">{{cite book | author = Stearns, Peter N. | year = 2009| title = Sexuality in World History | isbn = 978-0-415-77777-3 }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} All civilizations have managed sexuality through sexual standards, representations, and behavior.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before the rise of agriculture, groups of hunter-gatherers and nomadic groups inhabited the world. These groups had less restrictive sexual standards that emphasized sexual pleasure and enjoyment, but with definite rules and constraints. Some underlying continuities or key regulatory standards contended with the tension between recognition of pleasure, interest, and the need to procreate for the sake of social order and economic survival. Hunter-gatherers also placed high value on certain types of sexual symbolism.

A common tension in hunter-gatherer societies is expressed in their art, which emphasized male sexuality and prowess, but also blurred gender lines in sexual matters. One example of these male-dominated portrayals is the [[Egyptian creation myth]], in which the sun god [[Atum]] masturbates in the water, creating the [[Nile River]]. In [[Sumerian religion|Sumerian]] myth, the gods' semen filled the [[Tigris]].<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Once agricultural societies emerged, the sexual framework shifted in ways that persisted for many millennia in much of Asia, Africa, Europe, and parts of the Americas. One common characteristic new to these societies was the collective supervision of sexual behavior due to urbanization and the growth of population and population density. Children would commonly witness parents having sex because many families shared the same sleeping quarters. Due to land ownership, determination of children's paternity became important, and society and family life became patriarchal.{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}} These changes in sexual ideology were used to control female sexuality and to differentiate standards by gender. With these ideologies, sexual possessiveness and increases in jealousy emerged.

While retaining the precedents of earlier civilizations, each classical civilization established a somewhat distinctive approach to gender, artistic expression of sexual beauty, and to behaviors such as homosexuality. Some of these distinctions are portrayed in sex manuals, which were also common among civilizations in China, Greece, Rome, Persia, and India; each has its own sexual history.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before the [[High Middle Ages]], homosexual acts appear to have been ignored or tolerated by the Christian church.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu">{{cite web|url=http://psychology.ucdavis.edu/rainbow/html/facts_mental_health.html |title=Homosexuality and Mental Health |publisher=Psychology.ucdavis.edu |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref> During the 12th century, hostility toward homosexuality began to spread throughout religious and secular institutions. By the end of the 19th century, it was viewed as a pathology.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu"/>

During the beginning of the [[industrial revolution]] of the 18th and 19th centuries, many changes in sexual standards occurred. New artificial birth control devices such as the [[condom]] and [[diaphragm (contraceptive)|diaphragm]] were introduced. Doctors started claiming a new role in sexual matters, urging that their advice was crucial to sexual morality and health. New pornographic industries grew and Japan adopted its first laws against homosexuality. In Western societies, the definition of homosexuality was constantly changing; Western influence on other cultures became more prevalent. New contacts created serious issues around sexuality and sexual traditions. There were also major shifts in sexual behavior. During this period, puberty began occurring at younger ages, so a new focus on adolescence as a time of sexual confusion and danger emerged. There was a new focus on the purpose of marriage; it was increasing regarded as being for love rather than only for economics and reproduction.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

[[Havelock Ellis]] and Sigmund Freud adopted more accepting stances toward homosexuality; Ellis said homosexuality was inborn and therefore not immoral, not a disease, and that many homosexuals made significant contributions to society.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu"/> Freud wrote that all human beings as capable of becoming either heterosexual or homosexual; neither orientation was assumed to be innate.<ref name="King, B. 2009">{{cite book | author = King, Bruce M. | year = 2009 | title = Human Sexuality Today | edition = 6th | location = Upper Saddle River, NJ| publisher = Pearson Education }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} According to Freud, a person's orientation depended on the resolution of the Oedipus complex. He said male homosexuality resulted when a young boy had an authoritarian, rejecting mother and turned to his father for love and affection, and later to men in general. He said female homosexuality developed when a girl loved her mother and identified with her father, and became fixated at that stage.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

[[Alfred Kinsey]] initiated the modern era of sex research. He collected data from questionnaires given to his students at [[Indiana University]], but then switched to personal interviews about sexual behaviors. Kinsey and his colleagues sampled 5,300 men and 5,940 women. He found that most people masturbated, that many engaged in [[oral sex]], that women are capable of having multiple orgasms, and that many men had had some type of homosexual experience in their lifetimes. <ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before [[William Masters]], a physician, and [[Virginia E. Johnson|Virginia Johnson]], a [[behavioral scientist]], the study of anatomy and physiological studies of sex was still limited to experiments with laboratory animals. Masters and Johnson started to directly observe and record the physical responses in humans that are engaged in sexual activity under laboratory settings. They observed 10,000 episodes of sexual acts between 312 men and 382 women. This led to methods of treating clinical problems and abnormalities. Masters and Johnson opened the first sex therapy clinic in 1965. In 1970, they described their therapeutic techniques in their book, ''[[Human Sexual Inadequacy]]''.{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

In the first edition of The [[Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders]], the [[American Psychological Association|American Psychiatric Association]] classified homosexuality as a mental illness, and more specifically, a "sociopathic personality disturbance".<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal|last=Drescher|first=Jack|date=4 December 2015|title=Out of DSM: Depathologizing Homosexuality|journal=Behavioral Sciences|volume=5|issue=4|pages=565–575|doi=10.3390/bs5040565|issn=2076-328X|pmc=4695779|pmid=26690228}}</ref> This definition remained the professional understanding of homosexuality until 1973 when the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from their list of diagnoses for mental disorders.<ref name=":1" /> Through her research of heterosexual and homosexual men, [[Evelyn Hooker]] revealed that there was no correlation between homosexuality and psychological maladjustment,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/02/myth-buster|title=The myth buster|work=apa.org|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> and her findings played a pivotal role in shifting the scientific community away from the perspective that homosexuality was something that needed to be treated or cured.{{citation needed|date=October 2019}}

=== Sexuality, colonialism, and race ===
European conquerors/colonists found sexuality out of their norm about 1516 when [[Vasco Núñez de Balboa]], a Spanish explorer, discovered indigenous people in Central America with different sexual practices. Balboa found some indigenous men {{clarify|text=dressed up as women,|reason=It is unclear whether this means dressed in what the indigenes considered female attire or means dressed in what Balboa considered female attire.|date=April 2020}} resulting in him feeding forty of these men to his dogs for having different sexual practices. In North America and the United States, Europeans have used claims of sexual immorality to justify discrimination against racial and ethnic minorities.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Dictionary of American History|last=Turner|first=William B.|publisher=Charles Scribner's Sons|year=2003|location=New York, NY|pages=328–333}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=January 2020}}

Scholars also study the ways in which [[colonialism]] has affected sexuality today and argue that due to [[racism]] and [[slavery in the United States|slavery]] it has been dramatically changed from the way it had previously been understood.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3KBFhDytERkC|title=Women of Color and Feminism|last1=Rojas|first1=Maythee|date=2009|publisher=Seal Press|isbn=978-1-58005-272-6|edition=1st|ref=https://books.google.com/books?id=3KBFhDytERkC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false}}</ref>

In her book, ''Carnal Knowledge and Imperial Power: Gender, Race, and Morality in Colonial Asia'', Laura Stoler investigates how the Dutch used sexual control and gender-specific sexual sanctions to distinguish between the rulers from the ruled and enforce colonial domination onto the people of Indonesia.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Carnal Knowledge and Imperial Power: Gender, Race, and Morality in Colonial Asia|last=Stoler|first=Ann|publisher=University of California Press|year=2002}}</ref>

In America, there are 155 native tribes that are recorded to have embraced [[two-spirit]] people within their tribes, but the total number of tribes could be greater than what is documented.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Changing Ones: Third and Fourth Genders in Native North America|last=Roscoe|first=Will|publisher=Palgrave Macmillan|year=1998}}</ref> Two-spirit people were and still are members of communities who do not fall under Western gender categories of male and female, but rather under a "third gender" category.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Wilson|first=Trista|date=2011|journal=American Indian Law Review|volume=36|issue=1|pages=161–188|issn=0094-002X|jstor=41495705|title=Changed Embraces, Changes Embraced? Renouncing the Heterosexist Majority in Favor of a Return to Traditional Two-Spirit Culture}}</ref> This system of gender contradicts both the gender binary and the assertion that sex and gender are the same.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title=Becoming Two-Spirit: Gay Identity and Social Acceptance in Indian Country|last=Gilley|first=Brian|publisher=University of Nebraska Press|year=2006}}</ref> Instead of conforming to traditional roles of men and women, two-spirit fill a special niche in their communities.

For example, two-spirited people are commonly revered for possessing special wisdom and spiritual powers.<ref name=":0" /> Two-spirited people also can take part in marriages, either monogamous and polygamous ones.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Living the Spirit: a Gay American Indian Anthology|last=Roscoe|first=Will|publisher=St. Martins Press|year=1988}}</ref> Historically, European colonizers perceived relationships involving two-spirited people as homosexuality, and therefore believed in the moral inferiority of native people.<ref name=":0" /> In reaction, colonizers began to impose their own religious and social norms on indigenous communities, diminishing the role of two-spirit people in native cultures.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Jacobi|first=Jeffrey|date=2006|title=Two Spirits, Two Eras, Same Sex: For a Traditionalist Perspective on Native American Tribal Same-Sex Marriage Policy|journal=University of Michigan Journal of Law Reform}}</ref> Within reservations, the Religious Crime Code of the 1880s explicitly aimed to "aggressively attack Native sexual and marriage practices".<ref name=":0" /> The goal of colonizers was for native peoples to assimilate into Euro-American ideals of family, sexuality, gender expression, and more.<ref name=":0" />

The link between constructed sexual meanings and racial ideologies has been studied. According to Joane Nagel, sexual meanings are constructed to maintain racial-ethnic-national boundaries by the denigration of "others" and regulation of sexual behavior within the group. She writes, "both adherence to and deviation from such approved behaviors, define and reinforce racial, ethnic, and nationalist regimes".<ref name=Nagel>{{cite journal |author=Nagel, Joane |date=August 2000 |title=Ethnicity and Sexuality |journal=Annual Review of Sociology |volume=26 |pages=107–133 |doi=10.1146/annurev.soc.26.1.107|s2cid=145064276 |url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/ddb5a444cf727ad2f8209449dc14839ad38d025a }}</ref><ref name=Nagel2>{{cite journal|author=Nagel, Joane |year=2001 |title=Racial, Ethnic, and National Boundaries: Sexual Intersections and Symbolic Interactions |journal=Symbolic Interaction |volume=24 | issue = 2 |pages=123–139 |doi=10.1525/si.2001.24.2.123}}</ref> In the United States people of color face the effects of colonialism in different ways with stereotypes such as the Mammy, and Jezebel for Black women; [[Stereotypes of East Asians in the United States|lotus blossom, and dragon lady]] for Asian women; and the "spicy" Latina.<ref name="Mammy Jezebel and Sistahs on Racism.org">{{cite web|last1=Yarbrough|first1=Marilyn|last2=Bennet|first2=Crystal|title=Mammy Jezebel and Sistahs|url=http://racism.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1277:aawomen01a&catid=72&Itemid=215|website=Race, Racism and the Law!|publisher=racism.org|access-date=30 November 2015|ref=http://racism.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1277:aawomen01a&catid=72&Itemid=215}}</ref> These stereotypes contrast with standards of sexual conservatism, creating a dichotomy that dehumanizes and demonizes the stereotyped groups. An example of a stereotype that lies at the intersection of racism, classism, and misogyny is the archetype of the “[[welfare queen]].” Cathy Cohen describes how the "welfare queen" stereotype demonizes poor black single mothers for deviating from conventions surrounding family structure.<ref>{{Citation|chapter=Punks, Bulldaggers, and Welfare Queens|date=2005|pages=21–51|publisher=Duke University Press|doi=10.1215/9780822387220-003|isbn=9780822336297|title=Black Queer Studies|s2cid=48259239|chapter-url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/dfe95a5259e4f128f476dc444f07ae6e5369753b|last1=Cohen|first1=Cathy J.}}</ref>

===Reproductive and sexual rights===
{{Further|Reproductive health|Reproductive rights}}
[[Reproductive and sexual rights]] encompass the concept of applying [[human rights]] to issues related to reproduction and sexuality.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/gender_rights/sexual_health/en/ |title=WHO | Gender and human rights |publisher=Who.int |date=31 January 2002 |access-date=5 August 2014}}</ref> This concept is a modern one, and remains controversial since it deals, directly and indirectly, with issues such as [[contraception]], [[LGBT rights]], [[abortion]], [[sex education]], freedom to choose a partner, freedom to decide whether to be sexually active or not, right to bodily integrity, freedom to decide whether or not, and when, to have children.<ref>
{{cite journal |last=Stark |first=Barbara |year=2011 |title=The Women's Convention, Reproductive Rights, and the Reproduction of Gender |journal=Duke Journal of Gender Law & Policy |volume=18 |issue=261 |pages=261–304 |publisher=Duke University School of Law |access-date=3 November 2014 |url=http://scholarship.law.duke.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1189&context=djglp}}</ref><ref>
{{cite journal |author1=Sandfort, Theo G.M. |author2=Ehrhardt, Anke A. |date=June 2004 |title=Sexual Health: A Useful Public Health Paradigm or a Moral Imperative? |journal=Archives of Sexual Behavior |volume=33 |issue=3 |pages=181–187 |publisher=Springer Science and Business Media B.V. |pmid=15129037 |access-date=3 November 2014 |url=http://mph.ufl.edu/files/2012/01/session4jan22Sandfort2004.pdf |doi=10.1023/b:aseb.0000026618.16408.e0 |s2cid=36553310 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531124301/http://mph.ufl.edu/files/2012/01/session4jan22Sandfort2004.pdf |archive-date=31 May 2014 }}</ref> These are all global issues that exist in all cultures to some extent, but manifest differently depending on the specific contexts.

According to the Swedish government, "sexual rights include the right of all people to decide over their own bodies and sexuality" and "reproductive rights comprise the right of individuals to decide on the number of children they have and the intervals at which they are born."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/14/89/712f7e0c.pdf|title=Sweden's international policy on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights|publisher=Sweden Ministry of Foreign Affairs|year=2006|access-date=3 November 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531105838/http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/14/89/712f7e0c.pdf|archive-date=31 May 2014}}</ref> Such rights are not accepted in all cultures, with practices such criminalization of consensual sexual activities (such as those related to homosexual acts and sexual acts outside marriage), acceptance of [[forced marriage]] and [[child marriage]], failure to criminalize all non-consensual sexual encounters (such as [[marital rape]]), [[female genital mutilation]], or restricted availability of contraception, being common around the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/news/sexual-and-reproductive-rights-under-threat-worldwide-2014-03-06 |title=Sexual and reproductive rights under threat worldwide | Amnesty International |publisher=Amnesty.org |access-date=5 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/issues/women-s-rights/women-s-health-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/my-body-my-rights |title=My Body, My Rights! |publisher=Amnesty International |year=2013 |access-date=3 November 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407051912/http://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/issues/women-s-rights/women-s-health-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/my-body-my-rights |archive-date=7 April 2014 }}</ref>

=== Stigma of contraceptives in the U.S. ===
In 1915, Emma Goldman and Margaret Sanger,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/goldman/MeetEmmaGoldman/birthcontrolpioneer.html|title=Birth Control Pioneer|website=lib.berkeley.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> leaders of the birth control movement, began to spread information regarding contraception in opposition to the laws, such as the Comstock Law,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/comstock-law-1873|title=The Comstock Law (1873) {{!}} The Embryo Project Encyclopedia|website=embryo.asu.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> that demonized it. One of their main purposes was to assert that the birth control movement was about empowering women with personal reproductive and economic freedom for those who could not afford to parent a child or simply did not want one. Goldman and Sanger saw it necessary to educate people as contraceptives were quickly being stigmatized as a population control tactic due to being a policy limiting births, disregarding that this limitation did not target ecological, political, or large economic conditions.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Gordon|first=L.|date=1974|title=The politics of population: birth control and the eugenics movement|journal=Radical America|volume=8|issue=4|pages=61–98|issn=0033-7617|pmid=11615086}}</ref> This stigma targeted lower-class women who had the most need of access to contraception.

Birth control finally began to lose stigma in 1936 when the ruling of U.S. v. One Package<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/united-states-v-one-package-japanese-pessaries-1936|title=United States v. One Package of Japanese Pessaries (1936) {{!}} The Embryo Project Encyclopedia|website=embryo.asu.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> declared that prescribing contraception to save a person's life or well-being was no longer illegal under the Comstock Law. Although opinions varied on when birth control should be available to women, by 1938, there were 347 birth control clinics in the United States but advertising their services remained illegal.

The stigma continued to lose credibility as First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt publicly showed her support for birth control through the four terms her husband served (1933–1945). However, it was not until 1966 that the Federal Government began to fund family planning and subsidized birth control services for lower-class women and families at the order of President Lyndon B. Johnson. This funding continued after 1970 under the Family Planning Services and Population Research Act.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4847a1.htm|title=Achievements in Public Health, 1900–1999: Family Planning|website=cdc.gov|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> Today, all Health Insurance Marketplace plans are required to cover all forms of contraception, including sterilization procedures, as a result of The Affordable Care Act signed by President Barack Obama in 2010.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/affordable-care-act/|title=Affordable Care Act (ACA) – HealthCare.gov Glossary|website=HealthCare.gov|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref>

=== Stigma and activism during the AIDS epidemic ===
In 1981, doctors diagnosed the first reported cases of [[HIV/AIDS|AIDS]] in America. The disease disproportionately affected and continues to affect gay and bisexual men, especially black and Latino men.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.kff.org/hivaids/fact-sheet/the-hivaids-epidemic-in-the-united-states-the-basics/ |title=The HIV/AIDS Epidemic in the United States: The Basics |website=The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation |access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> The Reagan administration is criticized for its apathy towards the AIDS epidemic, and audio recordings reveal that Ronald Reagan's press secretary Larry Speakes viewed the epidemic as a joke, mocking AIDS by calling it the "gay plague".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vox.com/2015/12/1/9828348/ronald-reagan-hiv-aids|title=The Reagan administration's unbelievable response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic|last=Lopez|first=German|date=1 December 2015|website=Vox|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> The epidemic also carried stigma coming from religious influences. For example, Cardinal Krol voiced that AIDS was "an act of vengeance against the sin of homosexuality", which clarifies the specific meaning behind the pope's mention of "the moral source of AIDS."<ref>{{Cite journal|last=POIRIER|first=RICHARD|date=1988|title=AIDS and Traditions of Homophobia|journal=Social Research|volume=55|issue=3|pages=461–475|issn=0037-783X|jstor=40970515}}</ref>

[[HIV/AIDS activism|Activism]] during the AIDS crisis focused on promoting safe sex practices to raise awareness that the disease could be prevented. The "Safe Sex is Hot Sex" campaign, for example, aimed to promote the use of condoms.<ref name="Geiling">{{Cite web|url=https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-confusing-and-at-times-counterproductive-1980s-response-to-the-aids-epidemic-180948611/|title=The Confusing and At-Times Counterproductive 1980s Response to the AIDS Epidemic|last=Geiling|first=Natasha|website=Smithsonian|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> Campaigns by the U.S. government, however, diverged from advocacy of safe sex. In 1987, Congress even denied federal funding from awareness campaigns that "[promoted] or [encouraged], directly or indirectly, homosexual activities".<ref name="Geiling"/> Instead, campaigns by the government primarily relied on scare tactics in order to instill fear in men who had sex with other men.<ref name="Geiling"/>

In addition to prevention campaigns, activists also sought to counteract narratives that led to the "social death" for people living with AIDS.<ref name="Wright 1788–1798">{{Cite journal|last=Wright|first=Joe|date=15 August 2013|title=Only Your Calamity: The Beginnings of Activism by and for People With AIDS|journal=American Journal of Public Health|volume=103|issue=10|pages=1788–1798|doi=10.2105/AJPH.2013.301381|issn=0090-0036|pmc=3780739|pmid=23948013}}</ref> [[Gay men]] from San Francisco and New York City created the Denver Principles, a foundational document that demanded the rights, agency, and dignity of people living with AIDS.<ref name="Wright 1788–1798"/>

In his article "Emergence of Gay Identity and Gay Social Movements in Developing Countries", Matthew Roberts discusses how international AIDS prevention campaigns created opportunities for gay men to interact with other openly gay men from other countries.<ref name="Roberts 243–264">{{Cite journal|last=Roberts|first=Matthew W.|date=April 1995|title=Emergence of Gay Identity and Gay Social Movements in Developing Countries: The AIDS Crisis as Catalyst|journal=Alternatives: Global, Local, Political|volume=20|issue=2|pages=243–264|doi=10.1177/030437549502000205|s2cid=140772471|issn=0304-3754}}</ref> These interactions allowed western gay "culture" to be introduced to gay men in countries where homosexuality wasn't an important identifier. Thus, group organizers self-identified as gay more and more, creating the basis for further development of gay consciousness in different countries.<ref name="Roberts 243–264"/>

==Sexual behavior==
===General activities and health===
{{Main|Human sexual activity}}
{{See also|Sexual intercourse#Health effects|Sexually active life expectancy}}

In humans, sexual intercourse and sexual activity {{citation needed|date=December 2020}} in general have been shown to have health benefits, such as an improved sense of smell,{{citation needed|date=June 2016}} reduction in [[Stress (biology)|stress]] and blood pressure,<ref name="webmd.com">Doheny, K. (2008) [http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/10-surprising-health-benefits-of-sex "10 Surprising Health Benefits of Sex,"] [[WebMD]] (reviewed by Chang, L., M.D.)</ref><ref>Light, K.C. et al., "More frequent partner hugs and higher oxytocin levels are linked to lower blood pressure and heart rate in premenopausal women." ''Biological Psychology'', April 2005; vol 69: pp 5–21.</ref> increased [[immune system|immunity]],<ref>Charnetski CJ, Brennan FX. Sexual frequency and salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA). ''Psychological Reports'' 2004 Jun;94(3 Pt 1):839–844. Data on length of relationship and sexual satisfaction were not related to the group differences.</ref> and decreased risk of [[prostate cancer]].<ref>Michael F. Leitzmann; Edward Giovannucci. Frequency of Ejaculation and Risk of Prostate Cancer – Reply. ''JAMA''. (2004);292:329.</ref><ref>Leitzmann MF, Platz EA, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC, Giovannucci E. Ejaculation Frequency and Subsequent Risk of Prostate Cancer. ''JAMA''. (2004);291(13):1578–1586.</ref><ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 12887469 | volume=92 | issue=3 | title=Sexual factors and prostate cancer | date=August 2003 | journal=BJU Int. | pages=211–216 | last1 = Giles | first1 = GG | last2 = Severi | first2 = G | last3 = English | first3 = DR | display-authors = etal | doi=10.1046/j.1464-410x.2003.04319.x| s2cid=29430415 | doi-access=free }}</ref> Sexual intimacy and orgasms increase levels of oxytocin, which helps people bond and build trust.<ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 19482229 | doi=10.1016/j.pneurobio.2009.04.001 | volume=88 | issue=2 | title=Oxytocin: the great facilitator of life | pmc=2689929 | date=June 2009 | journal=Prog. Neurobiol. | pages=127–151 | last1 = Lee | first1 = HJ | last2 = Macbeth | first2 = AH | last3 = Pagani | first3 = JH | last4 = Young | first4 = WS}}</ref><ref>Riley AJ. Oxytocin and coitus. ''Sexual and Relationship Therapy'' (1988);3:29–36</ref><ref>Carter CS. Oxytocin and sexual behavior. ''Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews'' (1992);16(2):131–144</ref>

A long-term study of 3,500 people between ages 30 and 101 by clinical neuropsychologist David Weeks, MD, head of old-age psychology at the [[Royal Edinburgh Hospital]] in Scotland, said he found that "sex helps you look between four and seven years younger", according to impartial ratings of the subjects' photographs. Exclusive causation, however, is unclear, and the benefits may be indirectly related to sex and directly related to significant reductions in stress, greater contentment, and better sleep that sex promotes.<ref>{{cite web|last=Blum|first=Jeffrey |title=Can Good Sex Keep You Young?|url=http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=51501|website=WebMD|access-date=8 October 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Weeks|first=David|title=Secrets of the Superyoung|year=1999|publisher=Berkley|isbn=978-0-425-17258-2|page=[https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780425172582/page/277 277]|url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780425172582/page/277}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Northrup|first=Christiane|title=Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing|year=2010|publisher=Bantam|isbn=978-0-553-80793-6|page=960|url={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=V9S3keMnie8C |page=232 }} }}</ref>

Sexual intercourse can also be a [[vector (epidemiology)|disease vector]].<ref>"[http://www.4parents.gov/sexrisky/stds/common_std/common_std.html Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110625104729/http://www.4parents.gov/sexrisky/stds/common_std/common_std.html |date=25 June 2011 }}". U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.</ref> There are 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) every year in the U.S.,<ref name="CDC">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats08/surv2008-Complete.pdf Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance], 2008. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; November 2009.[https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats08/2008survFactSheet.PDF Fact Sheet]</ref> and worldwide there are over 340 million STD infections each year.<ref name="who">World Health Organization Fact Sheet on Sexually Transmitted Diseases. {{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs110/en/print.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=24 July 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120709030847/http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs110/en/print.html |archive-date=9 July 2012 }} Accessed 27 May 2010</ref> More than half of these occur in adolescents and young adults aged 15–24 years.<ref>Weinstock H, et al. Sexually transmitted diseases among American youth: incidence and prevalence estimates, 2000. ''Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health'' (2004);36(1):6–10.</ref> At least one in four U.S. teenage girls has a sexually transmitted disease.<ref name="CDC"/><ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/science/12std.html?_r=1 Sex Infections Found in Quarter of Teenage Girls]. [[The New York Times]]. 12 March 2008.</ref> In the U.S., about 30% of 15- to 17-year-olds have had sexual intercourse, but only about 80% of 15- to 19-year-olds report using condoms for their first sexual intercourse.<ref>CDC. Sexual and Reproductive Health of Persons Aged 10–24 Years – United States, 2002–2007. MMWR 20009; 58 (No. SS-6):1–59 [https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/ss/ss5806.pdf]</ref> In one study, more than 75% of young women age 18–25 years felt they were at low risk of acquiring an STD.<ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 12855216 | volume=37 | issue=2 | title=Factors associated with condom use among at-risk women students and nonstudents seen in managed care | date=August 2003 | journal=Prev Med | pages=163–170 | last1 = Yarnall | first1 = KS | last2 = McBride | first2 = CM | last3 = Lyna | first3 = P | display-authors = etal | doi=10.1016/s0091-7435(03)00109-9}}</ref>

===Creating a relationship===
{{More citations needed section|date=June 2015}}
[[File:Eugen de Blaas The Flirtation.jpg|thumb|right|''The Flirtation'', [[Eugene de Blaas]], 1904.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.artrenewal.org/pages/artist.php?artistid=326 |title=Art Renewal Center Museum™ Artist Information for Eugene de Blaas |publisher=Artrenewal.org |access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref>]]
People both consciously and subconsciously seek to attract others with whom they can form deep relationships. This may be for companionship, procreation, or an intimate relationship. This involves interactive processes whereby people find and attract potential partners and maintain a relationship. These processes, which involve attracting one or more partners and maintaining sexual interest, can include:
* [[Flirting]], the attraction of the sexual attention of another to encourage romance or sexual relations. It can involve [[body language]], conversation, joking, or brief physical contact.<ref>[http://www.sirc.org/publik/flirt.html SIRC Guide to Flirting. What Social Science can tell you about flirting and how to do it.] Retrieved 13 October 2009.</ref> Flirting is a socially accepted way of attracting someone. There are different types of flirting, and most people usually have one way of flirting that makes them most comfortable. When flirting, people can be polite, playful, physical, etc. Sometimes it is difficult to know whether or not the person is interested.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.ku.edu/2013/09/11/new-book-outlines-five-types-flirting-styles |title= New book outlines five types of flirting styles |last=Schmidt |first=Megan | publisher=KU News Service |date=9 November 2013 |website=University of Kansas |access-date=7 December 2015}}</ref> Flirting styles vary according to culture. Different cultures have different social etiquette. For example, length of eye contact, or how closely one stands by someone.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.spiegel.de/international/0,1518,419712,00.html |title=Scoring a German: Flirting with Fräuleins, Hunting for Herren |publisher=Spiegel.de |access-date=7 December 2015}}</ref>
* [[Seduction]], the process whereby one person deliberately entices another to engage in sexual behavior.<ref>{{cite book | author=Greene, Robert | author-link=Robert Greene (author) | title=The Art of Seduction | publisher=Penguin Books | year=2003 | isbn=978-0-14-200119-6 | url=https://archive.org/details/artofseduction00robe_0 }}</ref> This behavior is one that the person you are seducing would not usually do, unless sexually aroused. Seduction can be seen as both a positive and a negative. Since the word seduction has a Latin meaning, which is "to lead astray" it can be viewed negatively.<ref>Buss, D. (1996) ''The Evolution of Desire: Strategies of Human Mating''.</ref>

===Sexual attraction===
{{Main|Sexual attraction}}
Sexual attraction is [[Attractiveness|attraction]] on the basis of [[sexual desire]] or the quality of arousing such interest.<ref name="Sexual attraction">{{cite web|title=Sexual attraction|publisher=[[TheFreeDictionary.com]]|access-date=16 December 2011|url=http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sexual+attraction|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331224102/http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sexual+attraction|archive-date=31 March 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Sexual attraction2">{{cite web|title=Sexual attraction| publisher=Reference.com|access-date=16 December 2011|url=http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/sexual+attraction}}</ref> Sexual attractiveness or sex appeal is an individual's ability to attract the sexual or [[erotic]] interest of another person, and is a factor in [[sexual selection]] or [[mate choice]]. The attraction can be to the [[physical attraction|physical]] or other qualities or traits of a person, or to such qualities in the context in which they appear. The attraction may be to a person's [[aesthetics]] or movements or to their voice or smell, besides other factors. The attraction may be enhanced by a person's adornments, clothing, perfume, [[long hair|hair length]] and [[hair style|style]], and anything else which can attract the sexual interest of another person. It can also be influenced by [[individual]] [[Genetics|genetic]], [[psychological]], or cultural factors, or to other, more amorphous qualities of the person. Sexual attraction is also a response to another person that depends on a combination of the person possessing the traits and also on the criteria of the person who is attracted.

Though attempts have been made to devise objective criteria of sexual attractiveness, and measure it as [[individual capital|one of several bodily forms of]] [[capital asset]] (''see [[erotic capital]]''), a person's sexual attractiveness is to a large extent a subjective measure dependent on another person's interest, perception, and [[sexual orientation]]. For example, a [[Homosexuality|gay or lesbian person]] would typically find a person of the [[Same-sex attraction|same sex]] to be more attractive than one of the other sex. A [[bisexuality|bisexual person]] would find either sex to be attractive.

In addition, there are [[Asexuality|asexual]] people, who usually do not experience sexual attraction for either sex, though they may have romantic attraction (homoromantic, biromantic or heteroromantic). [[Interpersonal attraction]] includes factors such as [[propinquity|physical or psychological similarity]], [[Intimate relationship#Intimacy|familiarity]] or possessing a preponderance of [[Koinophilia#Physical attractiveness|common or familiar features]], [[similarity (psychology)|similarity]], [[Interpersonal compatibility|complementarity]], [[reciprocal liking]], and [[reinforcement]].<ref>Miller, R., Perlman, D., and Brehm, S.S. Intimate Relationships, 4th Edition, McGrawHill Companies.{{page needed|date=December 2012}}</ref>

The ability of a person's physical and other qualities to create a sexual interest in others is the basis of their use in [[sex in advertising|advertising]], [[music video]], [[pornography]], [[Sex in film|film]], and other visual media, as well as in [[Model (person)|modeling]], [[sex work]] and other occupations.

===Legal issues===

{{Main|Family law |Divorce |Marriage |Human sexual activity#Legal issues|Sex and the law}}
Globally, laws regulate human sexuality in several ways, including criminalizing particular sexual behaviors, granting individuals the privacy or [[autonomy]] to make their own sexual decisions, protecting individuals with regard to equality and non-discrimination, recognizing and protecting other individual rights, as well as legislating matters regarding marriage and the family, and creating laws protecting individuals from violence, harassment, and persecution.<ref name=SexualityLaw1>{{cite web | last1 = Mills |first1=Elizabeth |last2=Haste |first2=Polly |last3=Wood |first3=Stephen | date = 17 June 2016 | title = 1. Issues and Debates; How is sexuality regulated in law? | work = Sexuality and Social Justice: A Toolkit | location = Brighton, UK | publisher = Institute of Development Studies, Sexuality, Poverty and Law Programme | url = http://www.spl.ids.ac.uk/sexuality-and-social-justice-toolkit/1-issues-and-debates/how-sexuality-regulated-law | access-date = 17 June 2016 }}</ref>

In the United States, there are two fundamentally different approaches, applied in different states, regarding the way the law is used to attempt to govern a person's sexuality. The "black letter" approach to law focuses on the study of pre-existing legal precedent, and attempts to offer a clear framework of rules within which lawyers and others can work.<ref name=SexualityLaw1/> In contrast, the socio-legal approach focuses more broadly on the relationship between the law and society, and offers a more contextualized view of the relationship between legal and social change.<ref name=SexualityLaw1/>

Issues regarding human sexuality and human sexual orientation have come to the forefront in Western law in the latter half of the twentieth century, as part of the [[gay liberation]] movement's encouragement of [[LGBT]] individuals to "[[come out of the closet]]" and engaging with the legal system, primarily through courts. Therefore, many issues regarding human sexuality and the law are found in the opinions of the courts.<ref name=Minnesota1>{{cite web|title=Researching Legal Issues of Sexual Orientation|url=https://library.law.umn.edu/researchguides/sexual-orientation.html|website=library.law.umn.edu|publisher=University of Minnesota|access-date=3 July 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705012329/https://library.law.umn.edu/researchguides/sexual-orientation.html|archive-date=5 July 2015}}</ref>

====Sexual privacy====
{{See also|Sexual and reproductive health and rights}}
While the issue of privacy has been useful to sexual rights claims, some scholars have criticized its usefulness, saying that this perspective is too narrow and restrictive. The law is often slow to intervene in certain forms of coercive behavior that can limit individuals' control over their own sexuality (such as [[female genital mutilation]], [[forced marriages]] or lack of access to reproductive health care). Many of these injustices are often perpetuated wholly or in part by private individuals rather than state agents, and as a result, there is an ongoing debate about the extent of state responsibility to prevent harmful practices and to investigate such practices when they do occur.<ref name=SexualityLaw1 />

State intervention with regards to sexuality also occurs, and is considered acceptable by some, in certain instances (e.g. same-sex sexual activity or [[prostitution]]).<ref name=SexualityLaw1 />

The legal systems surrounding [[prostitution]] are a topic of debate. Proponents for criminalization argue that sex work is an immoral practice that should not be tolerated, while proponents for decriminalization point out how criminalization does more harm than good. Within the feminist movement, there is also a debate over whether sex work is inherently objectifying and exploitative or whether sex workers have the agency to sell sex as a service.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.timescolonist.com/opinion/columnists/kate-heartfield-do-prostitutes-sell-themselves-or-a-service-1.877652|title=Kate Heartfield: Do prostitutes sell themselves or a service?|last=Heartfield|first=Kate|website=Times Colonist|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref>

When sex work is criminalized, sex workers do not have support from law enforcement when they fall victim to violence. In a 2003 survey of street-based sex workers in NYC, 80% said they had been threatened with or experienced violence, and many said the police were no help. 27% said they had experienced violence from police officers themselves.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://sexworkersproject.org/downloads/RevolvingDoor.pdf|title=Revolving Door|last=Thukral|first=Juhu|date=2003|website=Sex Workers Project|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040103043554/http://sexworkersproject.org/downloads/RevolvingDoor.pdf|archive-date=2004-01-03}}</ref> Different identities such as being black, transgender, or poor can result in a person being more likely to be criminally profiled by the police. For example, in New York, there is a law against "loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution", which has been nicknamed the "walking while trans" law because of how often transgender women are assumed to be sex workers and arrested for simply walking out in public.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vox.com/2019/8/2/20692327/sex-work-decriminalization-prostitution-new-york-dc|title=Sex workers' fight for decriminalization, explained|last=North|first=Anna|date=2 August 2019|website=Vox|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref>

==Religious sexual morality==
{{Main|Religion and sexuality}}
In some religions, sexual behavior is regarded as primarily spiritual. In others it is treated as primarily physical. Some hold that sexual behavior is only spiritual within certain kinds of relationships, when used for specific purposes, or when incorporated into religious ritual. In some religions there are no distinctions between the physical and the spiritual, whereas some religions view human sexuality as a way of completing the gap that exists between the spiritual and the physical.<ref>{{cite web|title=Religion and Sexuality|url=http://www.iwgonline.org/sexuality/|publisher=Interfaith Working Group|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

Many religious conservatives, especially those of [[Abrahamic religions]] and [[Christianity]] in particular, tend to view sexuality in terms of behavior (''i.e.'' homosexuality or heterosexuality is what someone does) and certain sexualities such as [[bisexuality]] tend to be ignored as a result of this.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} These conservatives tend to promote [[celibacy]] for gay people, and may also tend to believe that sexuality can be changed through [[conversion therapy]]<ref name=Tolerance111>{{cite web | title= Two Definitions and Six Interpretations | url=http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom6beli.htm | website=religioustolerance.org | access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref> or [[prayer]] to become an [[ex-gay]]. They may also see homosexuality as a form of mental illness, something that ought to be criminalised, an immoral abomination, caused by ineffective parenting, and view [[same-sex marriage]] as a threat to society.<ref name=Tolerance222>{{cite web|title=Subdividing Two Extreme Belief Systems About Homosexuality into Six Discrete Viewpoints | url=http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom7beli.htm|website=religioustolerance.org | access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

On the other hand, most religious liberals define sexuality-related labels in terms of [[sexual attraction]] and self-identification.<ref name=Tolerance111 /> They may also view same-sex activity as morally neutral and as legally acceptable as opposite-sex activity, unrelated to mental illness, genetically or environmentally caused (but not as the result of bad parenting), and fixed. They also tend to be more in favor of same-sex marriage.<ref name=Tolerance222 />

===Judaism===
According to [[Judaism]], sex between man and woman within marriage is sacred and should be enjoyed; celibacy is considered sinful.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

=== Christianity ===
Desire, including sexual desire and lust, are considered immoral and sinful.<ref name="Knust2005">{{cite book|author=Jennifer Wright Knust|title=Abandoned to Lust: Sexual Slander and Ancient Christianity|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2AUEAmdWwuUC&pg=PA1|date=9 November 2005|publisher=Columbia University Press|isbn=978-0-231-51004-2|pages=51, 67, 78}}</ref><ref name="Pagels2011">{{cite book|author=Elaine Pagels|title=Adam, Eve, and the Serpent: Sex and Politics in Early Christianity|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=btufm2vXzpEC&pg=PR17|date=5 October 2011|publisher=Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group|isbn=978-0-307-80735-9|pages=xvii-xix}}</ref><ref name="Wiesner-Hanks2000">{{cite book|last=Wiesner-Hanks|first=Merry E.|title=Christianity and Sexuality in the Early Modern World: Regulating Desire, Reforming Practice|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4v1zuZF-te0C&pg=PA1|year=2000|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-14434-6|page=10}}</ref> [[Elaine Pagels]] says, "By the beginning of the fifth century, [[Augustine of Hippo|Augustine]] had actually declared that spontaneous sexual desire is the proof of—and penalty for—universal original sin", though that this view goes against "most of his Christian predecessors".<ref name="Pagels2011" /> According to [[Jennifer Wright Knust]], [[Paul the Apostle|Paul]] framed desire a force Christians gained control over whereas non-Christians were "enslaved" by it.<ref name="Knust2005" /> Further, Paul says the bodies of Christians were members of [[Body of Christ|Christ's body]] and thus sexual desire must be eschewed.<ref name="Knust2005" />

====Roman Catholic Church====
The [[Roman Catholic Church]] teaches that sexuality is "noble and worthy"<ref>Second Vatican Council, Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the World of Today, no. 49: AAS 58 (1966), 1070</ref> but that it must be used in accordance with natural law. For this reason, all sexual activity must occur in the context of a marriage between a man and a woman, and must not be divorced from the possibility of conception. Most forms of sex without the possibility of conception are considered intrinsically disordered and sinful, such as the use of contraceptives, [[masturbation]], and homosexual acts.<ref>{{cite web|title=Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Sixth Commandment|url=https://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a6.htm|website=vatican.va|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

====Anglicanism====
The [[Anglicanism|Anglican Church]] teaches that human sexuality is a gift from a loving God designed to be between a man and a woman in a monogamous lifetime union of marriage. It also views singleness and dedicated celibacy as Christ-like. It states that people with same sex attraction are loved by God and are welcomed as full members of the [[Body of Christ]], while the Church leadership has a variety of views in regard to homosexual expression and ordination. Some expressions of sexuality are considered sinful including "promiscuity, prostitution, incest, pornography, paedophilia, predatory sexual behaviour, and sadomasochism (all of which may be heterosexual and homosexual), adultery, violence against wives, and female circumcision". The Church is concerned with pressures on young people to engage sexually and encourages abstinence.<ref>{{cite web|title=Section I.10 - Human Sexuality|url=https://www.anglicancommunion.org/resources/document-library/lambeth-conference/1998/section-i-called-to-full-humanity/section-i10-human-sexuality|website=anglicancommunion.org|access-date=4 January 2020}}</ref>

====Evangelicalism====
In matters of sexuality, several [[Evangelical]] churches promote the [[virginity pledge]] among young Evangelical Christians, who are invited to commit themselves during a public ceremony to [[sexual abstinence]] until [[Christian marriage]].<ref>John DeLamater, Rebecca F. Plante, ''Handbook of the Sociology of Sexualities'', Springer, USA, 2015, p. 351</ref> This pledge is often symbolized by a [[purity ring]].<ref>Kathleen J. Fitzgerald, Kandice L. Grossman, ''Sociology of Sexualities'', SAGE Publications, USA, 2017, p. 166</ref>

In evangelical churches, young adults and unmarried couples are encouraged to marry early in order to live a sexuality according to the will of God.<ref>Noah Manskar, [https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/religion/2014/08/12/southern-baptists-double-marriage/13894197/ Baptists encourage marrying younger], tennessean.com, USA, August 12, 2014</ref>

Although some churches are discreet on the subject, other evangelical churches in [[United States]] and [[Switzerland]] speak of a satisfying sexuality as a gift from God and a component of a harmonious [[Christian marriage]], in messages during [[Worship service (evangelicalism)|worship services]] or conferences.<ref>Timothy J. Demy Ph.D., Paul R. Shockley Ph.D., ''Evangelical America: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary American Religious Culture'', ABC-CLIO, USA, 2017, p. 371</ref><ref>Emma Green, [https://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2014/11/the-warrior-wives-of-evangelical-christianity/382365/ The Warrior Wives of Evangelical Christianity], theatlantic.com, USA, November 9, 2014</ref> Many evangelical books and websites are specialized on the subject.<ref>Kelsy Burke, ''Christians Under Covers: Evangelicals and Sexual Pleasure on the Internet'', University of California Press, USA, 2016, p. 31, 66</ref>

The [[Christianity and homosexuality#Evangelical churches|perceptions of homosexuality in the Evangelical Churches]] are varied. They range from [[Liberal Christianity|liberal]] through [[Moderate evangelical theology|moderate]] to [[Christian fundamentalism|conservative]].<ref>Jeffrey S. Siker, ''Homosexuality and Religion: An Encyclopedia'', Greenwood Publishing Group, USA, 2007, p. 112</ref><ref>William Henard, Adam Greenway, ''Evangelicals Engaging Emergent'', B&H Publishing Group, USA, 2009, p. 20</ref>

==== Eastern Orthodox Church ====
{{Empty section|date=March 2021}}

===Islam===
{{Main|Sex in Islam}}
In [[Islam]], sexual desire is considered to be a natural urge that should not be suppressed, although the concept of free sex is not accepted; these urges should be fulfilled responsibly. Marriage is considered to be a good deed; it does not hinder spiritual wayfaring. The term used for marriage within the [[Quran]] is ''nikah''{{citation needed|date=March 2021}}, which literally means sexual intercourse. Although Islamic sexuality is restrained via [[Islamic sexual jurisprudence]], it emphasizes sexual pleasure within marriage. It is acceptable for a man to have more than one wife, but he must take care of those wives physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually.<ref>{{cite book | author = Stearns, Peter N. | title = Major Patterns of Change and Continuity: World History in Brief }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}} Muslims believe that sexual intercourse is an act of worship that fulfils emotional and physical needs, and that producing children is one way in which humans can contribute to God's creation, and Islam discourages celibacy once an individual is married.

However, homosexuality is strictly forbidden in Islam, and some Muslim lawyers have suggested that gay people should be put to death.<ref>{{cite web|title=Islam: beliefs about love and sex|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/isloveandsexrev1.shtml|publisher=GCSE BBC Bitesize|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref> On the other hand, some have argued that Islam has an open and playful approach to sex<ref>[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/sex/10031095/Sex-What-Muslim-women-really-want-in-the-bedroom.html], Article titled "Sex: What Muslim women really want in the bedroom", by Shelina Janmohamed, ''The Telegraph'', 2 May 2013, accessed on 23 September 2015.</ref> so long as it is within marriage, free of lewdness, fornication and adultery.

For many Muslims, sex with reference to the Quran indicates that—bar anal intercourse and adultery—a Muslim marital home bonded by ''[[Nikah]]'' marital contract between husband and his wife (or wives) should enjoy and even indulge, within the privacy of their marital home, in limitless scope of [[heterosexual]] sexual acts within a [[monogamous]] or [[polygamous]] marriage.<ref>[https://lifeinsideislam.wordpress.com/2015/10/22/sex-in-reference-to-the-quran/ Sex in reference to Quran] by A Taha, Accessed on 22 October 2015{{unreliable source?|date=October 2015}}</ref>

===Hinduism===
[[Hinduism]] emphasizes that sex is only appropriate between husband and wife, in which satisfying sexual urges through sexual pleasure is an important duty of marriage. Any sex before marriage is considered to interfere with intellectual development, especially between birth and the age of 25, which is said to be brahmacharya and this should be avoided. [[Kama]] (sensual pleasures) is one of the four purusharthas or aims of life (dharma, artha, kama, and moksha).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/hiloveandsexrev1.shtml |title=GCSE Bitesize: Hindu views |publisher=BBC |access-date=30 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140131225017/http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/hiloveandsexrev1.shtml |archive-date=31 January 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Hindu ''[[Kama Sutra]]'' deals partially with sexual intercourse; it is not exclusively a sexual or religious work.<ref>[http://indrasinha.com/kama-sutra/ Common misconceptions about ''Kama Sutra''.] "The ''Kama Sutra'' is neither exclusively a sex manual nor, as also commonly used art, a sacred or religious work. It is certainly not a [[Tantra|tantric]] text.

In opening with a discussion of the three aims of ancient Hindu life—[[dharma]], [[artha]] and [[kama]]—[[Vātsyāyana|Vatsyayana's]] purpose is to set kama, or enjoyment of the senses, in context. Thus dharma or virtuous living is the highest aim, artha, the amassing of wealth is next, and kama is the least of three." —[[Indra Sinha]].</ref><ref>{{Cite book | last = Carroll| first = Janell| title = Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity| publisher = [[Cengage Learning]]| year = 2009| page = 7| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=5f8mQx7ULs4C&pg=PA7| isbn = 978-0-495-60274-3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book | last = Devi| first = Chandi| title = From Om to Orgasm: The Tantra Primer for Living in Bliss| publisher = [[AuthorHouse]]| year = 2008| page = 288| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=gIqhh84DGToC&pg=PA288| isbn = 978-1-4343-4960-6}}</ref>

===Sikhism===
[[Sikhism]] views [[chastity]] as important, as Sikhs believe that the divine spark of ''[[Waheguru]]'' is present inside every individual's body, therefore it is important for one to keep clean and pure. Sexual activity is limited to married couples, and extramarital sex is forbidden. Marriage is seen as a commitment to ''Waheguru'' and should be viewed as part of spiritual companionship, rather than just sexual intercourse, and [[monogamy]] is deeply emphasised in Sikhism. Any other way of living is discouraged, including celibacy and homosexuality. However, in comparison to other religions, the issue of sexuality in Sikhism is not considered one of paramount importance.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sikhism: beliefs about love and sex|url=https://ahcaf.com/sikhism-beliefs-about-love-and-sex/|publisher=GCSE BBC Bitesize|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|Human sexuality}}
{{collist|colwidth=30em|
* [[Adolescent sexuality]]
* [[Age of consent]]
* [[Antisexualism]]
* [[Gay sexual practices]]
* [[Human female sexuality]]
* [[Human male sexuality]]
* [[Human mating strategies]]
* [[Strategic pluralism]]
* [[Lesbian sexual practices]]
* [[Neuroscience and sexual orientation]]
* [[Sex magic]]
* [[Sexology]]
* [[Sex-positive movement]]
* [[Sex-positive feminism]]
* [[Sexualization]]
* [[Sociosexual orientation]]
}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite book | last = Durham | first = Meenakshi G. | title = TechnoSex: technologies of the body, mediated corporealities, and the quest for the sexual self | publisher = University of Michigan Press | location = Ann Arbor | year = 2012 | url = http://clas.uiowa.edu/gwss/news-events/durham-and-waters-freyer-awarded-ahi-grants-2012-13 | author-link1 = Meenakshi Gigi Durham }}
*{{cite journal |last1=Ember |first1=Carol R. |last2=Escobar |first2=Milagro |last3=Rossen |first3=Noah |editor=C. R. Ember |editor-link=Carol_R._Ember |author-link1=Carol R. Ember |title=Sexuality |url=http://hraf.yale.edu/ehc/summaries/sexuality |website=HRAF: Explaining Human Culture |access-date=28 May 2020 |language=en |date=26 September 2019 |quote=Sexual reproduction is part of the biological nature of humans, so it may be surprising how much sexuality varies cross-culturally. Indeed, societies vary considerably in the degree to which they encourage, discourage, or even appear to fear heterosexual sex at different life stages and in varying circumstances.}}
* Gregersen, E. (1982). ''Sexual Practices: The Story of Human Sexuality''. New York: F. Watts.
* Lyons, Andrew P. & Harriet D., eds. ''Sexualities in Anthropology: a reader''. Malden, MA: Wiley-Blackwell, 2011 {{ISBN|1-4051-9054-X}}
* Richardson, Niall; Smith, Clarissa & Werndly, Angela (2013) ''Studying Sexualities: Theories, Representations, Cultures''. London: Palgrave Macmillan
* [[Alan Soble|Soble, Alan]] (ed.). ''Sex from Plato to Paglia'': A Philosophical Encyclopedia, 2 volumes. Greenwood Press, 2006.
* {{cite journal | last1 = Wood | first1 = H. Sex | year = 2003 | title = "Sex Cells." (news report) | journal = Nature Reviews Neuroscience | volume = 4 | page = 88 | doi = 10.1038/nrn1044 | s2cid = 35928534 | doi-access = free }} Lay summary of primary source appearing from the University of Calgary, in ''Science,'' on prolactin release during sexual activity in mice, and its possible relationship to stroke therapy.

== External links ==
* "[http://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1123&context=childrenatrisk Examining the Relationship Between Media Use and Aggression, Sexuality, and Body Image]," Journal of Applied Research on Children: Informing Policy for Children at Risk: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 3.
* [http://www.sexology.it/glossary-of-sexology.html Glossary of clinical sexology – Glossario di sessuologia clinica]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071010100542/http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/IES/index.html International Encyclopedia of Sexuality] [https://web.archive.org/web/20060212144108/http://www2.rz.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/IES/BEGIN.HTM full text]
* Janssen, D.F., [https://web.archive.org/web/20060220110820/http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/GUS/INDEXATLAS.HTM ''Growing Up Sexually. Volume I. World Reference Atlas''] [full text]
* Masters, William H., Virginia E. Johnson, and Robert C. Kolodny. ''Crisis: Heterosexual Behavior in the Age of AIDS''. First ed. New York: Grove Press, 1988. ix, 243 p. {{ISBN|0-8021-1049-5}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120205191708/http://nsrc.sfsu.edu/ National Sexuality Resource Center]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160416215051/http://data360.org/pdf/20070416064139.Global%20Sex%20Survey.pdf Durex Global Sex Survey 2005] at [https://web.archive.org/web/20160510100720/http://www.data360.org/index.aspx data360.org]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060213230309/http://db.jhuccp.org/popinform/basic.html POPLINE] is a searchable database of the world's [[reproductive health]] [[literature]].
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080521085828/http://www.kinseyinstitute.org/ccies/ The Continuum Complete International Encyclopedia of Sexuality at the Kinsey Institute]
* [http://www.sexualityinstitute.org/ The Sexuality and Rights Institute]
* [http://www.asiasrc.org/ The South and Southeast Asia Resource Centre on Sexuality]
* [http://www.educatedearth.net/video.php?id=3940 MRI Video of Human Copulation]
* {{Cite episode|airdate=13 February 2006 |title=Naked Science: What's Sexy? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTfBQtVFhXo |series-no=2 |number=1 |series=Naked Science | series-link=Naked Science |network=National Geographic Channel }}

{{Sex (biology)}}
{{Human sexuality and sexology}}
{{Human sexuality}}
{{Sexual ethics}}
{{Sexual urban legends}}




[[Category:Human sexuality| ]]

Human sexuality

2021-06-19T22:59:24Z

Quantumhusky:

{{imported|Wikipedia}}

{{about|human sexual anatomy, sexuality and perceptions|information specifically about sexual activities|Human sexual activity}}
{{Redirect|Sexuality|sexual behavior among other animals|Animal sexual behaviour|other uses|Sexuality (disambiguation)}}
{{For|the book|Human Sexuality (book)}}
{{short description|The way people experience and express themselves sexually}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2019}}
{{Close relationships |emotions}}
'''Human [[sexuality]]''' is the way people experience and express themselves [[Human sexual activity|sexually]].<ref name="Cavendish">{{cite book|title=Sex and Society, Volume 2|publisher=[[Marshall Cavendish]]|isbn=978-0-7614-7907-9|year=2010|page=384|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YtsxeWE7VD0C&pg=PA384|quote=The term human sexuality broadly refers to how people experience and express themselves as sexual beings.}}</ref><ref name="Ferrante">{{cite book|author=Joan Ferrante|title=Sociology: A Global Perspective|publisher=[[Cengage Learning]]|isbn=978-1-285-74646-3|year=2014|page=207|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Au4bCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA207|quote=Sexuality encompasses all the ways people experience and express themselves as sexual beings.}}</ref> This involves [[biological]], [[erotic]], [[Physical intimacy|physical]], [[Emotional intimacy|emotional]], [[social]], or [[Spirituality|spiritual]] feelings and behaviors.<ref name="S. Greenberg">{{cite book|first1=Jerrold S. |last1=Greenberg|first2=Clint E. |last2=Bruess |first3=Sara B. |last3=Oswalt|title=Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality|publisher=[[Jones & Bartlett Publishers]]|isbn=978-1-284-08154-1|year=2016|pages=4–10|access-date=21 June 2017|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8iarCwAAQBAJ&pg=PA4|quote=Human sexuality is a part of your total personality. It involves the interrelationship of biological, psychological, and sociocultural dimensions. [...] It is the total of our physical, emotional, and spiritual responses, thoughts, and feelings.}}</ref><ref name="Bolin">{{cite book|first1=Anne |last1=Bolin |first2=Patricia |last2=Whelehan|title=Human Sexuality: Biological, Psychological, and Cultural Perspectives|publisher=[[Taylor & Francis]]|isbn=978-0-7890-2671-2|year=2009|pages=32–42|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qrPHYok19v8C&pg=PA32}}</ref> Because it is a broad term, which has varied with historical contexts over time, it lacks a precise definition.<ref name="Bolin"/> The biological and physical aspects of sexuality largely concern the [[Human reproduction|human reproductive functions]], including the [[human sexual response cycle]].<ref name="S. Greenberg"/><ref name="Bolin"/>

Someone's [[sexual orientation]] is their pattern of sexual interest in the opposite or same sex.<ref name="AmPsycholAssn-whatis">{{cite web |title=Sexual orientation, homosexuality and bisexuality |publisher=[[American Psychological Association]] |access-date=10 August 2013 |url=http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx |archive-date=8 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130808032050/http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/sexual-orientation.aspx}}</ref> Physical and emotional aspects of sexuality include bonds between individuals that are expressed through profound feelings or physical manifestations of [[Romance (love)|love]], trust, and care. Social aspects deal with the effects of human [[society]] on one's sexuality, while spirituality concerns an individual's spiritual connection with others. Sexuality also affects and is affected by cultural, political, legal, philosophical, [[morality|moral]], [[ethical]], and religious aspects of life.<ref name="S. Greenberg"/><ref name="Bolin"/>

Interest in sexual activity typically increases when an individual reaches [[puberty]].<ref>Carlson, Neil R. and C. Donald Heth. "Psychology: the Science of Behaviour." 4th Edition. Toronto: Pearson Canada Inc., 2007. 684.</ref> Although no single theory on the cause of sexual orientation has yet gained widespread support, there is considerably more evidence supporting nonsocial causes of sexual orientation than social ones, especially for males. Hypothesized social causes are supported by only weak evidence, distorted by numerous confounding factors.<ref name=Bailey16>{{cite journal|last1=Bailey|first1=J. Michael|last2=Vasey|first2=Paul|last3=Diamond|first3=Lisa|last4=Breedlove|first4=S. Marc|last5=Vilain|first5=Eric|last6=Epprecht|first6=Marc|title=Sexual Orientation, Controversy, and Science|journal=Psychological Science in the Public Interest|date=2016|volume=17|issue=2|pages=45–101|doi=10.1177/1529100616637616|pmid=27113562|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301639075|doi-access=free}}</ref> This is [[further]] supported by cross-cultural evidence, because cultures that are very tolerant of homosexuality do not have significantly higher rates of it.<ref name=LeVay>{{cite book |last=LeVay |first=Simon |date=2017 |title=Gay, Straight, and the Reason Why: The Science of Sexual Orientation |page=19 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HmQFFfa03nkC |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=9780199752966 }}</ref><ref name=Balthazart>{{cite book |last=Balthazart |first=Jacques |date=2012 |title=The Biology of Homosexuality |pages=13–14 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3fjGjlcVINkC |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=9780199838820 }}</ref>

Evolutionary perspectives on human coupling, reproduction and [[reproduction strategies]], and [[social learning theory]] provide further views of sexuality.<ref>''[https://www.researchgate.net/profile/David_Buss/publication/14715297_Sexual_Strategies_Theory_An_Evolutionary_Perspective_on_Human_Mating/links/0deec5181791b73d35000000/Sexual-Strategies-Theory-An-Evolutionary-Perspective-on-Human-Mating.pdf Sexual Strategies Theory: An Evolutionary Perspective on Human Mating]'' by David M. Buss and David P. Schmitt</ref> Sociocultural aspects of sexuality include [[History of human sexuality|historical developments]] and [[Religion and sexuality|religious beliefs]]. Some cultures have been described as [[sexually repressive]]. The study of sexuality also includes [[Individual|human identity]] within social groups, [[Sexually transmitted diseases|sexually transmitted infections]] (STIs/STDs), and [[birth control]] methods.

{{TOC limit|3}}

==Development==
===Sexual orientation===
{{Main|Sexual orientation}}

There is considerably more evidence supporting innate causes of sexual orientation than learned ones, especially for males. This evidence includes the cross-cultural correlation of homosexuality and childhood [[gender nonconformity]], moderate genetic influences found in [[twin studies]], evidence for prenatal hormonal effects on brain organization, the fraternal birth order effect, and the finding that in rare cases where infant males were raised as girls due to physical deformity, they nevertheless turned out attracted to females. Hypothesized social causes are supported by only weak evidence, distorted by numerous confounding factors.<ref name=Bailey16 />

Cross-cultural evidence also leans more toward non-social causes. Cultures that are very tolerant of homosexuality do not have significantly higher rates of it. Homosexual behavior is relatively common among boys in British single-sex boarding schools, but adult Britons who attended such schools are no more likely to engage in homosexual behavior than those who did not. In an extreme case, the [[Sambia people]] ritually require their boys to engage in homosexual behavior during adolescence before they have any access to females, yet most of these boys become heterosexual.<ref name=LeVay/><ref name=Balthazart/>

It is not fully understood why genes causing homosexuality persist in the gene pool. One hypothesis involves [[kin selection]], suggesting that homosexuals invest heavily enough in their relatives to offset the cost of not reproducing as much directly. This has not been supported by studies in Western cultures, but several studies in [[Samoa]] have found some support for this hypothesis. Another hypothesis involves [[Sexual conflict|sexually antagonistic]] genes, which cause homosexuality when expressed in males but increase reproduction when expressed in females. Studies in both Western and non-Western cultures have found support for this hypothesis.<ref name=Bailey16/><ref name=BussCh5>{{cite book |last=Buss |first=David |date=2019 |title=Evolutionary Psychology: The New Science of the Mind |chapter=Men's Long-Term Mating Strategies|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Sn6JDwAAQBAJ |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9780429590061 }}</ref>

===Gender differences===
{{see also|Sex differences in psychology#Sexual behavior}}

Psychological theories exist regarding the development and expression of gender differences in human sexuality. A number of them (including [[neo-analytic]] theories, [[sociobiological]] theories, [[social learning theory]], [[social role theory]], and [[script theory]]) agree in predicting that men should be more approving of casual sex (sex happening outside a stable, committed relationship such as [[marriage]]) and should also be more [[promiscuous]] (have a higher number of sexual partners) than women. These theories are mostly consistent with observed differences in males' and females' attitudes toward casual sex before marriage in the United States. Other aspects of human sexuality, such as sexual satisfaction, incidence of [[oral sex]], and attitudes toward [[homosexuality]] and [[masturbation]], show little to no observed difference between males and females. Observed gender differences regarding the number of sexual partners are modest, with males tending to have slightly more than females.<ref name="Oliver & Hyde">{{cite book |last1=Oliver |first1=Mary Beth |last2=Hyde |first2=Janet S. |editor1-last=Baumeister |editor1-first=Roy F. |title=Social Psychology and Human Sexuality: Essential Readings |date=2001 |publisher=Psychology Press |isbn=978-1-84169-019-3 |pages=29–43 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2qsKNaqIsuUC&pg=PA29 |chapter=Gender Differences in Sexuality: A Meta-Analysis}}</ref>

==Biological and physiological aspects==
{{main|Human reproductive system}}
Like other [[mammal]]s, humans are primarily grouped into either the [[male]] or [[female]] sex,<ref name="Leonard2010">{{cite book | last =Leonard | first =Janet | author-link =Janet L. Leonard | title =The Evolution of Primary Sexual Characters in Animals | publisher =Oxford University Press | date =18 June 2010 | page =552 | url ={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=PgtXj5R6OfMC }} | isbn =978-0-19-532555-3 }}</ref> with a small proportion (around 1% or 0.018%<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Sax|first=Leonard|date=August 2002|title=How common is intersex? a response to Anne Fausto-Sterling|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12476264/|journal=Journal of Sex Research|volume=39|issue=3|pages=174–178|doi=10.1080/00224490209552139|issn=0022-4499|pmid=12476264|s2cid=33795209}}</ref>) of [[intersex]] individuals, for whom sexual classification may not be as clear.<ref>{{cite book | author = Fausto-Sterling, Anne | author-link = Anne Fausto-Sterling | year = 2000 | title = Sexing the Body: Gender Politics and the Construction of Sexuality | location = New York | publisher = Basic Books | isbn = 978-0-465-07713-7 |page=51 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=-976qhsz7A4C}}</ref>

The biological aspects of humans' sexuality deal with the reproductive system, the [[human sexual response cycle|sexual response cycle]], and the factors that affect these aspects. They also deal with the influence of biological factors on other aspects of sexuality, such as organic and neurological responses,<ref>Ellen Ross, Rayna Rapp Sex and Society: A Research Note from Social [[History]] and Anthropology Comparative Studies in Society and History, Vol. 23, No. 1 (Jan. 1981), pp. 51–72</ref> heredity, hormonal issues, gender issues, and sexual dysfunction.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007">{{Cite book|last=Rathus|first=Spencer A. |title=Human sexuality in a world of diversity |date=2008 |publisher=Pearson/A & B |author2=Jeffrey S. Nevid |author3=Lois Fichner-Rathus |isbn=978-0-205-53291-9 |edition=7th |location=Boston |oclc=123539338}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

===Physical anatomy and reproduction===
Males and females are anatomically similar; this extends to some degree to the [[development of the reproductive system]]. As adults, they have different reproductive mechanisms that enable them to perform sexual acts and to reproduce. Men and women react to sexual stimuli in a similar fashion with minor differences. Women have a monthly reproductive cycle, whereas the male sperm production cycle is more continuous.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite book|title=Human Sexuality Today|author=King, Bruce M.|year=2013|isbn=978-0-13-604245-7}}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|isbn = 0791441334|title = Perspectives on Human Sexuality|last1 = Bolin|first1 = Anne|last2 = Whelehan|first2 = Patricia|date = January 1999}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|isbn = 978-1285454313|title = Life-Span Human Development|last1 = Sigelman|first1 = Carol K.|last2 = Rider|first2 = Elizabeth A.|date = 26 February 2014}}</ref>

====Brain====
The [[hypothalamus]] is the most important part of the brain for sexual functioning. This is a small area at the base of the brain consisting of several groups of nerve cell bodies that receives input from the limbic system. Studies have shown that within lab animals, the destruction of certain areas of the hypothalamus causes the elimination of sexual behavior.<ref name="ReferenceA" /> The hypothalamus is important because of its relationship to the [[pituitary gland]], which lies beneath it. The pituitary gland secretes hormones that are produced in the hypothalamus and itself. The four important sexual hormones are [[oxytocin]], [[prolactin]], [[follicle-stimulating hormone]], and [[luteinizing hormone]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the "[[love]] hormone,"<ref name="Sigelman452" /> is released in both sexes during sexual intercourse when an [[orgasm]] is achieved.<ref name="Hornstein" /> Oxytocin has been suggested as critical to the thoughts and behaviors required to maintain close relationships.<ref name="Sigelman452">{{cite book| last1 = Sigelman |first1=Carol |last2= Rider |first2=Elizabeth | year = 2011 | title =Life-Span Human Development| location = Boston| publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | page = 452 |isbn = 978-1-111-34273-9| url =https://books.google.com/books?id=8smBuRecmDsC&pg=PT480}}</ref><ref name="Hornstein">{{cite book| last1 = Hornstein |first1=Theresa |last2=Schwerin |first2=Jeri | year = 2012 | title = Biology of Women | location = Boston | publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | page = 205 | isbn = 978-1-285-40102-7| url =https://books.google.com/books?id=ibgKAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA205}}</ref>{{verification needed|date=February 2016}} The hormone is also released in women when they give birth or are breastfeeding.<ref name="Smith">{{cite book | author = Smith, Linda J. | year = 2010 | title = Impact of Birthing Practices on Breastfeeding | location = Burlington, MA | publisher = [[Jones & Bartlett Learning|Jones & Bartlett]] | page = 158 | isbn = 978-0-7637-6374-9 | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=vUncnT6o4k4C&pg=PA158}}</ref> Both prolactin and oxytocin stimulate milk production in women.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is responsible for ovulation in women, which acts by triggering egg maturity; in men it stimulates sperm production.<ref>{{cite book| last1 = Hyde|first1=Janet|author-link1=Janet Shibley Hyde|last2=DeLamater|first2=John|author-link2=John DeLamater| last3=Byers|first3=Sandra | year = 2013 | title=Understanding Human Sexuality | edition = 5th Canadian | location = Whitby, ON, CAN | publisher = McGraw-Hill Ryerson | isbn=978-0-07-032972-0 | pages=100, 102ff }}</ref> Luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation, which is the release of a mature egg.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

====Male anatomy and reproductive system====
{{main|Human male reproductive system}}

Males also have both internal and external genitalia that are responsible for procreation and sexual intercourse. Production of spermatozoa (sperm) is also cyclic, but unlike the female ovulation cycle, the sperm production cycle is constantly producing millions of sperm daily.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

=====External male anatomy=====
[[File:Penis with Labels.jpg|thumb|upright|External male genitals (depilated).]]


The male genitalia are the penis and the scrotum. The penis provides a passageway for sperm and urine. An average-sized flaccid penis is about {{convert|3+3/4|inch|cm|abbr=out}} in length and {{convert|1+1/5|in|cm|abbr=out}} in diameter. When erect, the average penis is between {{convert|4+1/2|in|cm|abbr=out}} to {{convert|6|in|cm|abbr=out}} in length and {{convert|1+1/2|in|cm|abbr=out}} in diameter. The penis's internal structures consist of the [[shaft (penis)|shaft]], [[glans]], and the [[root]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The shaft of the penis consists of three cylindrical bodies of spongy tissue filled with blood vessels along its length. Two of these bodies lie side by side in the upper portion of the penis called corpora cavernosa. The third, called the [[corpus spongiosum]], is a tube that lies centrally beneath the others and expands at the end to form the tip of the penis (glans).<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://www.innerbody.com/image/repmov.html |title=Male Reproductive System – Explore Anatomy with Detailed Pictures |publisher=Innerbody.com |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref>

The raised rim at the border of the shaft and glans is called the corona. The urethra runs through the shaft, providing an exit for sperm and urine. The root consists of the expanded ends of the cavernous bodies, which fan out to form the crura and attach to the pubic bone and the expanded end of the spongy body (bulb). The root is surrounded by two muscles: the [[bulbocavernosus muscle]] and the [[ischiocavernosus muscle]]. These aid urination and ejaculation. The penis has a [[foreskin]] that typically covers the glans; this is sometimes removed by [[circumcision]] for medical, religious or cultural reasons.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} In the scrotum, the testicles are held away from the body, one possible reason for this is so sperm can be produced in an environment slightly lower than normal body temperature.<ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Drew|first1=Liam|title=The Scrotum Is Nuts|url=http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/science/2013/07/are_testicles_external_for_cooling_galloping_display_or_something_else.1.html|access-date=3 July 2015|magazine=[[Slate (magazine)|Slate]]|date=8 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Madaras|first1=Lynda Madaras with Area|title=The what's happening to my body? book for boys|date=2008|publisher=Newmarket|location=New York|isbn=978-1-55704-765-6|edition=Rev.|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zC1g5gdJc_kC&pg=PA33}}</ref>

=====Internal male anatomy=====

Male internal reproductive structures are the testicles, the duct system, the prostate and seminal vesicles, and the [[bulbourethral gland|Cowper's gland]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The testicles (male gonads), are where sperm and male hormones are produced. Millions of sperm are produced daily in several hundred seminiferous tubules. Cells called the [[Leydig cell]]s lie between the tubules; these produce hormones called androgens; these consist of [[testosterone]] and [[inhibin]]. The testicles are held by the spermatic cord, which is a tubelike structure containing blood vessels, nerves, the vas deferens, and a muscle that helps to raise and lower the testicles in response to temperature changes and sexual arousal, in which the testicles are drawn closer to the body.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Sperm gets transported through a four-part duct system. The first part of this system is the [[epididymis]]. The testicles converge to form the [[seminiferous tubules]], coiled tubes at the top and back of each testicle. The second part of the duct system is the [[vas deferens]], a muscular tube that begins at the lower end of the epididymis.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The vas deferens passes upward along the side of the testicles to become part of the spermatic cord.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> The expanded end is the ampulla, which stores sperm before ejaculation. The third part of the duct system is the ejaculatory ducts, which are {{convert|1|in|cm|abbr=out|adj=on}}-long paired tubes that pass through the prostate gland, where semen is produced.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The prostate gland is a solid, chestnut-shaped organ that surrounds the first part of the urethra, which carries urine and semen.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}<ref name="ReferenceB"/> Similar to the female G-spot, the prostate provides sexual stimulation and can lead to [[orgasm]] through [[anal sex]].<ref name="Rosenthal">{{cite book |first=Martha |last= Rosenthal| title = Human Sexuality: From Cells to Society | publisher =[[Cengage Learning]]|year = 2012|pages=133–135| isbn = 978-0-618-75571-4|url =https://books.google.com/books?id=d58z5hgQ2gsC&pg=PT153}}</ref>

The prostate gland and the seminal vesicles produce seminal fluid that is mixed with sperm to create semen.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The prostate gland lies under the bladder and in front of the rectum. It consists of two [[Portal:Main|main]] zones: the inner zone that produces secretions to keep the lining of the male urethra moist and the outer zone that produces seminal fluids to facilitate the passage of semen.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> The seminal vesicles secrete fructose for sperm activation and mobilization, prostaglandins to cause uterine contractions that aid movement through the uterus, and bases that help neutralize the acidity of the vagina. The Cowper's glands, or bulbourethral glands, are two pea-sized structures beneath the prostate.

====Female anatomy and reproductive system====
{{Main|Human female reproductive system}}

=====External female anatomy=====

The mons veneris, also known as the [[Mons pubis|Mound of Venus]], is a soft layer of fatty tissue overlaying the pubic bone.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Hyde |last2=DeLamater |last3=Byers|title=Understanding Human Sexuality 5th Canadian ed.|year=2012 |isbn=978-0-07-032972-0|page=78}}</ref> Following puberty, this area grows in size. It has many nerve endings and is sensitive to stimulation.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The labia minora and labia majora are collectively known as the lips. The labia majora are two elongated folds of skin extending from the mons to the perineum. Its outer surface becomes covered with hair after puberty. In between the labia majora are the labia minora, two hairless folds of skin that meet above the clitoris to form the clitoral hood, which is highly sensitive to touch. The labia minora become engorged with blood during sexual stimulation, causing them to swell and turn red.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The labia minora are composed of connective tissues that are richly supplied with blood vessels which cause a pinkish appearance. Near the anus, the labia minora merge with the labia majora.<ref name="innerbody.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.innerbody.com/image/repfov.html |title=Female Reproductive System – Anatomy Pictures and Information |publisher=Innerbody.com |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref> In a sexually unstimulated state, the labia minora protects the vaginal and urethral opening by covering them.<ref>''Human Reproductive Biology'' by Mark M. Jones (2012), p. 63.</ref> At the base of the labia minora are the [[Bartholin's glands]], which add a few drops of an alkaline fluid to the vagina via ducts; this fluid helps to counteract the acidity of the outer vagina since sperm cannot live in an acidic environment.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The clitoris is developed from the same embryonic tissue as the penis; it or its [[Clitoral glans|glans]] alone consists of as many (or more in some cases) nerve endings as the human penis or glans penis, making it extremely sensitive to touch.<ref name="Francoeur">{{cite book |last=Francoeur |first=Robert T. |year=2000 |title=The Complete Dictionary of Sexology |publisher=The Continuum Publishing Company |page=[https://archive.org/details/completedictiona0000unse_w1u0/page/180 180] |isbn=978-0-8264-0672-9 |url=https://archive.org/details/completedictiona0000unse_w1u0/page/180 }}</ref><ref name="Carroll">{{cite book | title =Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity | publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] | year = 2009 | page = 118 | access-date =23 June 2012 | url = {{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=5f8mQx7ULs4C |}} |isbn =978-0-495-60274-3 | first = Janell L. | last = Carroll}}</ref><ref name="Can't feel">{{cite web | title = I'm a woman who cannot feel pleasurable sensations during intercourse | publisher = [[Go Ask Alice!]] | date = 8 October 2004| access-date = 13 September 2012|url=http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/im-woman-who-cannot-feel-pleasurable-sensations-during-intercourse |archive-date= 7 January 2011|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110107184029/http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/3229.html}}</ref> The clitoral glans, which is a small, elongated erectile structure, has only one known function—sexual sensations. It is the female's most sensitive [[erogenous zone]] and the [[Portal:Main|main]] source of orgasm in women.<ref name="Clitoris">{{cite web|title=I Want a Better Orgasm!|website=[[WebMD]]|access-date=18 August 2011|url=http://www.webmd.com/sex/want-better-orgasms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113132443/http://www.webmd.com/sex/want-better-orgasms|archive-date=13 January 2009}}</ref><ref name="Flaherty">{{cite book|first1=Joseph A.|last1=Flaherty|first2=John Marcell|last2=Davis|first3=Philip G.|last3=Janicak|title=Psychiatry: Diagnosis & therapy. A Lange clinical manual|isbn=978-0-8385-1267-8|publisher=Appleton & Lange (Original from Northwestern University)|year=1993|page=[https://archive.org/details/psychiatrydiagno00flah/page/217 217]|url=https://archive.org/details/psychiatrydiagno00flah/page/217|quote=The amount of time of sexual arousal needed to reach orgasm is variable—and usually much longer—in women than in men; thus, only 20–30% of women attain a coital climax. b. Many women (70–80%) require manual clitoral stimulation...}}</ref><ref name="Kenneth Mah">{{cite journal | first1 = Kenneth | last1 = Mah | first2 = Yitzchak M | last2 = Binik | title = The nature of human orgasm: a critical review of major trends | journal = [[Clinical Psychology Review]] | volume = 21 | issue = 6 | pages = 823–856 |date=7 January 2001 | pmid = 11497209| doi = 10.1016/S0272-7358(00)00069-6 | quote=Women rated clitoral stimulation as at least somewhat more important than vaginal stimulation in achieving orgasm; only about 20% indicated that they did not require additional clitoral stimulation during intercourse.}}</ref><ref name="Kammerer-Doak">{{cite journal | first1 = Dorothy | last1 = Kammerer-Doak | first2 = Rebecca G. | last2 = Rogers | title = Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction | journal = Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America | volume = 35 | issue = 2 | pages = 169–183 |date=June 2008 | pmid = 18486835 | doi = 10.1016/j.ogc.2008.03.006 | quote=Most women report the inability to achieve orgasm with vaginal intercourse and require direct clitoral stimulation ... About 20% have coital climaxes...}}</ref> Thick secretions called [[smegma]] collect around the clitoris.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The vaginal opening and the urethral opening are only visible when the labia minora are parted. These openings have many nerve endings that make them sensitive to touch. They are surrounded by a ring of sphincter muscles called the [[bulbocavernosus muscle]]. Underneath this muscle and on opposite sides of the vaginal opening are the vestibular bulbs, which help the vagina grip the penis by swelling with blood during arousal. Within the vaginal opening is the [[hymen]], a thin membrane that partially covers the opening in many [[Virginity|virgins]]. Rupture of the hymen has been historically considered the loss of one's virginity, though, by modern standards, loss of virginity is considered to be the first sexual intercourse. The hymen can be ruptured by activities other than sexual intercourse. The urethral opening connects to the bladder with the urethra; it expels urine from the bladder. This is located below the clitoris and above the vaginal opening.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The [[breast]]s are the subcutaneous tissues on the front thorax of the female body.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Though they are not technically part of a woman's sexual anatomy, they do have roles in both sexual pleasure and reproduction.<ref name=Lehmiller>{{cite book |last=Lehmiller |first=Justin |date=2018 |title=The Psychology of Human Sexuality |edition=Second |pages=74–75 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JXJGDwAAQBAJ |publisher=John Wiley & Sons Ltd |isbn=9781119164739 }}</ref> Breasts are modified sweat glands made up of fibrous tissues and fat that provide support and contain nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Their main purpose is to provide milk to a developing infant. Breasts develop during puberty in response to an increase in estrogen. Each adult breast consists of 15 to 20 milk-producing [[mammary glands]], irregularly shaped lobes that include [[alveolar gland]]s and a lactiferous duct leading to the nipple. The lobes are separated by dense connective tissues that support the glands and attach them to the tissues on the underlying pectoral muscles.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Other connective tissue, which forms dense strands called suspensory ligaments, extends inward from the skin of the breast to the pectoral tissue to support the weight of the breast.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> Heredity and the quantity of fatty tissue determine the size of the breasts.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Men typically find female breasts attractive<ref>{{cite book |last=Buss |first=David |date=2019 |title=Evolutionary Psychology: The New Science of the Mind |edition=Sixth |chapter=Men's Long-Term Mating Strategies|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Sn6JDwAAQBAJ |publisher=Routledge |isbn=9780429590061 }}</ref> and this holds true for a variety of cultures.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Jan Havlíček |author2=Vít Třebický |author3=Jaroslava Varella Valentova |author4=Karel Kleisner |author5=Robert Mbe Akoko |author6=Jitka Fialová |author7=Rosina Jash |author8=Tomáš Kočnar |author9=Kamila Janaina Pereira |author10=Zuzana Štěrbová |author11=Marco Antonio Correa Varella |author12=Jana Vokurková |author13=Ernest Vunan |author14=S Craig Roberts |title=Men's preferences for women's breast size and shape in four cultures |journal=Evolution and Human Behavior |date=2017|volume=38 |issue=2 |pages=217–226 |doi=10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2016.10.002 |hdl=1893/24421 |hdl-access=free}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |author=Barnaby J Dixson |author2=Paul L Vasey |author3=Katayo Sagata |author4=Nokuthaba Sibanda |author5=Wayne L Linklater |author6=Alan F Dixson |title=Men's preferences for women's breast morphology in New Zealand, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea |journal=Archives of Sexual Behavior |date=2011 |volume=40 |issue=6 |pages=1271–1279 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/46404564 |doi=10.1007/s10508-010-9680-6|pmid=20862533 |s2cid=34125295}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|author=Frank W. Marlowe |title=Mate preferences among Hadza hunter-gatherers|journal=Human Nature |date=2004|volume=15|issue=4|pages=365–376|url=https://www.unl.edu/rhames/courses/readings/Marlowe-hadza-mate-selection-criteria.pdf|doi=10.1007/s12110-004-1014-8|pmid=26189412|s2cid=9584357}}</ref> In women, [[stimulation of nipples|stimulation of the nipple]] seems to result in activation of the brain's genital sensory cortex (the same region of the brain activated by stimulation of the clitoris, vagina, and cervix).<ref>{{cite journal |author=Barry R Komisaruk |author2=Nan Wise |author3=Eleni Frangos |author4=Wen-Ching Liu |author5=Kachina Allen |author6=Stuart Brody |title=Women's clitoris, vagina, and cervix mapped on the sensory cortex: fMRI evidence|journal=The Journal of Sexual Medicine |date=2011|volume=8|issue=10|pages=2822–2830|pmc=3186818|pmid=21797981|doi=10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02388.x}}</ref> This may be why many women find nipple stimulation arousing and why some women are able to orgasm by nipple stimulation alone.<ref name=Lehmiller/>

=====Internal female anatomy=====
{{main|Female reproductive system}}

The female internal reproductive organs are the [[vagina]], [[uterus]], [[Fallopian tube]]s, and [[ovary|ovaries]]. The vagina is a sheath-like canal that extends from the vulva to the cervix. It receives the penis during intercourse and serves as a depository for sperm. The vagina is also the [[birth canal]]; it can expand to {{convert|10|cm|inch|abbr=on}} during labor and delivery. The vagina is located between the [[bladder]] and the [[rectum]]. The vagina is normally collapsed, but during [[sexual arousal]] it opens, lengthens, and produces lubrication to allow the insertion of the penis. The vagina has three layered walls; it is a self-cleaning organ with natural bacteria that suppress the production of yeast.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The [[G-spot]], named after the [[Ernst Gräfenberg]] who first reported it in 1950, may be located in the front wall of the vagina and may cause orgasms. This area may vary in size and location between women; in some it may be absent. Various researchers dispute its structure or existence, or regard it as an extension of the clitoris.<ref name=Hines>{{cite journal |author=Hines T |date=August 2001 |title=The G-Spot: A modern gynecologic myth |journal=Am J Obstet Gynecol |volume=185 |issue=2 |pages=359–362 | doi=10.1067/mob.2001.115995 |pmid=11518892|s2cid=32381437 |url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/59ac3e423b824c8b64b2359c10a496730cd2a656 }}</ref><ref name="Balon, Segraves">{{cite book|first1=Richard |last1=Balon |first2=Robert Taylor |last2=Segraves|title=Clinical Manual of Sexual Disorders |publisher= [[American Psychiatric Association|American Psychiatric Pub]]|year=2009|access-date=24 January 2014|page=258|isbn=978-1-58562-905-3|url={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=YuP3Hb0TMLQC |}} }}</ref><ref name="Kilchevsky">{{cite journal|title=Is the Female G-Spot Truly a Distinct Anatomic Entity?|journal=[[The Journal of Sexual Medicine]]|volume= 9|date=January 2012 |pmid=22240236|doi=10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02623.x|lay-url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/19/g-spot-does-not-exist_n_1215822.html|lay-source=[[The Huffington Post]]|lay-date=19 January 2012 |last1=Kilchevsky |first1=A |last2=Vardi |first2=Y |last3=Lowenstein |first3=L |last4=Gruenwald |first4=I |issue=3|pages=719–726}}</ref>

The uterus or womb is a hollow, muscular organ where a fertilized egg (ovum) will implant itself and grow into a fetus.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The uterus lies in the pelvic cavity between the bladder and the [[bowel]], and above the vagina. It is usually positioned in a 90-degree angle tilting forward, although in about 20% of women it tilts backwards.<ref name="innerbody.com"/> The uterus has three layers; the innermost layer is the [[endometrium]], where the egg is implanted. During ovulation, this thickens for implantation. If implantation does not occur, it is sloughed off during menstruation. The cervix is the narrow end of the uterus. The broad part of the uterus is the [[fundus (uterus)|fundus]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

During [[ovulation]], the ovum travels down the Fallopian tubes to the uterus. These extend about {{convert|4|inch|cm|spell=in}} from both sides of the uterus. Finger-like projections at the ends of the tubes brush the ovaries and receive the ovum once it is released. The ovum then travels for three to four days to the uterus.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} After sexual intercourse, sperm swim up this funnel from the uterus. The lining of the tube and its secretions sustain the egg and the sperm, encouraging [[fertilization]] and nourishing the ovum until it reaches the uterus. If the ovum divides after fertilization, [[identical twins]] are produced. If separate eggs are fertilized by different sperm, the mother gives birth to non-identical or [[fraternal twins]].<ref name="innerbody.com"/>

The ovaries (female gonads), develop from the same embryonic tissue as the [[testicles]]. The ovaries are suspended by ligaments and are the source where ova are stored and developed before ovulation. The ovaries also produce female hormones [[progesterone]] and [[estrogen]]. Within the ovaries, each ovum is surrounded by other cells and contained within a capsule called a primary follicle. At puberty, one or more of these follicles are stimulated to mature on a monthly basis. Once matured, these are called [[Graafian follicles]].<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The female reproductive system does not produce the ova; about 60,000 ova are present at birth, only 400 of which will mature during the woman's lifetime.<ref name="innerbody.com"/>

Ovulation is based on a monthly cycle; the 14th day is the most fertile. On days one to four, menstruation and production of estrogen and progesterone decreases, and the endometrium starts thinning. The endometrium is sloughed off for the next three to six days. Once menstruation ends, the cycle begins again with an FSH surge from the pituitary gland. Days five to thirteen are known as the pre-ovulatory stage. During this stage, the pituitary gland secretes [[follicle-stimulating hormone]] (FSH). A negative feedback loop is enacted when estrogen is secreted to inhibit the release of FSH. Estrogen thickens the endometrium of the uterus. A surge of [[Luteinizing Hormone]] (LH) triggers ovulation.

On day 14, the LH surge causes a Graafian follicle to surface the ovary. The follicle ruptures and the ripe ovum is expelled into the abdominal cavity. The fallopian tubes pick up the ovum with the [[Fimbriae of uterine tube|fimbria]]. The cervical mucus changes to aid the movement of sperm. On days 15 to 28—the post-ovulatory stage, the Graafian follicle—now called the [[corpus luteum]]—secretes estrogen. Production of progesterone increases, inhibiting LH release. The endometrium thickens to prepare for implantation, and the ovum travels down the Fallopian tubes to the uterus. If the ovum is not fertilized and does not implant, menstruation begins.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

===Sexual response cycle===
The sexual response cycle is a model that describes the physiological responses that occur during sexual activity. This model was created by [[William Masters]] and [[Virginia E. Johnson|Virginia Johnson]]. According to Masters and Johnson, the human sexual response cycle consists of four phases; excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution, also called the EPOR model. During the excitement phase of the EPOR model, one attains the intrinsic motivation to have sex. The plateau phase is the precursor to orgasm, which may be mostly biological for men and mostly psychological for women. Orgasm is the release of tension, and the resolution period is the unaroused state before the cycle begins again.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The male sexual response cycle starts in the excitement phase; two centers in the spine are responsible for erections. Vasoconstriction in the penis begins, the heart rate increases, the scrotum thickens, the spermatic cord shortens, and the testicles become engorged with blood. In the plateau phase, the penis increases in diameter, the testicles become more engorged, and the Cowper's glands secrete pre-seminal fluid. The orgasm phase, during which rhythmic contractions occur every 0.8 seconds{{Verify source|date=May 2012}}, consists of two phases; the emission phase, in which contractions of the vas deferens, prostate, and seminal vesicles encourage ejaculation, which is the second phase of orgasm. Ejaculation is called the expulsion phase; it cannot be reached without an orgasm. In the resolution phase, the male is now in an unaroused state consisting of a [[Refractory period (sex)|refractory (rest) period]] before the cycle can begin. This rest period may increase with age.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

The female sexual response begins with the excitement phase, which can last from several minutes to several hours. Characteristics of this phase include increased heart and respiratory rate, and an elevation of blood pressure. Flushed skin or blotches of redness may occur on the chest and back; breasts increase slightly in size and nipples may become hardened and erect. The onset of [[vasocongestion]] results in swelling of the clitoris, labia minora, and vagina. The muscle that surrounds the vaginal opening tightens and the uterus elevates and grows in size. The vaginal walls begin to produce a lubricating liquid. The second phase, called the plateau phase, is characterized primarily by the intensification of the changes begun during the excitement phase. The plateau phase extends to the brink of orgasm, which initiates the resolution stage; the reversal of the changes begun during the excitement phase. During the orgasm stage the heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and breathing rates peak. The pelvic muscle near the vagina, the anal sphincter, and the uterus contract. Muscle contractions in the vaginal area create a high level of pleasure, though all orgasms are centered in the clitoris.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}<ref>{{cite web|last=Intimacy |first=Sinclair |url=http://health.howstuffworks.com/sexual-health/sexuality/sexual-response-dictionary1.htm |title=Discovery Health "Sexual Response" |publisher=Health.howstuffworks.com |date=25 April 2005 |access-date=18 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.proplusmedical.com/pages.html?pages_id=8 |title=Female Sexual Response Cycle |publisher=Proplusmedical.com |access-date=18 February 2013}}</ref><ref name="Koedt70">{{cite web |last = Koedt |first = Anne |title = The Myth of the Vaginal Orgasm |publisher = Chicago Women's Liberation Union |year = 1970 |url = http://www.cwluherstory.org/myth-of-the-vaginal-orgasm.html |access-date = 18 November 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160819232224/http://www.cwluherstory.org/myth-of-the-vaginal-orgasm.html |archive-date = 19 August 2016 }}</ref>

===Sexual dysfunction and sexual problems===
{{main|Sexual dysfunction}}
Sexual disorders, according to the DSM-IV-TR, are disturbances in sexual desire and psycho-physiological changes that characterize the sexual response cycle and cause marked distress and interpersonal difficulty. The sexual dysfunctions is a result of physical or psychological disorders. The physical causes include hormonal imbalance, diabetes, heart disease and more. The psychological causes includes but are not limited to stress, anxiety, and depression.<ref>{{cite web|title=Female Sexual Dysfunction|url=http://www.webmd.com/women/guide/sexual-dysfunction-women|website=webmd.com|publisher=webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref> The sexual dysfunction affects men and women. There are four major categories of sexual problems for women: desire disorders, arousal disorders, orgasmic disorders, and sexual pain disorders.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The sexual desire disorder occurs when an individual lacks the sexual desire because of hormonal changes, depression, and pregnancy. The arousal disorder is a female sexual dysfunction. Arousal disorder means lack of vaginal lubrication. In addition, blood flow problems may affect arousal disorder. Lack of orgasm, also known as, anorgasmia is another sexual dysfunction in women. The anorgasmia occurs in women with psychological disorders such as guilt and anxiety that was caused by sexual assault. The last sexual disorder is the painful intercourse. The sexual disorder can be result of pelvic mass, scar tissue, sexually transmitted disease and more.<ref>{{cite web|title=Female Sexual Dysfunction|url=http://www.webmd.com/women/guide/sexual-dysfunction-women?page=2|website=webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref>

There are also three common sexual disorders for men including, sexual desire, ejaculation disorder, and erectile dysfunction. The lack of sexual desire in men is because of loss of libido, low testosterone. There are also psychological factors such as anxiety, and depression.<ref>{{cite web|title=Male Sexual Problems|url=http://www.webmd.com/men/guide/mental-health-male-sexual-problems?page=2|website=Webmd.com|access-date=2 December 2015}}</ref>
The ejaculation disorder has three types: retrograde ejaculation, retarded ejaculation, premature ejaculation. The erectile dysfunction is a disability to have and maintain an erection during intercourse.<ref>{{cite book|title=Our Bodies, Ourselves|date=2011|publisher=Boston Women's Health Book Collective|isbn=978-0-7432-5611-7|edition=35th|url=https://archive.org/details/ourbodiesoursel00bost}}</ref>

==Psychological aspects==


As one form of behavior, the psychological aspects of sexual expression have been studied in the context of emotional involvement, gender identity, intersubjective [[intimacy]], and Darwinian reproductive efficacy. Sexuality in humans generates profound emotional and psychological responses. Some theorists identify sexuality as the central source of human personality.<ref>{{cite book |author=John Russon |title=Bearing Witness to Epiphany: Persons, Things, and the Nature of Erotic Life |publisher=State University of New York Press |location=Albany |year=2009 |isbn=978-1-4384-2504-7 |author-link=John Russon }}</ref> Psychological studies of sexuality focus on psychological influences that affect sexual behavior and experiences.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007" />{{page needed|date=February 2016}} Early psychological analyses were carried out by [[Sigmund Freud]], who believed in a [[Psychoanalysis|psychoanalytic]] approach. He also proposed the concepts of [[psychosexual development]] and the [[Oedipus complex]], among other theories.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psychology.about.com/od/theoriesofpersonality/ss/psychosexualdev.htm |title=What is Psychosexual Development? |author= Cherry, Kendra|publisher=About.com |access-date=12 October 2009}}{{better source|date=February 2016}}{{better source|date=February 2016}}</ref>

Gender identity is a person's sense of their own [[gender]], whether male, female, or [[Non-binary gender|non-binary]].<ref name="MorrowMessinger">''Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression in Social Work Practice'', edited by Deana F. Morrow and Lori Messinger (2006, {{ISBN|0231501862}}), p. 8: "Gender identity refers to an individual's personal sense of identity as masculine or feminine, or some combination thereof."</ref> Gender identity can correlate with [[assigned sex]] at birth or can differ from it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hrc.org/resources/sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-terminology-and-definitions|title=Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Definitions |first=Human Rights|last=Campaign}}</ref> All societies have a set of gender categories that can serve as the basis of the formation of a person's [[social identity]] in relation to other members of society.<ref>V. M. Moghadam, ''Patriarchy and the politics of gender in modernising societies'', in ''International Sociology'', 1992: "All societies have gender systems."</ref>

Sexual behavior and intimate relationships are strongly influenced by a person's sexual orientation.<ref name="Coon, D. 2007">Coon, D., & Mitterer, J.O. (2007). Introduction to psychology: gateways to mind and behavior (11th ed.). Australia: [[Thomson/Wadsworth]].</ref>

Sexual orientation is an enduring pattern of [[Romance (love)|romantic]] or [[Sexual attraction|sexual]] attraction (or a combination of these) to persons of the opposite sex, same sex, or both sexes.<ref name="Coon, D. 2007"/> Heterosexual people are romantically/sexually attracted to the members of the opposite sex, gay and lesbian people are romantically/sexually attracted to people of the same sex, and those who are bisexual are romantically/sexually attracted to both sexes.<ref name="AmPsycholAssn-whatis"/>

The idea that homosexuality results from reversed gender roles is reinforced by the media's portrayal of male homosexuals as effeminate and female homosexuals as masculine.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} However, a person's conformity or non-conformity to gender stereotypes does not always predict sexual orientation. Society believes that if a man is masculine he is heterosexual, and if a man is feminine he is homosexual. There is no strong evidence that a homosexual or bisexual orientation must be associated with atypical gender roles. By the early 21st century, homosexuality was no longer considered to be a pathology. Theories have linked many factors, including genetic, anatomical, birth order, and hormones in the prenatal environment, to homosexuality.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Other than the need to procreate, there are many other reasons people have sex. According to one study conducted on college students (Meston & Buss, 2007), the four main reasons for sexual activities are; physical attraction, as a means to an end, to increase emotional connection, and to alleviate insecurity.<ref>{{cite book |title=Psychology |url=https://archive.org/details/psychology0000scha |url-access=registration |year=2011 |publisher=Worth Publishers |page=[https://archive.org/details/psychology0000scha/page/336 336]|author1=Daniel L. Schacter |author2=Daniel T. Gilbert |author3=Daniel M. Wegner }}</ref>

==Sexuality and age==
===Child sexuality===
{{Main|Child sexuality}}
Until [[Sigmund Freud]] published his ''[[Three Essays on the Theory of Sexuality]]'' in 1905, children were often regarded as [[Asexuality|asexual]], having no sexuality until later development. Sigmund Freud was one of the first researchers to take child sexuality seriously. His ideas, such as psychosexual development and the Oedipus conflict, have been much debated but acknowledging the existence of child sexuality was an important development.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008">Santrock, J.W. (2008). A Topical Approach to Life-Span Development (4th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.</ref>

Freud gave sexual drives an importance and centrality in human life, actions, and behavior; he said sexual drives exist and can be discerned in children from birth. He explains this in his theory of [[infantile sexuality]], and says sexual energy ([[libido]]) is the most important motivating force in adult life. Freud wrote about the importance of interpersonal relationships to one's sexual and emotional development. From birth, the mother's connection to the infant affects the infant's later capacity for pleasure and [[attachment theory|attachment]].<ref>{{cite journal | last1 = Bretherton | first1 = Inge | year = 1992 | title = The origins of attachment theory: John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth | url = http://cmapspublic2.ihmc.us/rid=1LQX400NM-RBVKH9-1KL6/the%20origins%20of%20attachment%20theory%20john%20bowlby%20and%20mary%20ainsworth.pdf | journal = Developmental Psychology | volume = 28 | issue = 5| pages = 759–775 | doi=10.1037/0012-1649.28.5.759}}</ref> Freud described two currents of emotional life; an affectionate current, including our bonds with the important people in our lives; and a sensual current, including our wish to gratify sexual impulses. During adolescence, a young person tries to integrate these two emotional currents.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Alcorn|first1=Jean-Michel Quinodoz; translated by David|title=Reading Freud: a chronological exploration of Freud's writings|date=2005|isbn=978-1-317-71050-9|page=165|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A8hdAgAAQBAJ&pg=PT165}}</ref>

[[Alfred Kinsey]] also examined child sexuality in his [[Kinsey Reports]]. Children are naturally curious about their bodies and sexual functions. For example, they wonder where babies come from, they notice the differences between males and females, and many engage in [[genital play]], which is often mistaken for masturbation. Child sex play, also known as [[playing doctor]], includes exhibiting or inspecting the genitals. Many children take part in some sex play, typically with siblings or friends.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008"/> Sex play with others usually decreases as children grow, but they may later possess romantic interest in their peers. Curiosity levels remain high during these years, but the main surge in sexual interest occurs in adolescence.<ref name="Santrock, J.W. 2008"/>

===Sexuality in late adulthood===
{{Main|Sexuality in older age}}
Adult sexuality originates in childhood. However, like many other human capacities, sexuality is not fixed, but matures and develops. A common stereotype associated with old people is that they tend to lose interest and the ability to engage in sexual acts once they reach late adulthood. This misconception is reinforced by Western popular culture, which often ridicules older adults who try to engage in sexual activities. Age does not necessarily change the need or desire to be sexually expressive or active. A couple in a long-term relationship may find that the frequency of their sexual activity decreases over time and the type of sexual expression may change, but many couples experience increased intimacy and love.<ref name=jrank>[http://family.jrank.org/pages/1532/Sexuality-in-Adulthood-Aging.html Sexuality in Adulthood – Aging], JRank Marriage and Family Encyclopedia, Net Industries</ref>

==Sociocultural aspects==
[[File:Leffler - WomensLib1970 WashingtonDC.jpg|thumb|right|450 px|A [[Second-wave feminism|Women's Liberation]] march in the U.S. Washington, DC, August 1970. March was from Farrugut Square to Lafayette Park.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.loc.gov/pictures/item/2003673992/ |title=Women's liberation march from Farrugut Square to Layfette (Lafayette Park) |publisher=Loc.gov |access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}]]
[[File:Demonstration, with Gay Liberation Front Banner, c1972 (7374381322).jpg|thumb|right|200 px|A [[Gay Liberation]] march in London, UK, ca. 1972. A Gay Liberation Front banner is visible. Location is believed to be Trafalgar Square.<ref>[http://archives.lse.ac.uk/Record.aspx?src=CalmView.Catalog&id=IMAGELIBRARY/1370]</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}]]

Human sexuality can be understood as part of the social life of humans, which is governed by implied rules of behavior and the status quo. This narrows the view to groups within a society.<ref name="Rathus, Spencer A. 2007"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} The socio-cultural context of society, including the effects of politics and the mass media, influences and forms social norms. Throughout history, social norms have been changing and continue to change as a result of movements such as the sexual revolution and the rise of [[feminism]].<ref name=Escoffier2003>{{cite book |editor=Escoffier, Jeffrey |title=Sexual Revolution |publisher=Running Press |year=2003 |isbn=978-1-56025-525-3 |url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9781560255253 }}</ref><ref name="Friedan">{{cite news|title=Betty Friedan, Who Ignited Cause in 'Feminine Mystique,' Dies at 85 |url=http://www-nc.nytimes.com/2006/02/05/national/05friedan.html |work=The New York Times |date=5 February 2006 |access-date=12 October 2009}}{{subscription}}</ref>

=== Sex education ===
The age and manner in which children are informed of issues of sexuality is a matter of sex education. The school systems in almost all developed countries have some form of sex education, but the nature of the issues covered varies widely. In some countries, such as Australia and much of Europe, age-appropriate sex education often begins in pre-school, whereas other countries leave sex education to the pre-teenage and teenage years.<ref>{{cite news|title=Think Sex |publisher=TheAge.com.au |access-date=11 October 2009|url=https://www.theage.com.au/news/education-news/think-sex/2006/05/28/1148754861223.html}}</ref> Sex education covers a range of topics, including the physical, mental, and social aspects of sexual behavior. Geographic location also plays a role in society's opinion of the appropriate age for children to learn about sexuality. According to ''TIME'' magazine and CNN,{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}} 74% of teenagers in the United States reported that their major sources of sexual information were their peers and the media, compared to 10% who named their parents or a sex education course.<ref name="ReferenceA" />{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

In the United States, most sex education programs encourage [[Abstinence-only sex education|abstinence]], the choice to restrain oneself from sexual activity. In contrast, [[comprehensive sex education]] aims to encourage students to take charge of their own sexuality and know how to have safe, healthy, and pleasurable sex if and when they choose to do so.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.guttmacher.org/sites/default/files/report_downloads/demystifying-data-handouts_0.pdf|title=A Definition of Comprehensive Sexuality Education|last=Panchaud|first=Christine|date=2016|website=Guttmacher Institute}}</ref>

Proponents for an abstinence-only education believe that teaching a comprehensive curriculum would encourage teenagers to have sex, while proponents for comprehensive sex education argue that many teenagers will have sex regardless and should be equipped with knowledge of how to have sex responsibly. According to data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, many teens who intend to be abstinent fail to do so, and when these teenagers do have sex, many do not use safe sex practices such as contraceptives.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Bearman|first=Peter|date=2001|title=Promising the Future: Virginity Pledges and First Intercourse|journal=American Journal of Sociology|volume=106|issue=4|pages=859–912|doi=10.1086/320295|s2cid=142684938|url=https://academiccommons.columbia.edu/doi/10.7916/D8ZG73VN/download}}</ref>

===Sexuality in history===
{{Main|History of human sexuality}}
{{one source | section|date=February 2016}}


Sexuality has been an important, vital part of human existence throughout history.<ref name="ReferenceC">{{cite book | author = Stearns, Peter N. | year = 2009| title = Sexuality in World History | isbn = 978-0-415-77777-3 }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} All civilizations have managed sexuality through sexual standards, representations, and behavior.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before the rise of agriculture, groups of hunter-gatherers and nomadic groups inhabited the world. These groups had less restrictive sexual standards that emphasized sexual pleasure and enjoyment, but with definite rules and constraints. Some underlying continuities or key regulatory standards contended with the tension between recognition of pleasure, interest, and the need to procreate for the sake of social order and economic survival. Hunter-gatherers also placed high value on certain types of sexual symbolism.

A common tension in hunter-gatherer societies is expressed in their art, which emphasized male sexuality and prowess, but also blurred gender lines in sexual matters. One example of these male-dominated portrayals is the [[Egyptian creation myth]], in which the sun god [[Atum]] masturbates in the water, creating the [[Nile River]]. In [[Sumerian religion|Sumerian]] myth, the gods' semen filled the [[Tigris]].<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Once agricultural societies emerged, the sexual framework shifted in ways that persisted for many millennia in much of Asia, Africa, Europe, and parts of the Americas. One common characteristic new to these societies was the collective supervision of sexual behavior due to urbanization and the growth of population and population density. Children would commonly witness parents having sex because many families shared the same sleeping quarters. Due to land ownership, determination of children's paternity became important, and society and family life became patriarchal.{{Citation needed|date=May 2020}} These changes in sexual ideology were used to control female sexuality and to differentiate standards by gender. With these ideologies, sexual possessiveness and increases in jealousy emerged.

While retaining the precedents of earlier civilizations, each classical civilization established a somewhat distinctive approach to gender, artistic expression of sexual beauty, and to behaviors such as homosexuality. Some of these distinctions are portrayed in sex manuals, which were also common among civilizations in China, Greece, Rome, Persia, and India; each has its own sexual history.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before the [[High Middle Ages]], homosexual acts appear to have been ignored or tolerated by the Christian church.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu">{{cite web|url=http://psychology.ucdavis.edu/rainbow/html/facts_mental_health.html |title=Homosexuality and Mental Health |publisher=Psychology.ucdavis.edu |access-date=30 June 2013}}</ref> During the 12th century, hostility toward homosexuality began to spread throughout religious and secular institutions. By the end of the 19th century, it was viewed as a pathology.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu"/>

During the beginning of the [[industrial revolution]] of the 18th and 19th centuries, many changes in sexual standards occurred. New artificial birth control devices such as the [[condom]] and [[diaphragm (contraceptive)|diaphragm]] were introduced. Doctors started claiming a new role in sexual matters, urging that their advice was crucial to sexual morality and health. New pornographic industries grew and Japan adopted its first laws against homosexuality. In Western societies, the definition of homosexuality was constantly changing; Western influence on other cultures became more prevalent. New contacts created serious issues around sexuality and sexual traditions. There were also major shifts in sexual behavior. During this period, puberty began occurring at younger ages, so a new focus on adolescence as a time of sexual confusion and danger emerged. There was a new focus on the purpose of marriage; it was increasing regarded as being for love rather than only for economics and reproduction.<ref name="ReferenceC"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

[[Havelock Ellis]] and Sigmund Freud adopted more accepting stances toward homosexuality; Ellis said homosexuality was inborn and therefore not immoral, not a disease, and that many homosexuals made significant contributions to society.<ref name="psychology.ucdavis.edu"/> Freud wrote that all human beings as capable of becoming either heterosexual or homosexual; neither orientation was assumed to be innate.<ref name="King, B. 2009">{{cite book | author = King, Bruce M. | year = 2009 | title = Human Sexuality Today | edition = 6th | location = Upper Saddle River, NJ| publisher = Pearson Education }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{page needed|date=February 2016}} According to Freud, a person's orientation depended on the resolution of the Oedipus complex. He said male homosexuality resulted when a young boy had an authoritarian, rejecting mother and turned to his father for love and affection, and later to men in general. He said female homosexuality developed when a girl loved her mother and identified with her father, and became fixated at that stage.<ref name="King, B. 2009"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

[[Alfred Kinsey]] initiated the modern era of sex research. He collected data from questionnaires given to his students at [[Indiana University]], but then switched to personal interviews about sexual behaviors. Kinsey and his colleagues sampled 5,300 men and 5,940 women. He found that most people masturbated, that many engaged in [[oral sex]], that women are capable of having multiple orgasms, and that many men had had some type of homosexual experience in their lifetimes. <ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

Before [[William Masters]], a physician, and [[Virginia E. Johnson|Virginia Johnson]], a [[behavioral scientist]], the study of anatomy and physiological studies of sex was still limited to experiments with laboratory animals. Masters and Johnson started to directly observe and record the physical responses in humans that are engaged in sexual activity under laboratory settings. They observed 10,000 episodes of sexual acts between 312 men and 382 women. This led to methods of treating clinical problems and abnormalities. Masters and Johnson opened the first sex therapy clinic in 1965. In 1970, they described their therapeutic techniques in their book, ''[[Human Sexual Inadequacy]]''.{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

In the first edition of The [[Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders]], the [[American Psychological Association|American Psychiatric Association]] classified homosexuality as a mental illness, and more specifically, a "sociopathic personality disturbance".<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal|last=Drescher|first=Jack|date=4 December 2015|title=Out of DSM: Depathologizing Homosexuality|journal=Behavioral Sciences|volume=5|issue=4|pages=565–575|doi=10.3390/bs5040565|issn=2076-328X|pmc=4695779|pmid=26690228}}</ref> This definition remained the professional understanding of homosexuality until 1973 when the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from their list of diagnoses for mental disorders.<ref name=":1" /> Through her research of heterosexual and homosexual men, [[Evelyn Hooker]] revealed that there was no correlation between homosexuality and psychological maladjustment,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/02/myth-buster|title=The myth buster|work=apa.org|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> and her findings played a pivotal role in shifting the scientific community away from the perspective that homosexuality was something that needed to be treated or cured.{{citation needed|date=October 2019}}

=== Sexuality, colonialism, and race ===
European conquerors/colonists found sexuality out of their norm about 1516 when [[Vasco Núñez de Balboa]], a Spanish explorer, discovered indigenous people in Central America with different sexual practices. Balboa found some indigenous men {{clarify|text=dressed up as women,|reason=It is unclear whether this means dressed in what the indigenes considered female attire or means dressed in what Balboa considered female attire.|date=April 2020}} resulting in him feeding forty of these men to his dogs for having different sexual practices. In North America and the United States, Europeans have used claims of sexual immorality to justify discrimination against racial and ethnic minorities.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Dictionary of American History|last=Turner|first=William B.|publisher=Charles Scribner's Sons|year=2003|location=New York, NY|pages=328–333}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=January 2020}}

Scholars also study the ways in which [[colonialism]] has affected sexuality today and argue that due to [[racism]] and [[slavery in the United States|slavery]] it has been dramatically changed from the way it had previously been understood.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3KBFhDytERkC|title=Women of Color and Feminism|last1=Rojas|first1=Maythee|date=2009|publisher=Seal Press|isbn=978-1-58005-272-6|edition=1st|ref=https://books.google.com/books?id=3KBFhDytERkC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false}}</ref>

In her book, ''Carnal Knowledge and Imperial Power: Gender, Race, and Morality in Colonial Asia'', Laura Stoler investigates how the Dutch used sexual control and gender-specific sexual sanctions to distinguish between the rulers from the ruled and enforce colonial domination onto the people of Indonesia.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Carnal Knowledge and Imperial Power: Gender, Race, and Morality in Colonial Asia|last=Stoler|first=Ann|publisher=University of California Press|year=2002}}</ref>

In America, there are 155 native tribes that are recorded to have embraced [[two-spirit]] people within their tribes, but the total number of tribes could be greater than what is documented.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Changing Ones: Third and Fourth Genders in Native North America|last=Roscoe|first=Will|publisher=Palgrave Macmillan|year=1998}}</ref> Two-spirit people were and still are members of communities who do not fall under Western gender categories of male and female, but rather under a "third gender" category.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Wilson|first=Trista|date=2011|journal=American Indian Law Review|volume=36|issue=1|pages=161–188|issn=0094-002X|jstor=41495705|title=Changed Embraces, Changes Embraced? Renouncing the Heterosexist Majority in Favor of a Return to Traditional Two-Spirit Culture}}</ref> This system of gender contradicts both the gender binary and the assertion that sex and gender are the same.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title=Becoming Two-Spirit: Gay Identity and Social Acceptance in Indian Country|last=Gilley|first=Brian|publisher=University of Nebraska Press|year=2006}}</ref> Instead of conforming to traditional roles of men and women, two-spirit fill a special niche in their communities.

For example, two-spirited people are commonly revered for possessing special wisdom and spiritual powers.<ref name=":0" /> Two-spirited people also can take part in marriages, either monogamous and polygamous ones.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Living the Spirit: a Gay American Indian Anthology|last=Roscoe|first=Will|publisher=St. Martins Press|year=1988}}</ref> Historically, European colonizers perceived relationships involving two-spirited people as homosexuality, and therefore believed in the moral inferiority of native people.<ref name=":0" /> In reaction, colonizers began to impose their own religious and social norms on indigenous communities, diminishing the role of two-spirit people in native cultures.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Jacobi|first=Jeffrey|date=2006|title=Two Spirits, Two Eras, Same Sex: For a Traditionalist Perspective on Native American Tribal Same-Sex Marriage Policy|journal=University of Michigan Journal of Law Reform}}</ref> Within reservations, the Religious Crime Code of the 1880s explicitly aimed to "aggressively attack Native sexual and marriage practices".<ref name=":0" /> The goal of colonizers was for native peoples to assimilate into Euro-American ideals of family, sexuality, gender expression, and more.<ref name=":0" />

The link between constructed sexual meanings and racial ideologies has been studied. According to Joane Nagel, sexual meanings are constructed to maintain racial-ethnic-national boundaries by the denigration of "others" and regulation of sexual behavior within the group. She writes, "both adherence to and deviation from such approved behaviors, define and reinforce racial, ethnic, and nationalist regimes".<ref name=Nagel>{{cite journal |author=Nagel, Joane |date=August 2000 |title=Ethnicity and Sexuality |journal=Annual Review of Sociology |volume=26 |pages=107–133 |doi=10.1146/annurev.soc.26.1.107|s2cid=145064276 |url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/ddb5a444cf727ad2f8209449dc14839ad38d025a }}</ref><ref name=Nagel2>{{cite journal|author=Nagel, Joane |year=2001 |title=Racial, Ethnic, and National Boundaries: Sexual Intersections and Symbolic Interactions |journal=Symbolic Interaction |volume=24 | issue = 2 |pages=123–139 |doi=10.1525/si.2001.24.2.123}}</ref> In the United States people of color face the effects of colonialism in different ways with stereotypes such as the Mammy, and Jezebel for Black women; [[Stereotypes of East Asians in the United States|lotus blossom, and dragon lady]] for Asian women; and the "spicy" Latina.<ref name="Mammy Jezebel and Sistahs on Racism.org">{{cite web|last1=Yarbrough|first1=Marilyn|last2=Bennet|first2=Crystal|title=Mammy Jezebel and Sistahs|url=http://racism.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1277:aawomen01a&catid=72&Itemid=215|website=Race, Racism and the Law!|publisher=racism.org|access-date=30 November 2015|ref=http://racism.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1277:aawomen01a&catid=72&Itemid=215}}</ref> These stereotypes contrast with standards of sexual conservatism, creating a dichotomy that dehumanizes and demonizes the stereotyped groups. An example of a stereotype that lies at the intersection of racism, classism, and misogyny is the archetype of the “[[welfare queen]].” Cathy Cohen describes how the "welfare queen" stereotype demonizes poor black single mothers for deviating from conventions surrounding family structure.<ref>{{Citation|chapter=Punks, Bulldaggers, and Welfare Queens|date=2005|pages=21–51|publisher=Duke University Press|doi=10.1215/9780822387220-003|isbn=9780822336297|title=Black Queer Studies|s2cid=48259239|chapter-url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/dfe95a5259e4f128f476dc444f07ae6e5369753b|last1=Cohen|first1=Cathy J.}}</ref>

===Reproductive and sexual rights===
{{Further|Reproductive health|Reproductive rights}}
[[Reproductive and sexual rights]] encompass the concept of applying [[human rights]] to issues related to reproduction and sexuality.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/gender_rights/sexual_health/en/ |title=WHO | Gender and human rights |publisher=Who.int |date=31 January 2002 |access-date=5 August 2014}}</ref> This concept is a modern one, and remains controversial since it deals, directly and indirectly, with issues such as [[contraception]], [[LGBT rights]], [[abortion]], [[sex education]], freedom to choose a partner, freedom to decide whether to be sexually active or not, right to bodily integrity, freedom to decide whether or not, and when, to have children.<ref>
{{cite journal |last=Stark |first=Barbara |year=2011 |title=The Women's Convention, Reproductive Rights, and the Reproduction of Gender |journal=Duke Journal of Gender Law & Policy |volume=18 |issue=261 |pages=261–304 |publisher=Duke University School of Law |access-date=3 November 2014 |url=http://scholarship.law.duke.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1189&context=djglp}}</ref><ref>
{{cite journal |author1=Sandfort, Theo G.M. |author2=Ehrhardt, Anke A. |date=June 2004 |title=Sexual Health: A Useful Public Health Paradigm or a Moral Imperative? |journal=Archives of Sexual Behavior |volume=33 |issue=3 |pages=181–187 |publisher=Springer Science and Business Media B.V. |pmid=15129037 |access-date=3 November 2014 |url=http://mph.ufl.edu/files/2012/01/session4jan22Sandfort2004.pdf |doi=10.1023/b:aseb.0000026618.16408.e0 |s2cid=36553310 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531124301/http://mph.ufl.edu/files/2012/01/session4jan22Sandfort2004.pdf |archive-date=31 May 2014 }}</ref> These are all global issues that exist in all cultures to some extent, but manifest differently depending on the specific contexts.

According to the Swedish government, "sexual rights include the right of all people to decide over their own bodies and sexuality" and "reproductive rights comprise the right of individuals to decide on the number of children they have and the intervals at which they are born."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/14/89/712f7e0c.pdf|title=Sweden's international policy on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights|publisher=Sweden Ministry of Foreign Affairs|year=2006|access-date=3 November 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531105838/http://www.regeringen.se/content/1/c6/06/14/89/712f7e0c.pdf|archive-date=31 May 2014}}</ref> Such rights are not accepted in all cultures, with practices such criminalization of consensual sexual activities (such as those related to homosexual acts and sexual acts outside marriage), acceptance of [[forced marriage]] and [[child marriage]], failure to criminalize all non-consensual sexual encounters (such as [[marital rape]]), [[female genital mutilation]], or restricted availability of contraception, being common around the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/news/sexual-and-reproductive-rights-under-threat-worldwide-2014-03-06 |title=Sexual and reproductive rights under threat worldwide | Amnesty International |publisher=Amnesty.org |access-date=5 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/issues/women-s-rights/women-s-health-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/my-body-my-rights |title=My Body, My Rights! |publisher=Amnesty International |year=2013 |access-date=3 November 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407051912/http://www.amnestyusa.org/our-work/issues/women-s-rights/women-s-health-sexual-and-reproductive-rights/my-body-my-rights |archive-date=7 April 2014 }}</ref>

=== Stigma of contraceptives in the U.S. ===
In 1915, Emma Goldman and Margaret Sanger,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/goldman/MeetEmmaGoldman/birthcontrolpioneer.html|title=Birth Control Pioneer|website=lib.berkeley.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> leaders of the birth control movement, began to spread information regarding contraception in opposition to the laws, such as the Comstock Law,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/comstock-law-1873|title=The Comstock Law (1873) {{!}} The Embryo Project Encyclopedia|website=embryo.asu.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> that demonized it. One of their main purposes was to assert that the birth control movement was about empowering women with personal reproductive and economic freedom for those who could not afford to parent a child or simply did not want one. Goldman and Sanger saw it necessary to educate people as contraceptives were quickly being stigmatized as a population control tactic due to being a policy limiting births, disregarding that this limitation did not target ecological, political, or large economic conditions.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Gordon|first=L.|date=1974|title=The politics of population: birth control and the eugenics movement|journal=Radical America|volume=8|issue=4|pages=61–98|issn=0033-7617|pmid=11615086}}</ref> This stigma targeted lower-class women who had the most need of access to contraception.

Birth control finally began to lose stigma in 1936 when the ruling of U.S. v. One Package<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/united-states-v-one-package-japanese-pessaries-1936|title=United States v. One Package of Japanese Pessaries (1936) {{!}} The Embryo Project Encyclopedia|website=embryo.asu.edu|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> declared that prescribing contraception to save a person's life or well-being was no longer illegal under the Comstock Law. Although opinions varied on when birth control should be available to women, by 1938, there were 347 birth control clinics in the United States but advertising their services remained illegal.

The stigma continued to lose credibility as First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt publicly showed her support for birth control through the four terms her husband served (1933–1945). However, it was not until 1966 that the Federal Government began to fund family planning and subsidized birth control services for lower-class women and families at the order of President Lyndon B. Johnson. This funding continued after 1970 under the Family Planning Services and Population Research Act.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4847a1.htm|title=Achievements in Public Health, 1900–1999: Family Planning|website=cdc.gov|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref> Today, all Health Insurance Marketplace plans are required to cover all forms of contraception, including sterilization procedures, as a result of The Affordable Care Act signed by President Barack Obama in 2010.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/affordable-care-act/|title=Affordable Care Act (ACA) – HealthCare.gov Glossary|website=HealthCare.gov|access-date=25 July 2019}}</ref>

=== Stigma and activism during the AIDS epidemic ===
In 1981, doctors diagnosed the first reported cases of [[HIV/AIDS|AIDS]] in America. The disease disproportionately affected and continues to affect gay and bisexual men, especially black and Latino men.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.kff.org/hivaids/fact-sheet/the-hivaids-epidemic-in-the-united-states-the-basics/ |title=The HIV/AIDS Epidemic in the United States: The Basics |website=The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation |access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> The Reagan administration is criticized for its apathy towards the AIDS epidemic, and audio recordings reveal that Ronald Reagan's press secretary Larry Speakes viewed the epidemic as a joke, mocking AIDS by calling it the "gay plague".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vox.com/2015/12/1/9828348/ronald-reagan-hiv-aids|title=The Reagan administration's unbelievable response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic|last=Lopez|first=German|date=1 December 2015|website=Vox|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> The epidemic also carried stigma coming from religious influences. For example, Cardinal Krol voiced that AIDS was "an act of vengeance against the sin of homosexuality", which clarifies the specific meaning behind the pope's mention of "the moral source of AIDS."<ref>{{Cite journal|last=POIRIER|first=RICHARD|date=1988|title=AIDS and Traditions of Homophobia|journal=Social Research|volume=55|issue=3|pages=461–475|issn=0037-783X|jstor=40970515}}</ref>

[[HIV/AIDS activism|Activism]] during the AIDS crisis focused on promoting safe sex practices to raise awareness that the disease could be prevented. The "Safe Sex is Hot Sex" campaign, for example, aimed to promote the use of condoms.<ref name="Geiling">{{Cite web|url=https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-confusing-and-at-times-counterproductive-1980s-response-to-the-aids-epidemic-180948611/|title=The Confusing and At-Times Counterproductive 1980s Response to the AIDS Epidemic|last=Geiling|first=Natasha|website=Smithsonian|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref> Campaigns by the U.S. government, however, diverged from advocacy of safe sex. In 1987, Congress even denied federal funding from awareness campaigns that "[promoted] or [encouraged], directly or indirectly, homosexual activities".<ref name="Geiling"/> Instead, campaigns by the government primarily relied on scare tactics in order to instill fear in men who had sex with other men.<ref name="Geiling"/>

In addition to prevention campaigns, activists also sought to counteract narratives that led to the "social death" for people living with AIDS.<ref name="Wright 1788–1798">{{Cite journal|last=Wright|first=Joe|date=15 August 2013|title=Only Your Calamity: The Beginnings of Activism by and for People With AIDS|journal=American Journal of Public Health|volume=103|issue=10|pages=1788–1798|doi=10.2105/AJPH.2013.301381|issn=0090-0036|pmc=3780739|pmid=23948013}}</ref> [[Gay men]] from San Francisco and New York City created the Denver Principles, a foundational document that demanded the rights, agency, and dignity of people living with AIDS.<ref name="Wright 1788–1798"/>

In his article "Emergence of Gay Identity and Gay Social Movements in Developing Countries", Matthew Roberts discusses how international AIDS prevention campaigns created opportunities for gay men to interact with other openly gay men from other countries.<ref name="Roberts 243–264">{{Cite journal|last=Roberts|first=Matthew W.|date=April 1995|title=Emergence of Gay Identity and Gay Social Movements in Developing Countries: The AIDS Crisis as Catalyst|journal=Alternatives: Global, Local, Political|volume=20|issue=2|pages=243–264|doi=10.1177/030437549502000205|s2cid=140772471|issn=0304-3754}}</ref> These interactions allowed western gay "culture" to be introduced to gay men in countries where homosexuality wasn't an important identifier. Thus, group organizers self-identified as gay more and more, creating the basis for further development of gay consciousness in different countries.<ref name="Roberts 243–264"/>

==Sexual behavior==
===General activities and health===
{{Main|Human sexual activity}}
{{See also|Sexual intercourse#Health effects|Sexually active life expectancy}}

In humans, sexual intercourse and sexual activity {{citation needed|date=December 2020}} in general have been shown to have health benefits, such as an improved sense of smell,{{citation needed|date=June 2016}} reduction in [[Stress (biology)|stress]] and blood pressure,<ref name="webmd.com">Doheny, K. (2008) [http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/10-surprising-health-benefits-of-sex "10 Surprising Health Benefits of Sex,"] [[WebMD]] (reviewed by Chang, L., M.D.)</ref><ref>Light, K.C. et al., "More frequent partner hugs and higher oxytocin levels are linked to lower blood pressure and heart rate in premenopausal women." ''Biological Psychology'', April 2005; vol 69: pp 5–21.</ref> increased [[immune system|immunity]],<ref>Charnetski CJ, Brennan FX. Sexual frequency and salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA). ''Psychological Reports'' 2004 Jun;94(3 Pt 1):839–844. Data on length of relationship and sexual satisfaction were not related to the group differences.</ref> and decreased risk of [[prostate cancer]].<ref>Michael F. Leitzmann; Edward Giovannucci. Frequency of Ejaculation and Risk of Prostate Cancer – Reply. ''JAMA''. (2004);292:329.</ref><ref>Leitzmann MF, Platz EA, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC, Giovannucci E. Ejaculation Frequency and Subsequent Risk of Prostate Cancer. ''JAMA''. (2004);291(13):1578–1586.</ref><ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 12887469 | volume=92 | issue=3 | title=Sexual factors and prostate cancer | date=August 2003 | journal=BJU Int. | pages=211–216 | last1 = Giles | first1 = GG | last2 = Severi | first2 = G | last3 = English | first3 = DR | display-authors = etal | doi=10.1046/j.1464-410x.2003.04319.x| s2cid=29430415 | doi-access=free }}</ref> Sexual intimacy and orgasms increase levels of oxytocin, which helps people bond and build trust.<ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 19482229 | doi=10.1016/j.pneurobio.2009.04.001 | volume=88 | issue=2 | title=Oxytocin: the great facilitator of life | pmc=2689929 | date=June 2009 | journal=Prog. Neurobiol. | pages=127–151 | last1 = Lee | first1 = HJ | last2 = Macbeth | first2 = AH | last3 = Pagani | first3 = JH | last4 = Young | first4 = WS}}</ref><ref>Riley AJ. Oxytocin and coitus. ''Sexual and Relationship Therapy'' (1988);3:29–36</ref><ref>Carter CS. Oxytocin and sexual behavior. ''Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews'' (1992);16(2):131–144</ref>

A long-term study of 3,500 people between ages 30 and 101 by clinical neuropsychologist David Weeks, MD, head of old-age psychology at the [[Royal Edinburgh Hospital]] in Scotland, said he found that "sex helps you look between four and seven years younger", according to impartial ratings of the subjects' photographs. Exclusive causation, however, is unclear, and the benefits may be indirectly related to sex and directly related to significant reductions in stress, greater contentment, and better sleep that sex promotes.<ref>{{cite web|last=Blum|first=Jeffrey |title=Can Good Sex Keep You Young?|url=http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=51501|website=WebMD|access-date=8 October 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Weeks|first=David|title=Secrets of the Superyoung|year=1999|publisher=Berkley|isbn=978-0-425-17258-2|page=[https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780425172582/page/277 277]|url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780425172582/page/277}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Northrup|first=Christiane|title=Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing|year=2010|publisher=Bantam|isbn=978-0-553-80793-6|page=960|url={{Google books |plainurl=yes |id=V9S3keMnie8C |page=232 }} }}</ref>

Sexual intercourse can also be a [[vector (epidemiology)|disease vector]].<ref>"[http://www.4parents.gov/sexrisky/stds/common_std/common_std.html Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110625104729/http://www.4parents.gov/sexrisky/stds/common_std/common_std.html |date=25 June 2011 }}". U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.</ref> There are 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) every year in the U.S.,<ref name="CDC">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats08/surv2008-Complete.pdf Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance], 2008. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; November 2009.[https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats08/2008survFactSheet.PDF Fact Sheet]</ref> and worldwide there are over 340 million STD infections each year.<ref name="who">World Health Organization Fact Sheet on Sexually Transmitted Diseases. {{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs110/en/print.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=24 July 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120709030847/http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs110/en/print.html |archive-date=9 July 2012 }} Accessed 27 May 2010</ref> More than half of these occur in adolescents and young adults aged 15–24 years.<ref>Weinstock H, et al. Sexually transmitted diseases among American youth: incidence and prevalence estimates, 2000. ''Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health'' (2004);36(1):6–10.</ref> At least one in four U.S. teenage girls has a sexually transmitted disease.<ref name="CDC"/><ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/12/science/12std.html?_r=1 Sex Infections Found in Quarter of Teenage Girls]. [[The New York Times]]. 12 March 2008.</ref> In the U.S., about 30% of 15- to 17-year-olds have had sexual intercourse, but only about 80% of 15- to 19-year-olds report using condoms for their first sexual intercourse.<ref>CDC. Sexual and Reproductive Health of Persons Aged 10–24 Years – United States, 2002–2007. MMWR 20009; 58 (No. SS-6):1–59 [https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/ss/ss5806.pdf]</ref> In one study, more than 75% of young women age 18–25 years felt they were at low risk of acquiring an STD.<ref>{{cite journal | pmid = 12855216 | volume=37 | issue=2 | title=Factors associated with condom use among at-risk women students and nonstudents seen in managed care | date=August 2003 | journal=Prev Med | pages=163–170 | last1 = Yarnall | first1 = KS | last2 = McBride | first2 = CM | last3 = Lyna | first3 = P | display-authors = etal | doi=10.1016/s0091-7435(03)00109-9}}</ref>

===Creating a relationship===
{{More citations needed section|date=June 2015}}
[[File:Eugen de Blaas The Flirtation.jpg|thumb|right|''The Flirtation'', [[Eugene de Blaas]], 1904.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.artrenewal.org/pages/artist.php?artistid=326 |title=Art Renewal Center Museum™ Artist Information for Eugene de Blaas |publisher=Artrenewal.org |access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref>]]
People both consciously and subconsciously seek to attract others with whom they can form deep relationships. This may be for companionship, procreation, or an intimate relationship. This involves interactive processes whereby people find and attract potential partners and maintain a relationship. These processes, which involve attracting one or more partners and maintaining sexual interest, can include:
* [[Flirting]], the attraction of the sexual attention of another to encourage romance or sexual relations. It can involve [[body language]], conversation, joking, or brief physical contact.<ref>[http://www.sirc.org/publik/flirt.html SIRC Guide to Flirting. What Social Science can tell you about flirting and how to do it.] Retrieved 13 October 2009.</ref> Flirting is a socially accepted way of attracting someone. There are different types of flirting, and most people usually have one way of flirting that makes them most comfortable. When flirting, people can be polite, playful, physical, etc. Sometimes it is difficult to know whether or not the person is interested.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.ku.edu/2013/09/11/new-book-outlines-five-types-flirting-styles |title= New book outlines five types of flirting styles |last=Schmidt |first=Megan | publisher=KU News Service |date=9 November 2013 |website=University of Kansas |access-date=7 December 2015}}</ref> Flirting styles vary according to culture. Different cultures have different social etiquette. For example, length of eye contact, or how closely one stands by someone.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.spiegel.de/international/0,1518,419712,00.html |title=Scoring a German: Flirting with Fräuleins, Hunting for Herren |publisher=Spiegel.de |access-date=7 December 2015}}</ref>
* [[Seduction]], the process whereby one person deliberately entices another to engage in sexual behavior.<ref>{{cite book | author=Greene, Robert | author-link=Robert Greene (author) | title=The Art of Seduction | publisher=Penguin Books | year=2003 | isbn=978-0-14-200119-6 | url=https://archive.org/details/artofseduction00robe_0 }}</ref> This behavior is one that the person you are seducing would not usually do, unless sexually aroused. Seduction can be seen as both a positive and a negative. Since the word seduction has a Latin meaning, which is "to lead astray" it can be viewed negatively.<ref>Buss, D. (1996) ''The Evolution of Desire: Strategies of Human Mating''.</ref>

===Sexual attraction===
{{Main|Sexual attraction}}
Sexual attraction is [[Attractiveness|attraction]] on the basis of [[sexual desire]] or the quality of arousing such interest.<ref name="Sexual attraction">{{cite web|title=Sexual attraction|publisher=[[TheFreeDictionary.com]]|access-date=16 December 2011|url=http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sexual+attraction|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331224102/http://www.thefreedictionary.com/sexual+attraction|archive-date=31 March 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Sexual attraction2">{{cite web|title=Sexual attraction| publisher=Reference.com|access-date=16 December 2011|url=http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/sexual+attraction}}</ref> Sexual attractiveness or sex appeal is an individual's ability to attract the sexual or [[erotic]] interest of another person, and is a factor in [[sexual selection]] or [[mate choice]]. The attraction can be to the [[physical attraction|physical]] or other qualities or traits of a person, or to such qualities in the context in which they appear. The attraction may be to a person's [[aesthetics]] or movements or to their voice or smell, besides other factors. The attraction may be enhanced by a person's adornments, clothing, perfume, [[long hair|hair length]] and [[hair style|style]], and anything else which can attract the sexual interest of another person. It can also be influenced by [[individual]] [[Genetics|genetic]], [[psychological]], or cultural factors, or to other, more amorphous qualities of the person. Sexual attraction is also a response to another person that depends on a combination of the person possessing the traits and also on the criteria of the person who is attracted.

Though attempts have been made to devise objective criteria of sexual attractiveness, and measure it as [[individual capital|one of several bodily forms of]] [[capital asset]] (''see [[erotic capital]]''), a person's sexual attractiveness is to a large extent a subjective measure dependent on another person's interest, perception, and [[sexual orientation]]. For example, a [[Homosexuality|gay or lesbian person]] would typically find a person of the [[Same-sex attraction|same sex]] to be more attractive than one of the other sex. A [[bisexuality|bisexual person]] would find either sex to be attractive.

In addition, there are [[Asexuality|asexual]] people, who usually do not experience sexual attraction for either sex, though they may have romantic attraction (homoromantic, biromantic or heteroromantic). [[Interpersonal attraction]] includes factors such as [[propinquity|physical or psychological similarity]], [[Intimate relationship#Intimacy|familiarity]] or possessing a preponderance of [[Koinophilia#Physical attractiveness|common or familiar features]], [[similarity (psychology)|similarity]], [[Interpersonal compatibility|complementarity]], [[reciprocal liking]], and [[reinforcement]].<ref>Miller, R., Perlman, D., and Brehm, S.S. Intimate Relationships, 4th Edition, McGrawHill Companies.{{page needed|date=December 2012}}</ref>

The ability of a person's physical and other qualities to create a sexual interest in others is the basis of their use in [[sex in advertising|advertising]], [[music video]], [[pornography]], [[Sex in film|film]], and other visual media, as well as in [[Model (person)|modeling]], [[sex work]] and other occupations.

===Legal issues===

{{Main|Family law |Divorce |Marriage |Human sexual activity#Legal issues|Sex and the law}}
Globally, laws regulate human sexuality in several ways, including criminalizing particular sexual behaviors, granting individuals the privacy or [[autonomy]] to make their own sexual decisions, protecting individuals with regard to equality and non-discrimination, recognizing and protecting other individual rights, as well as legislating matters regarding marriage and the family, and creating laws protecting individuals from violence, harassment, and persecution.<ref name=SexualityLaw1>{{cite web | last1 = Mills |first1=Elizabeth |last2=Haste |first2=Polly |last3=Wood |first3=Stephen | date = 17 June 2016 | title = 1. Issues and Debates; How is sexuality regulated in law? | work = Sexuality and Social Justice: A Toolkit | location = Brighton, UK | publisher = Institute of Development Studies, Sexuality, Poverty and Law Programme | url = http://www.spl.ids.ac.uk/sexuality-and-social-justice-toolkit/1-issues-and-debates/how-sexuality-regulated-law | access-date = 17 June 2016 }}</ref>

In the United States, there are two fundamentally different approaches, applied in different states, regarding the way the law is used to attempt to govern a person's sexuality. The "black letter" approach to law focuses on the study of pre-existing legal precedent, and attempts to offer a clear framework of rules within which lawyers and others can work.<ref name=SexualityLaw1/> In contrast, the socio-legal approach focuses more broadly on the relationship between the law and society, and offers a more contextualized view of the relationship between legal and social change.<ref name=SexualityLaw1/>

Issues regarding human sexuality and human sexual orientation have come to the forefront in Western law in the latter half of the twentieth century, as part of the [[gay liberation]] movement's encouragement of [[LGBT]] individuals to "[[come out of the closet]]" and engaging with the legal system, primarily through courts. Therefore, many issues regarding human sexuality and the law are found in the opinions of the courts.<ref name=Minnesota1>{{cite web|title=Researching Legal Issues of Sexual Orientation|url=https://library.law.umn.edu/researchguides/sexual-orientation.html|website=library.law.umn.edu|publisher=University of Minnesota|access-date=3 July 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705012329/https://library.law.umn.edu/researchguides/sexual-orientation.html|archive-date=5 July 2015}}</ref>

====Sexual privacy====
{{See also|Sexual and reproductive health and rights}}
While the issue of privacy has been useful to sexual rights claims, some scholars have criticized its usefulness, saying that this perspective is too narrow and restrictive. The law is often slow to intervene in certain forms of coercive behavior that can limit individuals' control over their own sexuality (such as [[female genital mutilation]], [[forced marriages]] or lack of access to reproductive health care). Many of these injustices are often perpetuated wholly or in part by private individuals rather than state agents, and as a result, there is an ongoing debate about the extent of state responsibility to prevent harmful practices and to investigate such practices when they do occur.<ref name=SexualityLaw1 />

State intervention with regards to sexuality also occurs, and is considered acceptable by some, in certain instances (e.g. same-sex sexual activity or [[prostitution]]).<ref name=SexualityLaw1 />

The legal systems surrounding [[prostitution]] are a topic of debate. Proponents for criminalization argue that sex work is an immoral practice that should not be tolerated, while proponents for decriminalization point out how criminalization does more harm than good. Within the feminist movement, there is also a debate over whether sex work is inherently objectifying and exploitative or whether sex workers have the agency to sell sex as a service.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.timescolonist.com/opinion/columnists/kate-heartfield-do-prostitutes-sell-themselves-or-a-service-1.877652|title=Kate Heartfield: Do prostitutes sell themselves or a service?|last=Heartfield|first=Kate|website=Times Colonist|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref>

When sex work is criminalized, sex workers do not have support from law enforcement when they fall victim to violence. In a 2003 survey of street-based sex workers in NYC, 80% said they had been threatened with or experienced violence, and many said the police were no help. 27% said they had experienced violence from police officers themselves.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://sexworkersproject.org/downloads/RevolvingDoor.pdf|title=Revolving Door|last=Thukral|first=Juhu|date=2003|website=Sex Workers Project|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040103043554/http://sexworkersproject.org/downloads/RevolvingDoor.pdf|archive-date=2004-01-03}}</ref> Different identities such as being black, transgender, or poor can result in a person being more likely to be criminally profiled by the police. For example, in New York, there is a law against "loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution", which has been nicknamed the "walking while trans" law because of how often transgender women are assumed to be sex workers and arrested for simply walking out in public.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vox.com/2019/8/2/20692327/sex-work-decriminalization-prostitution-new-york-dc|title=Sex workers' fight for decriminalization, explained|last=North|first=Anna|date=2 August 2019|website=Vox|access-date=30 October 2019}}</ref>

==Religious sexual morality==
{{Main|Religion and sexuality}}
In some religions, sexual behavior is regarded as primarily spiritual. In others it is treated as primarily physical. Some hold that sexual behavior is only spiritual within certain kinds of relationships, when used for specific purposes, or when incorporated into religious ritual. In some religions there are no distinctions between the physical and the spiritual, whereas some religions view human sexuality as a way of completing the gap that exists between the spiritual and the physical.<ref>{{cite web|title=Religion and Sexuality|url=http://www.iwgonline.org/sexuality/|publisher=Interfaith Working Group|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

Many religious conservatives, especially those of [[Abrahamic religions]] and [[Christianity]] in particular, tend to view sexuality in terms of behavior (''i.e.'' homosexuality or heterosexuality is what someone does) and certain sexualities such as [[bisexuality]] tend to be ignored as a result of this.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} These conservatives tend to promote [[celibacy]] for gay people, and may also tend to believe that sexuality can be changed through [[conversion therapy]]<ref name=Tolerance111>{{cite web | title= Two Definitions and Six Interpretations | url=http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom6beli.htm | website=religioustolerance.org | access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref> or [[prayer]] to become an [[ex-gay]]. They may also see homosexuality as a form of mental illness, something that ought to be criminalised, an immoral abomination, caused by ineffective parenting, and view [[same-sex marriage]] as a threat to society.<ref name=Tolerance222>{{cite web|title=Subdividing Two Extreme Belief Systems About Homosexuality into Six Discrete Viewpoints | url=http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom7beli.htm|website=religioustolerance.org | access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

On the other hand, most religious liberals define sexuality-related labels in terms of [[sexual attraction]] and self-identification.<ref name=Tolerance111 /> They may also view same-sex activity as morally neutral and as legally acceptable as opposite-sex activity, unrelated to mental illness, genetically or environmentally caused (but not as the result of bad parenting), and fixed. They also tend to be more in favor of same-sex marriage.<ref name=Tolerance222 />

===Judaism===
According to [[Judaism]], sex between man and woman within marriage is sacred and should be enjoyed; celibacy is considered sinful.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>{{page needed|date=February 2016}}

=== Christianity ===
Desire, including sexual desire and lust, are considered immoral and sinful.<ref name="Knust2005">{{cite book|author=Jennifer Wright Knust|title=Abandoned to Lust: Sexual Slander and Ancient Christianity|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2AUEAmdWwuUC&pg=PA1|date=9 November 2005|publisher=Columbia University Press|isbn=978-0-231-51004-2|pages=51, 67, 78}}</ref><ref name="Pagels2011">{{cite book|author=Elaine Pagels|title=Adam, Eve, and the Serpent: Sex and Politics in Early Christianity|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=btufm2vXzpEC&pg=PR17|date=5 October 2011|publisher=Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group|isbn=978-0-307-80735-9|pages=xvii-xix}}</ref><ref name="Wiesner-Hanks2000">{{cite book|last=Wiesner-Hanks|first=Merry E.|title=Christianity and Sexuality in the Early Modern World: Regulating Desire, Reforming Practice|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4v1zuZF-te0C&pg=PA1|year=2000|publisher=Psychology Press|isbn=978-0-415-14434-6|page=10}}</ref> [[Elaine Pagels]] says, "By the beginning of the fifth century, [[Augustine of Hippo|Augustine]] had actually declared that spontaneous sexual desire is the proof of—and penalty for—universal original sin", though that this view goes against "most of his Christian predecessors".<ref name="Pagels2011" /> According to [[Jennifer Wright Knust]], [[Paul the Apostle|Paul]] framed desire a force Christians gained control over whereas non-Christians were "enslaved" by it.<ref name="Knust2005" /> Further, Paul says the bodies of Christians were members of [[Body of Christ|Christ's body]] and thus sexual desire must be eschewed.<ref name="Knust2005" />

====Roman Catholic Church====
The [[Roman Catholic Church]] teaches that sexuality is "noble and worthy"<ref>Second Vatican Council, Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the World of Today, no. 49: AAS 58 (1966), 1070</ref> but that it must be used in accordance with natural law. For this reason, all sexual activity must occur in the context of a marriage between a man and a woman, and must not be divorced from the possibility of conception. Most forms of sex without the possibility of conception are considered intrinsically disordered and sinful, such as the use of contraceptives, [[masturbation]], and homosexual acts.<ref>{{cite web|title=Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Sixth Commandment|url=https://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a6.htm|website=vatican.va|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

====Anglicanism====
The [[Anglicanism|Anglican Church]] teaches that human sexuality is a gift from a loving God designed to be between a man and a woman in a monogamous lifetime union of marriage. It also views singleness and dedicated celibacy as Christ-like. It states that people with same sex attraction are loved by God and are welcomed as full members of the [[Body of Christ]], while the Church leadership has a variety of views in regard to homosexual expression and ordination. Some expressions of sexuality are considered sinful including "promiscuity, prostitution, incest, pornography, paedophilia, predatory sexual behaviour, and sadomasochism (all of which may be heterosexual and homosexual), adultery, violence against wives, and female circumcision". The Church is concerned with pressures on young people to engage sexually and encourages abstinence.<ref>{{cite web|title=Section I.10 - Human Sexuality|url=https://www.anglicancommunion.org/resources/document-library/lambeth-conference/1998/section-i-called-to-full-humanity/section-i10-human-sexuality|website=anglicancommunion.org|access-date=4 January 2020}}</ref>

====Evangelicalism====
In matters of sexuality, several [[Evangelical]] churches promote the [[virginity pledge]] among young Evangelical Christians, who are invited to commit themselves during a public ceremony to [[sexual abstinence]] until [[Christian marriage]].<ref>John DeLamater, Rebecca F. Plante, ''Handbook of the Sociology of Sexualities'', Springer, USA, 2015, p. 351</ref> This pledge is often symbolized by a [[purity ring]].<ref>Kathleen J. Fitzgerald, Kandice L. Grossman, ''Sociology of Sexualities'', SAGE Publications, USA, 2017, p. 166</ref>

In evangelical churches, young adults and unmarried couples are encouraged to marry early in order to live a sexuality according to the will of God.<ref>Noah Manskar, [https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/religion/2014/08/12/southern-baptists-double-marriage/13894197/ Baptists encourage marrying younger], tennessean.com, USA, August 12, 2014</ref>

Although some churches are discreet on the subject, other evangelical churches in [[United States]] and [[Switzerland]] speak of a satisfying sexuality as a gift from God and a component of a harmonious [[Christian marriage]], in messages during [[Worship service (evangelicalism)|worship services]] or conferences.<ref>Timothy J. Demy Ph.D., Paul R. Shockley Ph.D., ''Evangelical America: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary American Religious Culture'', ABC-CLIO, USA, 2017, p. 371</ref><ref>Emma Green, [https://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2014/11/the-warrior-wives-of-evangelical-christianity/382365/ The Warrior Wives of Evangelical Christianity], theatlantic.com, USA, November 9, 2014</ref> Many evangelical books and websites are specialized on the subject.<ref>Kelsy Burke, ''Christians Under Covers: Evangelicals and Sexual Pleasure on the Internet'', University of California Press, USA, 2016, p. 31, 66</ref>

The [[Christianity and homosexuality#Evangelical churches|perceptions of homosexuality in the Evangelical Churches]] are varied. They range from [[Liberal Christianity|liberal]] through [[Moderate evangelical theology|moderate]] to [[Christian fundamentalism|conservative]].<ref>Jeffrey S. Siker, ''Homosexuality and Religion: An Encyclopedia'', Greenwood Publishing Group, USA, 2007, p. 112</ref><ref>William Henard, Adam Greenway, ''Evangelicals Engaging Emergent'', B&H Publishing Group, USA, 2009, p. 20</ref>

==== Eastern Orthodox Church ====
{{Empty section|date=March 2021}}

===Islam===
{{Main|Sex in Islam}}
In [[Islam]], sexual desire is considered to be a natural urge that should not be suppressed, although the concept of free sex is not accepted; these urges should be fulfilled responsibly. Marriage is considered to be a good deed; it does not hinder spiritual wayfaring. The term used for marriage within the [[Quran]] is ''nikah''{{citation needed|date=March 2021}}, which literally means sexual intercourse. Although Islamic sexuality is restrained via [[Islamic sexual jurisprudence]], it emphasizes sexual pleasure within marriage. It is acceptable for a man to have more than one wife, but he must take care of those wives physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually.<ref>{{cite book | author = Stearns, Peter N. | title = Major Patterns of Change and Continuity: World History in Brief }}{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}}</ref>{{full citation needed|date=February 2016}} Muslims believe that sexual intercourse is an act of worship that fulfils emotional and physical needs, and that producing children is one way in which humans can contribute to God's creation, and Islam discourages celibacy once an individual is married.

However, homosexuality is strictly forbidden in Islam, and some Muslim lawyers have suggested that gay people should be put to death.<ref>{{cite web|title=Islam: beliefs about love and sex|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/isloveandsexrev1.shtml|publisher=GCSE BBC Bitesize|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref> On the other hand, some have argued that Islam has an open and playful approach to sex<ref>[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/sex/10031095/Sex-What-Muslim-women-really-want-in-the-bedroom.html], Article titled "Sex: What Muslim women really want in the bedroom", by Shelina Janmohamed, ''The Telegraph'', 2 May 2013, accessed on 23 September 2015.</ref> so long as it is within marriage, free of lewdness, fornication and adultery.

For many Muslims, sex with reference to the Quran indicates that—bar anal intercourse and adultery—a Muslim marital home bonded by ''[[Nikah]]'' marital contract between husband and his wife (or wives) should enjoy and even indulge, within the privacy of their marital home, in limitless scope of [[heterosexual]] sexual acts within a [[monogamous]] or [[polygamous]] marriage.<ref>[https://lifeinsideislam.wordpress.com/2015/10/22/sex-in-reference-to-the-quran/ Sex in reference to Quran] by A Taha, Accessed on 22 October 2015{{unreliable source?|date=October 2015}}</ref>

===Hinduism===
[[Hinduism]] emphasizes that sex is only appropriate between husband and wife, in which satisfying sexual urges through sexual pleasure is an important duty of marriage. Any sex before marriage is considered to interfere with intellectual development, especially between birth and the age of 25, which is said to be brahmacharya and this should be avoided. [[Kama]] (sensual pleasures) is one of the four purusharthas or aims of life (dharma, artha, kama, and moksha).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/hiloveandsexrev1.shtml |title=GCSE Bitesize: Hindu views |publisher=BBC |access-date=30 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140131225017/http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/hiloveandsexrev1.shtml |archive-date=31 January 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Hindu ''[[Kama Sutra]]'' deals partially with sexual intercourse; it is not exclusively a sexual or religious work.<ref>[http://indrasinha.com/kama-sutra/ Common misconceptions about ''Kama Sutra''.] "The ''Kama Sutra'' is neither exclusively a sex manual nor, as also commonly used art, a sacred or religious work. It is certainly not a [[Tantra|tantric]] text.

In opening with a discussion of the three aims of ancient Hindu life—[[dharma]], [[artha]] and [[kama]]—[[Vātsyāyana|Vatsyayana's]] purpose is to set kama, or enjoyment of the senses, in context. Thus dharma or virtuous living is the highest aim, artha, the amassing of wealth is next, and kama is the least of three." —[[Indra Sinha]].</ref><ref>{{Cite book | last = Carroll| first = Janell| title = Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity| publisher = [[Cengage Learning]]| year = 2009| page = 7| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=5f8mQx7ULs4C&pg=PA7| isbn = 978-0-495-60274-3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book | last = Devi| first = Chandi| title = From Om to Orgasm: The Tantra Primer for Living in Bliss| publisher = [[AuthorHouse]]| year = 2008| page = 288| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=gIqhh84DGToC&pg=PA288| isbn = 978-1-4343-4960-6}}</ref>

===Sikhism===
[[Sikhism]] views [[chastity]] as important, as Sikhs believe that the divine spark of ''[[Waheguru]]'' is present inside every individual's body, therefore it is important for one to keep clean and pure. Sexual activity is limited to married couples, and extramarital sex is forbidden. Marriage is seen as a commitment to ''Waheguru'' and should be viewed as part of spiritual companionship, rather than just sexual intercourse, and [[monogamy]] is deeply emphasised in Sikhism. Any other way of living is discouraged, including celibacy and homosexuality. However, in comparison to other religions, the issue of sexuality in Sikhism is not considered one of paramount importance.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sikhism: beliefs about love and sex|url=https://ahcaf.com/sikhism-beliefs-about-love-and-sex/|publisher=GCSE BBC Bitesize|access-date=3 July 2015}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|Human sexuality}}
{{collist|colwidth=30em|
* [[Adolescent sexuality]]
* [[Age of consent]]
* [[Antisexualism]]
* [[Gay sexual practices]]
* [[Human female sexuality]]
* [[Human male sexuality]]
* [[Human mating strategies]]
* [[Strategic pluralism]]
* [[Lesbian sexual practices]]
* [[Neuroscience and sexual orientation]]
* [[Sex magic]]
* [[Sexology]]
* [[Sex-positive movement]]
* [[Sex-positive feminism]]
* [[Sexualization]]
* [[Sociosexual orientation]]
}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite book | last = Durham | first = Meenakshi G. | title = TechnoSex: technologies of the body, mediated corporealities, and the quest for the sexual self | publisher = University of Michigan Press | location = Ann Arbor | year = 2012 | url = http://clas.uiowa.edu/gwss/news-events/durham-and-waters-freyer-awarded-ahi-grants-2012-13 | author-link1 = Meenakshi Gigi Durham }}
*{{cite journal |last1=Ember |first1=Carol R. |last2=Escobar |first2=Milagro |last3=Rossen |first3=Noah |editor=C. R. Ember |editor-link=Carol_R._Ember |author-link1=Carol R. Ember |title=Sexuality |url=http://hraf.yale.edu/ehc/summaries/sexuality |website=HRAF: Explaining Human Culture |access-date=28 May 2020 |language=en |date=26 September 2019 |quote=Sexual reproduction is part of the biological nature of humans, so it may be surprising how much sexuality varies cross-culturally. Indeed, societies vary considerably in the degree to which they encourage, discourage, or even appear to fear heterosexual sex at different life stages and in varying circumstances.}}
* Gregersen, E. (1982). ''Sexual Practices: The Story of Human Sexuality''. New York: F. Watts.
* Lyons, Andrew P. & Harriet D., eds. ''Sexualities in Anthropology: a reader''. Malden, MA: Wiley-Blackwell, 2011 {{ISBN|1-4051-9054-X}}
* Richardson, Niall; Smith, Clarissa & Werndly, Angela (2013) ''Studying Sexualities: Theories, Representations, Cultures''. London: Palgrave Macmillan
* [[Alan Soble|Soble, Alan]] (ed.). ''Sex from Plato to Paglia'': A Philosophical Encyclopedia, 2 volumes. Greenwood Press, 2006.
* {{cite journal | last1 = Wood | first1 = H. Sex | year = 2003 | title = "Sex Cells." (news report) | journal = Nature Reviews Neuroscience | volume = 4 | page = 88 | doi = 10.1038/nrn1044 | s2cid = 35928534 | doi-access = free }} Lay summary of primary source appearing from the University of Calgary, in ''Science,'' on prolactin release during sexual activity in mice, and its possible relationship to stroke therapy.

== External links ==
* "[http://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1123&context=childrenatrisk Examining the Relationship Between Media Use and Aggression, Sexuality, and Body Image]," Journal of Applied Research on Children: Informing Policy for Children at Risk: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 3.
* [http://www.sexology.it/glossary-of-sexology.html Glossary of clinical sexology – Glossario di sessuologia clinica]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071010100542/http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/IES/index.html International Encyclopedia of Sexuality] [https://web.archive.org/web/20060212144108/http://www2.rz.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/IES/BEGIN.HTM full text]
* Janssen, D.F., [https://web.archive.org/web/20060220110820/http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/GESUND/ARCHIV/GUS/INDEXATLAS.HTM ''Growing Up Sexually. Volume I. World Reference Atlas''] [full text]
* Masters, William H., Virginia E. Johnson, and Robert C. Kolodny. ''Crisis: Heterosexual Behavior in the Age of AIDS''. First ed. New York: Grove Press, 1988. ix, 243 p. {{ISBN|0-8021-1049-5}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120205191708/http://nsrc.sfsu.edu/ National Sexuality Resource Center]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160416215051/http://data360.org/pdf/20070416064139.Global%20Sex%20Survey.pdf Durex Global Sex Survey 2005] at [https://web.archive.org/web/20160510100720/http://www.data360.org/index.aspx data360.org]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060213230309/http://db.jhuccp.org/popinform/basic.html POPLINE] is a searchable database of the world's [[reproductive health]] [[literature]].
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080521085828/http://www.kinseyinstitute.org/ccies/ The Continuum Complete International Encyclopedia of Sexuality at the Kinsey Institute]
* [http://www.sexualityinstitute.org/ The Sexuality and Rights Institute]
* [http://www.asiasrc.org/ The South and Southeast Asia Resource Centre on Sexuality]
* [http://www.educatedearth.net/video.php?id=3940 MRI Video of Human Copulation]
* {{Cite episode|airdate=13 February 2006 |title=Naked Science: What's Sexy? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTfBQtVFhXo |series-no=2 |number=1 |series=Naked Science | series-link=Naked Science |network=National Geographic Channel }}

{{Sex (biology)}}
{{Human sexuality and sexology}}
{{Human sexuality}}
{{Sexual ethics}}
{{Sexual urban legends}}




[[Category:Human sexuality| ]]