Sexuality and Sociology

U.S. Sexual Practice Young people are likely to become sexually active in their teenage years By 19: 85% of male 77% of females Slightly declining among men especially. Having only one sexual partner in a lifetime is rare. A significant number of people have extramarital affairs. 25% males 15% of females A significant number of people are lesbian or gay. Estimated at 10% 22-35% of men report homosexual encounters 17-25% of women. For those that are sexually active, sex is relatively frequent. 2/3 of Americans report having sex 2-3 times a week.

Functionalism Sexual Norms: Sexual Identity: Changing Sexual Values: Sexual norms are functional for society because they encourage the formation of stable institutions. Sexual Identity: Sexual Identity is learned in the family; deviant identities contribute to social disorder. Changing Sexual Values: Regulating sexual values and norms is important for maintaining traditional and social stability- too much change creates disorder.

Conflict Theory Sexual Norms: Sexual Identity: Changing Sexual Values: Sexual norms are frequently contested by those who are subordinated by other groups. Sexual Identity: Regulated by individuals and institutions that enforce compulsory heterosexuality. Changing Sexual Values: Social change comes through the activism of people who challenge dominant belief systems and practices.

Symbolic Interaction Sexual Norms: Sexual Identity: Emerge through social interaction and the construction of beliefs. Sexual Identity: Is socially constructed as people learn the sexual scripts created in society. Changing Sexual Values: Change in sexual values systems evolves as people construct new beliefs and practices over time.