1. Chapter 3 Lesson 3 Hormones & Sexual Feelings

2. You’ll learn to… Examine the effect of hormones on the body systems. Demonstrate healthful decision-making skills that show responsible behaviors for your health and the health of others.

3. Sexual Feelings and Response Sexual feelings are normal and healthy, and they are controlled by the same hormones that affect your physical growth. Hormones are chemical substances that regulate the activities of different body cells and organs.

4. Sexual Feelings and Response continued… Sex hormones cause the body to respond to stimulation (kissing, watching a movie, holding hands, thinking about a date) The heart rate increases, breathing speeds up, hands feel clammy, face gets flush. In the male, the penis becomes erect; the female, vaginal fluids are secreted.

5. Sexual Feelings and Response continued… They are entirely natural, and people cannot keep them from occurring. However, a person can and must decide what to do about them. It can be difficult to make a responsible decision once sexual tension builds up. It is a good idea to establish predetermined limits on sexual behavior & stop things before they get going. Establishing limits will help you act maturely and responsibly.

6. Sexual Feelings & Responsible Decisions Strong physical feelings of attraction should not be confused with love. Hormones cause sexual feelings You have complete control over what to do about these feelings If you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself of your long-term goals

7. Sexual Feelings & Responsible Decisions continued… Consequences of engaging in sexual behavior may keep you from pursuing your dreams Keeping your goals in mind will help you make mature, responsible decisions

8. Sexual Feelings & Responsible Decisions continued… Your body has some urges you cannot control (hunger, sleepy, sexually aroused) Just as you can control when you eat and sleep, you can how you respond to sexual feelings.

9. Chapter 3 Lesson 3 Review Questions 1.What causes the body’s response to sexual stimulation? 2.Name four of the body’s first physiological responses to sexual stimulation. 3.Are sexual feelings and love the same thing? Explain your answer.