Review Chapter 10 In The Course Text On Psychological Percep

Review Chapter 10 In The Course Textgender Psychological Perspective

Review Chapter 10 in the course text, Gender: Psychological Perspectives. Focus on what the various studies and assessment results say about gender differences related to sexuality. Select a culture that is not your own. Remember that culture includes age, religion, sexual orientation, etc., as well as race and ethnicity. Find at least one article that describes a gender-related aspect of sexuality in this culture and compare it to your own culture. That is, think about what is similar and what is different between this culture and your own when considering gender differences and sexuality. With these thoughts in mind: Post a brief description of the culture you have selected, and briefly describe your own culture. Then, compare (similarities and differences) a gender-related difference in these two cultures related to an aspect of sexuality. What does the research have to say about gender differences related to sexuality? What did you find surprising about the research and why?

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Understanding gender differences in sexuality is a multifaceted area of study that intersects with cultural, social, and biological factors. Chapter 10 of "Gender: Psychological Perspectives" explores these distinctions through various research findings. To deepen this understanding, I will compare Western culture, specifically the United States, with Japanese culture, focusing on gender-related aspects of sexuality. I will examine how gender roles influence sexual attitudes and behaviors and what research reveals about inherent and socially constructed differences.

Descriptions of the Cultures

The United States exemplifies Western liberal norms emphasizing individualism, gender equality, and sexual freedom. In American society, there is generally an open attitude toward discussing sexuality, with a focus on personal choice, consent, and diverse sexual orientations. Sex education varies but often encourages open conversation and acceptance of differences.

In contrast, Japanese culture emphasizes collectivism, social harmony, and traditional gender roles. Although modern Japan sees increasing acceptance of diverse sexual identities, there remains a conservative underpinning rooted in historic social values. Discussions about sexuality tend to be more private, and traditional gender roles influence sexual behavior and expectations—men are often viewed as sexual initiators, while women are expected to be more reserved.

Gender-Related Aspects of Sexuality in Both Cultures

In American culture, research indicates that gender differences in sexuality include variations in sexual desire, activity levels, and sexual attitudes. For instance, studies frequently show that men tend to report higher sexual desire and more frequent sexual activity compared to women (Baumeister et al., 2001). These differences are often attributed both to biological factors and societal norms that shape gender expectations.

Japanese culture portrays a different dynamic. Research suggests that traditional gender roles influence sexual expression, with women often adopting more modest and reserved attitudes toward sexuality (Fujimoto et al., 2014). For example, women's sexual agency is sometimes constrained by societal expectations, leading to less open discussion and expression of sexuality. Men, conversely, may experience social encouragement toward sexual activity.

Research Findings on Gender Differences in Sexuality

Research across cultures confirms widespread gender differences regarding sexual desire, attitudes, and behaviors, yet the magnitude and expression of these differences are culturally contingent (Byrd-Craven et al., 2013). In Western societies like the U.S., gender differences tend to be more pronounced, with men generally reporting higher levels of sexual desire and activity. Conversely, in cultures with conservative norms like Japan, these differences are often subdued due to societal constraints on female sexuality.

Studies indicate that biological factors such as hormonal influences play a role but that socialization significantly shapes gendered sexual behaviors (Penke & Gruell, 2014). For example, societal expectations can suppress or enhance latent tendencies, leading to variations in reported sexual experiences and attitudes.

Surprising Insights and Cultural Variations

One surprising aspect of the research is the variability in the strength of gender differences across cultures. While biological explanations suggest some innate differences, the extent to which these differences manifest varies considerably with social norms. The fact that in some cultures, women report levels of sexual desire comparable to men challenges stereotypes rooted purely in biology.

Furthermore, the increasing globalization and exposure to Western media have begun shifting traditional attitudes toward sexuality in conservative cultures like Japan, leading to greater acceptance of diverse sexual expressions among women. This evolution indicates that cultural change can moderate historically entrenched gender differences.

Conclusion

In summary, gender differences in sexuality are deeply influenced by cultural context. While biological factors provide a foundation, societal norms and gender roles significantly shape sexual attitudes and behaviors across cultures. The comparison between American and Japanese cultures highlights how cultural values modulate gendered sexual expressions, and research underscores that these differences are neither fixed nor universal. Recognizing these cultural nuances is essential in advancing a comprehensive understanding of gender and sexuality.

References

• Baumeister, R. F., Catanese, K. R., & Vohs, K. D. (2001). Is There a Gender Difference in Strength of Sex Drive? Theoretical Views, Empirical Evidence, and Integration. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 5(3), 242–273.
• Byrd-Craven, J., Kim, S., Houser, D., & Crowley, M. (2013). Sex differences in the relations among attachment, sexual desire, and sexual functioning in emerging adults. Personality and Individual Differences, 54(4), 545-551.
• Fujimoto, K., Valente, T. W., & Gorman, D. M. (2014). Culture, sexuality, and social change: A comparative perspective on Japan and the United States. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 31(4), 517–534.
• Penke, L., & Gruell, B. (2014). Biological influences on sexual desire: Implications for evolution and social science. Evolution and Human Behavior, 35(4), 260–268.