Chapter 6: Sexual Arousal and Response Flashcards
Cerebral cortex
The outer layer of the brain’s cerebrum that controls higher mental processes.
Limbic system
A subcortical brain system composed of several interrelated structures that influences the sexual behavior of humans and other animals.
Dopamine
A neurotransmitter that facilitates sexual arousal and activity.
Erogenous zones
Areas of the body that are particularly responsive to sexual stimulation.
Primary erogenous zones
Areas of the body that contain dense concentrations of nerve endings.
Secondary erogenous zones
Areas of the body that have become erotically sensitive through learning and experience.
Pheromones
Certain odors produced by the body that relate to reproductive functions.
Aphrodisiac
A substance that allegedly arouses sexual desire and increases the capacity for sexual activity.
Anaphrodisiac
A substance that inhibits sexual desire and behavior.
Steroid hormones
The sex hormones and the hormones of the adrenal cortex.
Neuropeptide hormones
Chemicals produced in the brain that influence sexuality and other behavioral functions
Oxytocin
A neuropeptide produced in the hypothalamus that influences sexual response and interpersonal attraction.
Castration
Surgical removal of the testes.
Orchidectomy
The surgical procedure for removing the testes.
Hypogonadism
Impaired hormone production in the testes that results in testosterone deficiency.
Vasocongestion
The engorgement of blood vessels in particular body parts in response to sexual arousal.
Myotonia
Muscle tension.
Excitement phase
Masters and Johnson’s term for the first phase of the sexual response cycle, in which engorgement of the sexual organs and increases in muscle tension, heart rate, and blood pressure occur. Ranges in length from seconds to hours.
Sex flush
A pink or red rash that can appear on the chest or breasts during sexual arousal.
Plateau phase
Masters and Johnson’s term for the second phase of the sexual response cycle, in which muscle tension, heart rate, blood pressure, and vasocongestion increase. Ranges in length from seconds to minutes.
Orgasm
A series of muscular contractions of the pelvic floor muscles occurring at the peak of sexual arousal. Typically lasts a few seconds.
Resolution phase
The fourth phase of the sexual response cycle, as outlined by Masters and Johnson, in which the sexual systems return to their nonexcited state.
Refractory period
The period of time following orgasm in the male, during which he cannot experience another orgasm. Ranges in length from minutes to days.
Multiple orgasms
More than one orgasm experienced within a short time period.
