Psychology of Human Sexuality Exam 1

Sexual Orientation

The pattern of sexual and emotional attraction based on the gender of one's partner

Sexual Identity

One's self-label or self-identification as a homosexual, heterosexual, or bisexual person

Gender

the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities and attributes that a society considers appropriate for men and women

Media Influence

Extremely influential but not always accurate *remember ted talk

Subjectively "normal" behavior

According to this definition, normalcy is any behavior that is similar to one's own. Through most of us use this definition, few of us will acknowledge it.

Statistically "normal" behavior

According to this definition, whatever behaviors are more common are normal; less common ones are abnormal. However, the fact that a behavior is not widely practiced does not make it abnormal except in a statistical sense.

Idealistically "normal" behavior

Taking an ideal for norm, individuals who use this approach measure all deviations against perfection. Using idealized behavior as a norm can easily lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. They may try to model their behavior after Christ or Gandhi

Culturally "Normal" Behavior

This is a probably the standard most of us use most of the time: We accept as normal what our cultural defines as normal. This measure explains why our notions of normalcy do not always agree with those of people from other countries, religious, communiti

Clinically "normal" Behavior

The clinical standard uses scientific data about health and illness to make judgements. Regardless of time or place, clinical definitions should stand the test of time.

Egocentric fallacy

This mistaken belief that our own personal experience and values generally are held by others; we use our own beliefs and values to explain the attitudes, motivations, and behaviors of others.

Ethnocentric fallacy

The belief that our own ethnic group, nation, or culture is innately superior to others

Informed consent

assent given by a mentally competent individual at least 18 years old with full knowledge of the purpose and potential risks and benefits of participation