073 - Thematic Session. Biology and Sexual Behavior

Session Submission Type: Invited Session

Abstract

Sociologists are increasingly learning from and engaged in debates with biologists. Drawing on recent advances in molecular genetics relevant to human sexuality, Guo will review findings and views of geneticists regarding sexual behaviors of males and females, sex differences, and sexual orientation. McClintock will distinguish five distinct components of sexual motivation: sensorimotor function, sexual attractiveness, sexual salience, sexual receptivity and proactive sexual desire. The roles of biology and social context are different for each. Diamond will take a social neuroendrocrinological approach, reviewing research on estrogen-related menstrual cycle changes in desires for same-sex and other-sex partners, and discuss how it offers a new eprspective on biological aspects of female sexual orientation.

Sub Unit

• Thematic Sessions

Session Organizer

• Paula England, New York University

Presider

• Guang Guo, University of North Carolina

Panelists

• Guang Guo, University of North Carolina

• Martha McClintock, University of Chicago

• Lisa Diamond, University of Utah