Culture & Religion — October 15, 2011

Sexual Stereotypes Debunked

Gender stereotypes that fueled the sexual revolution of the ’60s have been replaced by a new set, say University of Michigan researchers. In a new paper, they seek to debunk them.

bigthinkeditors

What’s the Latest Development?

New research that examines contemporary stereotypes about gender and sexuality says that misunderstandings are common when it comes to men, women and the bedroom. University of Michigan psychology professor Terri Conley has set out to review recent research on gender roles and sexuality with the aim of providing a contemporary understanding of how women and men engage, think and desire sex and romantic partners.

What’s the Big Idea?

Many of the gender stereotypes that become sexual stereotypes are false, say Conley and her team. “For example, there are some who think of the fairer sex as being gentle, delicate flowers—shy and timid in the bedroom, with the men being in control, taking charge and showing off their prowess in the bedroom.” While research has shown, for example, that men think about sex more often than women, this doesn’t necessarily mean that men are more sexual while women are prudish.

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