Question

Belinda, a woman, and Joe, a man, are in excellent health and are highly motivated to have sexual relations with each other. According to the research of Masters and Johnson, the sexual response cycles of Belinda and Joe are likely to differ in all of the following ways EXCEPT a. only Joe will experience increased blood flow to his genitals in the excitement phase b. Belinda is more likely to remain in the plateau phase for a long period of time c. Joe will almost always reach the orgasm phase d. Belinda will have no refractory period between her orgasms

Short answer

The correct answer is option c. The aspect of the sexual response cycle that does not differ between men and women according to the research of Masters and Johnson is that both are likely to reach the orgasm phase.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze options

Go over each answer option carefully and analyze based on knowledge of the sexual response cycles. Note differences and similarities in relation to male and female experiences during these phases.

Compare with Facts

Compare these observations with known facts from Masters and Johnson's research. Males typically have a refractory period after orgasm where subsequent orgasms are not possible for a period of time, whereas females may not experience a prominent refractory period, allowing for the possibility of multiple orgasms. Particularly examine the answer choices that discuss gender-specific experiences during various phases.

Select the correct option

The correct answer should be the one that does not differentiate between the experiences of men and women during the sexual response cycle. In this case, it's option c. Joe will almost always reach the orgasm phase. This statement applies to both men and women, as both are expected to reach the orgasm phase in the sexual response cycle.

Key concepts

Masters and Johnson research

In the 1960s, William Masters and Virginia Johnson conducted pioneering research into human sexual response, which was groundbreaking at the time. They developed an understanding of the sexual response cycle, studying over 10,000 sexual acts and gathering data from hundreds of men and women. Their research was crucial as it provided a detailed, scientifically-backed explanation of how humans physically and emotionally react during sexual activities.

They outlined the sexual response cycle as a series of four continuous phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. This framework allowed for a better comprehension of physiological changes that occur during sexual activity. Through their observations, Masters and Johnson were able to identify key differences and similarities in how men and women experience these phases, contributing greatly to fields of sexology and sexual health.

sexual response differences

When examining the sexual response differences between men and women, Masters and Johnson noted several variances. These differences occur mainly in the duration and intensity of each phase. For instance:

• Men generally experience a refractory period after orgasm, which is a time during which they are unable to achieve another orgasm. This period can vary in length depending on the individual's age and health.


• Women do not typically have a pronounced refractory period, which means they may experience multiple orgasms in a short span of time.


• The orgasm phase is generally guaranteed for men if intercourse continues, while it is not as assured for women.

Such differences highlight the complexity and diversity of human sexual experiences, showing the importance of understanding individual variability in sexual responses.

excitement and plateau phases

The excitement and plateau phases are the initial stages of the sexual response cycle, where arousal builds. During the excitement phase, there is a marked increase in muscle tension, heart rate, and blood flow to the genital region. Both men and women experience these changes, although there are some notable distinctions.

During the plateau phase, arousal reaches its peak before climax. Women often remain in this phase longer than men, which may result in heightened sensitivity and pleasure. This plateau can be a key part of enhancing the overall sexual experience for both partners.

Recognizing these phases helps individuals better understand their bodies and enhances the mutual experience of pleasure and intimacy.

refractory period concept

The refractory period is a well-documented phenomenon primarily observed in men. After reaching orgasm, men enter this phase where further arousal and orgasm are temporarily not possible. The length of the refractory period can vary greatly, influenced by factors such as age, overall health, and emotional state.

Notably, women generally do not experience a refractory period, enabling them to have multiple orgasms without the need for significant recovery time. This difference is one of the many ways male and female sexual responses diverge.

Understanding the concept of the refractory period can foster better sexual communication between partners. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing each other's unique physiological functions and pacing intimacy accordingly.