Sexual arousal
Sexuality affects our feelings about ourselves as either female or male and typically develops as we grow through various stages of life. In this paper, I will explain sexual arousal and the various factors which work together to bring about sexual response. I will also explore the cause of a decrease in sexual functions (Rathus, A., Nevid, S., and Fichner-Rathus, L. 2005, p. 2).
Just like other aspects of physical development e.g. increases in height and weight, sexual development is also significant for one’s health (Hill, 2008, p. 63). As we mature our emotions, perceptions, and needs continuously change. During adolescence the genitals; penis and testicles, vagina, breasts, and ovaries mature. Teenagers often find themselves attracted to the opposite sex or being tempted to try out sexual activity. Social factors and hormonal changes more often than not create a lot of pressure on many adolescents. It is during this time that many teenagers experience being loved and their first exposures to sexual touch and advances which too seem exciting. People are very responsive to what they see and even when touched and thus the brain is central to arousal (Kinsey, 1953 p. 18). At varying magnitudes, each of our senses affects our sexual experiences. Some people may simply be aroused by the sight of an attractive person.
Drugs and Hormones influence the behavior that is expressed by each individual. Sex hormones produce sexual responses and control sexual desire. Two main hormones control sexual responses; in men, testosterone and estrogen in women (Hill, 2008 p. 34). Thoughts and body responses to sexual arousal are common and one needs not be embarrassed about such changes. However, the onset of these body changes poses a risk to adolescence in contemporary society. Unplanned pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, abortion, rape, and emotional stress resulting from the fear of consequences of such behavior form part of the dangers that one should have in mind and be prepared to deal with while making every decision.
Lack of Sexual Interest
Many people have sexual problems, persistent difficulties in becoming sexually aroused are referred to as sexual dysfunction. People affected by this condition may opt-out of sexual encounters for fear of embarrassment and failure to satisfy their partners. Persistent feelings of fear and frustration may follow which compounds the problem. In addition, physical changes such as weight gain may cause anxiety hence affecting sexual activity (Rathus, A., et al 2005, p. 493).
Genetic and psychosocial factors for instance depression, stress, performance anxiety, and hormonal deficiencies may affect sexual interest. As men advance in years testosterone levels decreases which partly explains why sexual dysfunction is prevalent later in life (Wincze, P., & Carey, P. 2001, p. 235). In men, the more anxious one is, the higher the chances of sexual dysfunction. Infections may affect sexual interest by causing pain during coitus as well as health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Endocrine disorders which may prejudice the production of testosterone and treatments regimens for hypertension also may reduce sexual interest (Rathus, A., et al 2005, p. 503).
Alcohol, morphine, and other central nervous system depressants may decrease sexual arousal.
Physical examination by gynecologists or urologists is essential to determine the etiology of reduced sexual interest. Treatment of lack of sexual interest rages from chemical to behavioral regimens and psychotherapy (Bancroft, 2009, p. 236). In practical terms, one should address the physical aspects which may reduce sexual activity e.g. by performing regular exercises which may reduce stress. Drugs may also b used on prescription from a physician e.g. sildenafil commonly known as Viagra is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Men need to realize that occasional cases of lack of sexual interest occur and therefore take them as temporary disappointments. However persistent occurrences call for attention from medical practitioners for assessment.
Reference list
Bancroft, J. (2009). Human sexuality and its problems. 3rd ed. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
Hill, C. A. (2008). Human sexuality: personality and social psychological perspectives. Los Angeles: Sage Publications.
Kinsey, A. C. (1953). Sexual behavior in the human female. Philadelphia: Saunders.
Rathus, S. A., Nevid, J.S., and Fichner-Rathus, L. (2005). Human sexuality in a world of diversity. (6th ed.) Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
Wincze, J. P., & Carey, M. P. (2001). Sexual Dysfunction: a guide for assessment and treatment. 2nd ed. New York: Guilford Press.