The Sexual Double Standard
1. As a homework assignment, ask students to keep a diary for one week of media portrayals of male and female sexuality, paying particular attention to how sexual desire and pleasure are portrayed and writing down depictions or comments they hear and see on radio, tv or in the movies. (An alternative to this activity would be to show clips in class of sex scenes from films featuring popular teen stars and have students analyze what happens in these scenes. Some suggestions would be: Titanic, Six Days, Seven Nights, Summer Fling, Something About Mary, Varsity Blues.)
2. At the end of the week, ask students to bring their diaries to class. What conclusions do they draw about what the media has to say about male and female sexual desire and pleasure? Ask them to give examples from their diaries to support their conclusions. Write their suggestions where everyone can see them.
3. Have students read, "Sexual Stereotypes Stop Females from Feeling Pleasure"on Page 5. Use the following questions to guide discussion:
Do the conclusions in the article match or contradict the conclusions we came to by keeping track of media portrayals of male and female sexuality?
Does the article reflect your experience with how people feel about talking about male vs. female sexual pleasure?
Why do you think people are comfortable talking about male sexual desire and pleasure, but not as comfortable talking about female sexual desire and pleasure?
Why do you think there is such a double standard? (If necessary, explore with students the meaning of the term "double standard".)
What effect do you think the sexual double standard has on females? On males? On relationships? On sex?
Do you think the sexual double standard affects gay and lesbian individuals or couples? How?
What are the signs of male sexual arousal? What kinds of sexual stimulation play a role in male orgasm?
What are the signs of female sexual arousal? What kinds of sexual stimulation play a role in female orgasm? What role does lubrication of the vagina play in intercourse? What can happen if there isn�t sufficient sexual arousal to cause lubrication of the vagina before intercourse begins?
Is vaginal intercourse the most important sexual activity in terms of female orgasm? In terms of male orgasm? Explain.
What do you think Dr. Whipple means when she says that "people, especially teens, are so focused on sexual intercourse (where the goal is for the guy to have an orgasm) that they forget there are other ways to experience pleasure?"
Do you agree or disagree with Dr. Whipple when she says that talking will lead to better sex? Explain your answer.
