Human Sexuality in a Diverse World

Sexuality Now

Human Sexuality in a Diverse World

Human Sexuality in a Diverse World Подпись: he Pfizer Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors (Pfizer, 2002) was the first global survey to study sexual behavior, attitudes, beliefs, and relationship satisfaction among more than 26,000 men and women age 40 to 80. Interviews and surveys were conducted in 29 countries representing all world regions. This study found that more than 80% of men and 60% of women claimed sex was an important part of their overall lives. The highest ratings for the importance of sex came from Korea, whereas the lowest ratings came from Hong Kong. The survey also found that physical and emotional Подпись: satisfaction in a relationship was higher among those who reported better health. This supported Pfizer's conclusions that sexual health and satisfaction have an impact on men's and women's emotional and physical health (see Figures 2.1 and 2.2). Note that 37% of respondents from Hong Kong and 87% of respondents from Korea rated sex "very," "extremely," or "moderately important." Why might these differences exist? SOURCE: Pfizer, The Pfizer Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behavior, 2002. Used by permission.

The Pfizer Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors

In 2002, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals did the most comprehensive global study of sexual­ity to date (see the accompanying Human Sexuality in a Diverse World). The Pfizer Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors surveyed over 26,000 men and women in 28 countries. This study was the first global survey to assess behaviors, attitudes, beliefs, and sexual satisfaction. Surveys assessed the importance of sex and intimacy in relation­ships, attitudes and beliefs about sexual health, and treatment-seeking behaviors for sex­ual dysfunctions, and provided an international baseline regarding sexual attitudes to compare various countries and also monitor cultural changes over time.

Human Sexuality in a Diverse WorldQuestion: How could an entire culture’s attitudes about sex dif­fer from those of another culture? I can understand how there might be individual variations, but could there really be significant cultural differences?

Yes, there could. It makes more sense when you think about two very different types of cultures (Triandis et al., 1990). A collectivist cul­ture (e. g., India, Pakistan, Thailand, or the Philippines) emphasizes the culture as a whole and thinks less about the individuals within that society. In contrast, an individualistic cul­ture (e. g., United States, Australia, or England) stresses the goals of individuals over the culture as a whole. This cultural difference can affect the way that sexuality is viewed.

For example, a culture such as India may value marriage because it is good for the social standing of members of the society, whereas a marriage in the United States is valued because the two people love each other and want to spend their lives together.

Updated: 03.11.2015 — 22:52