SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR Meaning and
Definition
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Sexual behavior refers to any actions, activities, or expressions that are related to or involve sex, sexuality, and sexual desires. It encompasses a broad range of actions and behaviors that individuals engage in, both privately and with others. Sexual behavior is an intrinsic aspect of human nature and is influenced by several factors including biological, psychological, cultural, and social influences.
Sexual behavior can include various activities such as sexual intercourse, oral sex, masturbation, foreplay, kissing, fondling, and other forms of physical and intimate contact. It also extends beyond physical actions and includes the expression of sexual desires, fantasies, and emotions, both verbally and non-verbally. Elements of sexual behavior can be consensual and mutually desired between adults, or non-consensual and unwanted, falling under the category of sexual abuse or assault.
Sexual behavior is strongly influenced by individual preferences, attitudes, and beliefs, as well as societal norms and cultural values. It can vary widely between different individuals and cultures, and can also change over time. Some individuals may engage in sexual behaviors as a means to establish emotional intimacy and connection with a partner, while others may seek immediate gratification or explore different forms of sexual pleasure.
Understanding sexual behavior is significant for various reasons, including promoting healthy sexual relationships, preventing sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies, addressing issues of sexual violence and consent, and promoting sexual health and well-being for individuals and society at large.
Etymology of SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR
The term "sexual behavior" consists of two distinct components: "sexual" and "behavior".
1. Sexual:
The word "sexual" is derived from the Latin word "sexualis", which comes from "sexus", meaning "gender" or "the state of being male or female". The Latin root can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European (PIE) word "sek(w)-", meaning "to cut" or "to separate", indicative of the division into male and female categories.
2. Behavior:
The term "behavior" originates from the Middle English word "behavioure", which stems from the Anglo-French word "behaivor", meaning "deportment" or "conduct". It further traces back to the Old French word "comporter", derived from "com-", suggesting "with", and "porter", meaning "to carry" or "to bear".
