Psychology

(DQ1) Among the most interesting facts about sexual anatomy is that throughout early stages of development, both male and female sexual organs arise from an identical source or origin (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). Expectedly, most individuals would not expect such due to the evident differences of both types of sexual organs. Also, it is interesting to point out that the clitoris and the penis are analogous in terms of general form and erectile capability (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). Definitely, not all would notice such a similarity. Lastly, it is necessary to add to such interesting points that the vulva is relatively unique for every woman (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). Basically, if people would know of the aforementioned facts regarding the sexual organs, then it would be most probable that an increased appreciation of both similarities between genders and female uniqueness may be developed throughout society.

(DQ2) Throughout history, such as in Greek mythology, a large penis has been perceived as a positive symbol of reproduction (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). However, in reality, the size of the penis may not be of much value in relation to the satisfaction of women during intercourse after all. Specifically, it has been determined through actual studies that penis size is not directly proportional to female sexual satisfaction due to the fact that the outer part of the female organ, near the orifice, is most sensitive to stimulation then both small and large penises may be able to provide the same satisfaction (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). In addition to such, men with penises that are too long would most probably have problems with partner discomfort and of course a limited capability to provide stimulation throughout the whole shaft during copulation.

(DQ3) Definitely, different phrases instill different connotations. For example, given the act of female genital cutting, if one would assume a stance against such an act then using the term female genital mutilation would be most appropriate. In contrast, if one would choose to support female genital cutting then it utilizing the term female genital alteration is the best course of action. Thus, while both terms basically refer to the same act, the use of words with either negative or neutral connotations may indeed develop varied initial thoughts or abstract concepts regarding such terms. In relation to this, the society may also probably eventually perceive a common term such as male circumcision in a negative manner if individuals would begin to refer to it as male genital mutilation.  

(DQ4) While certain experts may disregard the potential reproductive function of the clitoris (Hyde  Delemater, 2006), conceptualizing possible reproductive functions are not impossible to accomplish. For one, the clitoris is a point of stimulation during sexual intercourse. In this sense, if the act of sex in part depends upon perceptions regarding pleasure and arousal in order to be regarded as satisfying and appealing, then the presence of the clitoris may be associated with improving the perception of women upon engaging in such acts. Therefore, the clitoris may have a reproductive function in relation to further improving the acceptability of sexual intercourse and in effect increasing the chances of women to consider engaging in reproductive acts.  

(DQ5) Considering the importance of maintaining health and survival over other aspects of life, then regardless of ones religion it would be inappropriate to undergo clitoridectomy and infibulation. In this sense, it would only be correct to attempt to change such religious or cultural practices for the benefit of individuals. Particularly, it is a general fact that religion and culture change throughout history while in contrast the parameters through which the health of an individual may be compromised have been constant throughout the centuries. Given the point that thoughts and perceptions are malleable, then it would not be inappropriate to consider the possibility of changing supportive views regarding clitoridectomy and infibulations into a perspective that focuses upon human health and welfare.  

Discussion Questions  Chapter 5
(DQ1) Hormones are substances that initiate specific changes throughout the body specifically, such chemical substances are dispersed throughout the bloodstream so as to affect specific sites such as the reproductive organs (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). Of course, the specificity of hormones is a result of various factors. In particular, the actions of hormones may be driven through the presence of inhibitors as well as chemical regulators which are also produced within the human body and differs to a degree between genders (Hyde  Delemater, 2006).

(DQ2) The initialization of masculinity, in the context of a developing fetus, is dependent upon the actions of certain chromosomes. Specifically, throughout prenatal development the presence of the Y chromosome determines whether male features, especially in terms of the sex organ, would be formed (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). In relation to such, it is perceivable that scenarios wherein the male chromosome is missing or defective do occur. In such cases, genetic defects may probably arise which may result in the presence of deformities in the male genitalia leading to the possibility becoming an intersex (Hyde  Delemater, 2006).

(DQ3) From the aforementioned findings, it would be appropriate to conclude that gender related psychological development occurs after the initial phases of gender differentiation from a physiological perspective. Of course, it such a point would matter in relation to the understanding of human development. Specifically, through such knowledge and findings regarding gender differences, one would be able to determine distinctions among biological and sociological aspects of human development as changes associated with the brain would most likely be mainly attained through the environment rather than innate biological conditions.

(DQ4) Weight gain, which peaks at the age of twelve, due to the accumulation of fats throughout various parts of the body such as the breasts and the buttocks as well as overall growth is a common phenomenon for girls during puberty (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). However, due to the presence of societal pressure in relation to the need of attaining a slim figure so as to be perceived in a positive manner, girls may tend to view such changes negatively. Such changes in weight most probably do not concern boys as much though, of which growth commonly expected to be later than girls despite such though, boys also develop a degree of discomfort due to acne, erections, and even nocturnal emissions (Hyde  Delemater, 2006).

(DQ5) Nocturnal emissions are not commonly associated with women and thus locating information regarding such as well as finding a term used to pertain to such an occurrence are troublesome pursuits. Of course, there are probable reasons which may be given so as to explain why nocturnal emissions among women have been overlooked. In terms of biological aspects, while it would be easy to determine that orgasm during sleep has occurred among males due to the release of semen, women on the other hand may in fact have an orgasm without the release of a distinctively detectable fluid or sign. From a sociological perspective, it is a generally known concept or thought that men are most commonly associated with an evident capability of achieving orgasm in contrast women which may require further stimulation prior to reaching such a state.

(DQ6) Sex, albeit being a broad term, basically refers to the biological act wherein men and women engage in reproductive pursuits. However, given a more sociologically oriented approach, concepts regarding pleasure and satisfaction as well as an appreciation of the body may also be associated with the aforementioned term. Hence, sex may be defined as both an act that is accomplished for procreation and an activity which involves gratification and bliss with or without the need to achieve conception.

(DQ7) The adrenal gland contributes and in part controls the sex drive of women through the production of androgen, as well as adrenaline hence the name of the gland, which affects sexual desire (Hyde  Delemater, 2006). Basically, both men and women have such a gland and the substances produced, generally for the same purposes, are the same albeit in different proportions. It is also interesting and vital to note that the main male sex hormones are generally considered and classified as androgens as well.

(DQ8) Considering the presence of other conditions which require more immediate attention as well as the current problems regarding the economy and the allocation budget for health related concerns, it would not be proper to force health insurance to entirely cover transsexual surgery. Specifically, such a perspective regarding the issue has been conceptualized in relation to the consideration that the issue is more of a psychological concern rather than being biological in nature. In this sense, it is probable that the best way of handling such an issue would be for insurance firms to offer programs that are specifically tailored for individuals with such concerns instead of merely providing a generalized program.