Psychology 2075 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Gender Role, Industrial Revolution, Sex Tourism

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 2075
• Professor: William Fisher

Document Summary

Sociobiologists think sexual behaviours as the product of natural selection in evolution, and view these behavioural patterns as being genetically controlled. Evolutionary theorists think sexual behaviour as a result of an interaction between evolved mechanisms and environmental influence. Freud"s psychoanalytic theory views the sex energy (libido) as a major influence on personality and behaviour. It was freud that introduced the concepts of erogenous zones and psychosexual stages of development. Learning theory thinks sexual behaviour is learned and modified through reinforcements and punishments according to principles of operant conditioning. Behaviour therapy techniques therapies based on learning theory are used in treating sexual variations and sexual disorders. Social learning theory adds the concepts of imitation, identification and self-efficacy to learning theory. Social exchange theory highlights the role of rewards and costs in relationships. Cognitive psychologists focus on people"s thoughts and perceptions (positive/negative) and how they influence sexuality. Sociologists think of ways in which society influences our sexual expression.