Sexology, the fascinating exploration of human sexual behavior and sexuality, is a term that evokes both intrigue and a hint of societal restraint. Delving into the realm of human sexual behavior entails dissecting and comprehending our desires, impulses, and fervor. While sexology may appear contemporary and innovative, it grapples with a common issue seen in various fields—it's predominantly centered around the male perspective. However, times are evolving, and women are rightfully claiming their positions in research, exemplified by the evolution of the Sexual Response Cycle (SRC).
The SRC initially took shape through the pioneering work of Masters and Johnson, whom you might recognize as the inspiration behind the TV series "Masters of Sex." Their research catapulted sexology into the scientific limelight. Although their model wasn't directly inspired by the opening scene in "Bridesmaids," where Annie endures an unsatisfying encounter, there were parallels in their conclusions. The classic SRC model is relatively straightforward, consisting of four stages: desire, arousal, orgasm, and resolution, sequenced in that order (refer to Figure 1).
While the simplicity of this model has its merits, it is not without its valid criticisms. Firstly, it is considered an adequate model for men but fails to capture the experiences of many women. Studies indicate that men and women often differ in their patterns of sexual desire. Men typically experience spontaneous desire, which can erupt suddenly, whereas women are believed to have responsive desire (Basson, 2000). Responsive desire arises in response to sexual stimuli, whether emotional or physical, rather than spontaneously. While some women do report experiencing spontaneous desire, this model often proves less accurate in long-term relationships (Basson, 2001).
A second critique revolves around the SRC model's emphasis on achieving the "big O" as the primary goal of sexual encounters. Allow me to clarify; I'm not asserting that orgasms lack significance—they most certainly do. However, the excessive focus on orgasms can sometimes detract from the broader experience of intimacy. There are numerous motives for engaging in sexual activity beyond the pursuit of an orgasm. For instance, a study titled "Why Humans Have Sex" revealed that reasons such as "expressing love for the partner" and "displaying affection for the partner" were more commonly cited by both men and women than the pursuit of orgasm (Meston & Buss, 2007). While orgasms undoubtedly represent a delightful outcome of sexual activity, they should be viewed as a delightful addition. The objective of sex should encompass whatever fulfills one's emotional or physical needs, or both. By shifting our perspective to regard orgasms as a bonus rather than the ultimate destination, every intimate encounter can become a more personal and fulfilling experience.
Evidently, the current model is ripe for an update. Fortunately, Dr. Rosemary Basson, the director of the University of British Columbia Sexual Medicine Program and a professor at UBC, has proposed an alternative SRC model (see Figure 2). Although this model appears more intricate, Dr. Basson acknowledges and embraces the multifaceted nature of human sexuality. One of the model's significant advantages is its non-linear structure, devoid of a distinct beginning or end. It eliminates the prerequisite of spontaneous desire and refrains from making orgasm the ultimate endpoint.
Upon examining the model, one can discern the absence of a fixed starting point for desire. While desire may still occasionally commence spontaneously, such as through sexual dreams or fantasies, or when thinking about individuals like Jon Hamm or Dua Lipa (just to name a few), it is not the sole pathway. Sexual activity can initiate through stimuli like foreplay or erotic communication, sparking desire as a result. It can also stem from a desire for emotional and physical gratification (Basson, 2001). This means that even when desire doesn't naturally arise at a given moment, a desire to engage in sexual activity for emotional and physical satisfaction can lead to a subsequent emergence of desire.
The Basson model still has a ways to go before it replaces the traditional Masters and Johnson model, but ongoing research in this area is showing promise. While it's a positive start, there remains a substantial need for more research that examines both men's and women's experiences. Nevertheless, the evolving understanding of the sexual response cycle represents a significant step toward more satisfying and inclusive sexual experiences. Here's to embracing the path toward more fulfilling intimacy than Annie's on-screen encounters.