Question 1

Research on sexual attraction suggests that a person's "sex appeal" is primarily determined by his or her _______.

Accepted Answer

Research consistently shows that physical appearance is the primary determinant of sexual attraction. Factors such as facial symmetry, body shape, and overall health are all important elements of a person's sex appeal. While factors such as social status, mental abilities, and personality may also play a role in attraction, they are considered secondary to physical appearance.

Question 2

When deciding whether to have sex for the first time, dating partners focus primarily on . . .

Accepted Answer

While attraction may play a role, the decision to have sex for the first time is often based on a sense of emotional connection and the level of commitment in the relationship. Family opinions and friends' sexual activity may be factors, but they are typically not the primary focus when making this decision.

Question 3

Saul recently joined an online dating service. So far, he has received information about four women who might be compatible with him. He has read their personal biographies and "sexual histories" and is ready to ask one of them out on a date. Which one will he probably choose?

Accepted Answer

Saul might choose Cathy because he could feel more comfortable dating someone who has had sex but not with multiple partners. It also suggests that she values sexual intimacy within the context of a committed relationship.

Question 4

The most attractive faces generally possess which features?

Accepted Answer

Studies have consistently shown that individuals with more symmetrical faces are generally perceived as more attractive.

Question 5

Ralph and Monica have also been dating for two years. However, they feel that sex without love is acceptable, and they began to have intercourse after their first date. This couple would probably be labeled _______ by researchers.

Accepted Answer

Ralph and Monica's attitude towards sex without love fits the definition of sexual liberalism, which is the belief in the individual's right to engage in sexual behavior without societal or religious constraints, stigma, or shame.

Question 6

Which one of the following general conclusions can we draw from research on preferences for chastity?

Accepted Answer

Research has shown that preferences for chastity have declined over time, with individuals placing less importance on it as a desirable trait in a potential mate. This trend has been observed across different cultures and across both men and women. Therefore, option B is the most accurate conclusion that can be drawn.

Question 7

What does research on preferences for sexual passion generally reveal?

Accepted Answer

Research on preferences for sexual passion generally reveals that men and women place roughly equal importance on sexual passion when considering a potential partner. This is supported by various studies on mate preferences and the significance of sexual attraction in romantic relationships.

Question 8

Many romantic couples report that _______ serves as an important marker or "turning point" signaling commitment.

Accepted Answer

The first episode of sexual intercourse is considered by many couples as an important marker or "turning point" signaling commitment because it involves a greater level of physical and emotional intimacy than other milestones such as the first time meeting or watching a movie together.

Question 9

Cross-cultural research suggests that chastity is still relatively highly valued, particularly as an attribute for women to possess, in which parts of the world?

Accepted Answer

Cross-cultural research suggests that chastity is still relatively highly valued, particularly as an attribute for women to possess, in parts of the world including the Middle East and Africa.

Question 10

Which of the following facial features is considered a sign of sexual maturity?

Accepted Answer

Prominent cheekbones are considered a sign of sexual maturity as they develop during puberty due to an increase in hormone levels.

Question 11

Cross-cultural research reveals that people in _______ countries tend to view chastity as a relatively more important attribute in a potential mate than do people in _______ countries.

Accepted Answer

Cross-cultural research indicates that people in collectivist societies, which often emphasize group goals and interdependence, tend to value chastity more in a potential mate compared to those in individualist societies, where personal goals and independence are more highly valued.

Question 12

Kevin and Gwen have been dating for two years. They have decided not to have intercourse and to limit their sexual activities to kissing and light "petting." This couple would probably be labeled _______ by researchers.

Accepted Answer

Kevin and Gwen have chosen to limit their sexual activities to kissing and light "petting," which is consistent with traditional sexual values that prioritize abstinence or limited sexual activity outside of marriage. Sexual liberalism would involve a more permissive attitude towards sexual behavior, while rapid or gradual involvement would refer to the pace of the relationship's progression towards sexual intimacy.

Question 13

Jessica and Seth have just begun dating. Based on research discussed in the textbook, which of the following events will mark an important change in the commitment level or stage of their relationship?

Accepted Answer

According to research, the initiation of sexual activity is often seen as a symbol of moving from a casual dating relationship to a more committed one.

Question 14

According to research, _______ is often viewed by both men and women as an important component of men's attractiveness.

Accepted Answer

According to research, muscularity is often viewed by both men and women as an important component of men's attractiveness.

Question 15

According to research on sexual attraction, which one of the following people would probably be viewed as most attractive?

Accepted Answer

According to research on sexual attraction, individuals with symmetrical facial features are viewed as more attractive. Becky, who is normal weight and has symmetrical facial features, would likely be viewed as the most attractive option compared to Tom, who is very thin and has "average" facial features; Eliza, who is overweight and has a typical WHR; and Walter, who is normal weight but has a prominent nose.

Question 16

Which one of the following statements about waist-to-hip ratio is INaccurate?

Accepted Answer

After puberty, males tend to have a lower waist-to-hip ratio than females. Therefore, the statement "After puberty, both sexes exhibit a very similar waist-to-hip ratio" is inaccurate.

Question 17

Lucia is attracted to her new boyfriend but she is still not sure whether she should have sex with him, though he clearly wants her to. Which of the following reasons might explain her uncertainty?

Accepted Answer

Lucia's uncertainty may be due to feeling that there is an insufficient level of commitment in the relationship.

Question 18

Below is a list of facial features. Which characteristics would probably be considered attractive by most adults?
(1) symmetrical features
(2) large eyes
(3) large nose
(4) smallish nose
(5) thinner cheeks
(6) "average" features
(7) prominent cheekbones
(8) "uni-brow"
(9) small, narrow-set eyes

Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that adults generally find symmetrical features, large eyes, smaller and proportionate nose, prominent cheekbones, and thinner cheeks to be attractive. "Uni-brow" and small, narrow-set eyes are not typically viewed as attractive features. "Average" features can vary depending on cultural and societal standards of beauty. Therefore, option D includes all the features that are probably considered attractive by most adults.

Question 19

Sexually _______ couples wait a while before engaging in sexual intercourse and generally view love (rather than long-term commitment) as a sufficient reason for becoming sexually intimate with one another.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Sexually _______ couples wait a while before...

Question 20

Researchers who have investigated the concept of "sex appeal" have found that . . .

Accepted Answer

Studies have consistently shown that appearance is the primary determinant of both male and female sex appeal. While other factors such as intelligence and sense of humor can contribute, physical attractiveness remains the most important factor.

Quiz 11: Sex in Beginning Relationships