Sexuality in Two Societies
Sexually Repressive
Menstruation and menopause are sources of fear.
Only babies are allowed to bathe nude.
Adults only wash the parts of their body that aren't covered by clothing.
Believe Sex is poor for health.
Inis Beag & Mangaia
Sexually Permissive
Sexual Behavior
Inis Beag
- Foreplay: Kissing and rough fondeling of the buttocks.
- Husband initiates activity.
- Both partners keep underwear on.
- Man has orgasm quickly, and falls asleep directly after.
- Female orgasm is either believed to be deviant or non-existant.
Where does the U.S. Fall?
Mangaia
- Boys are allowed to masturbate by age 8 or 9.
- At age 13, boys go through a rite of passage during which they receive sexual instruction.
- Female orgasm is important. They receive training that teaches them to have an orgasm.
- Bringing the female to orgasm is one of the man's chief sources of sexual pleasure.
- Have sex almost every night, with about 3 orgasms per night.
- What is desired? "The Washing Machine"
- Girls: 3 or 4 BFs between 13 and 20 y/o. They are encouraged to have sexual experiences with several men.
Discussion
Could the restrictiveness of the Inis Beag have a psychological effect?
Could the permissiveness of the Mangaia have a psychological effect?
What would it be like for an American to live in one of these cultures?