There is a large debate in the United States regarding the nature of sex in America. A recent survey revealed that nearly half of American adults have had sex at least once a month. In contrast, only 35 percent reported having sex at least once a month in 1989. Furthermore, more than half of American men and women say they have had sex with someone new, on more than one occasion. And in spite of the fact that Americans are generally more tolerant of one another than in past generations, some still believe that American sex is a source of shame.
A new survey by ABC News has shed light on the current state of American sex. Based on interviews with more than 3,000 adults, American sex practices are more varied than ever. It confirms conventional beliefs while also debunking myths. To learn more about how American sex life has changed over the years, read the full report from ABC News. There are some surprising facts, but the book is well worth a read.
The most striking findings are that older Americans are far more conservative about sex. While the majority of practicing Christians still associate marriage and sex, the younger cohort is detaching sex from marriage as a fundamental part of the American culture. Furthermore, Americans are more likely to view sex as a pleasurable experience and an important element of self-fulfillment. This is in contrast to the previous survey of older Americans.
Another study by the Louisville Repertory Company concludes the 20th anniversary season of the production of “Great American Sex Play” by Brian Walker, a playwright who penned the play. Originally produced by Walker’s Finnigan Productions, the production features a simplified script and a mature-grade audience rating. It’s also the first production to include gay people in its cast. Despite its title, “The Great American Sex Play” is intended for mature audiences only.
One survey found that most Americans are not running a sex fever. The current culture encourages us to think that more is better, but the Playboy survey dispels this notion. Another study found that a significant number of women consider emotional bonds and grinding as a form of cheating. So, the American sex culture isn’t all about “better” than our culture suggests. You’re still the best judge of what you’re comfortable doing and who’s not.
In this study, the American men rated their partners’ sex as “doggy-style” and “missionary” compared to their European counterparts. However, this trend was reversed for women. While males prefer to be “butt” than females, European men rated the missionary position higher than the cowgirl position. The second-most-favorable position for American men was held-up, while the least-favorite was “soldier.” Hence, the two countries share similar sex life.
Although sex was rarely discussed in the nineteenth century, it has become a popular activity throughout the 20th century. The rise of public high schools brought boys and girls together, creating greater intimacy than ever before. In 1900, less than 10 percent of Americans aged between fifteen and 18 attended public high schools, but in 1940, two-thirds did. This is a clear sign of the increasing acceptance of sex among teens. And the sex culture of the United States is far from inclusive of queer people.
Using Mary Calderone’s story as a touchstone, Ellen S. More examines the development of modern sex education in the United States. From this woman’s early days, SIECUS was formed. Its members eventually developed competing approaches to sex education. It is a timely and important book in this culture war. It also sheds light on the evolution of sex education in American schools and society.
Though public opinion in the U.S. supports sex education, there are still many barriers to its implementation. Despite the widespread acceptance of the practice, sex education is still not as widespread as many would like. While federal efforts to regulate sex education have not succeeded, the grassroots movement for sex education is continuing to grow. These advocates are hopeful that the debate surrounding sex education in the United States will improve public health.
