Question

What was a primary motivation for the early sexuality research in the United States?

1) A belief that sex was natural and should be approached from an educational perspective
2) A concern that sexuality transmitted infections would negatively impact family life
3) New information that found sexual orientation is a biological aspect of sexuality
4) A desire to change the repressive laws on sexuality at the turn of the century

Answer 1

Dr. Alfred Kinsey was motivated to research sexuality issues in order to promote open dialogue and education about human sexuality, which led to his groundbreaking books that initiated public conversation despite controversy.

Step-by-step explanation:

One of the primary motivations for early sexuality research in the United States was a conviction that people would benefit from a more open dialogue about human sexuality. Before the late 1940s, most knowledge about sex was based on personal experience or peer discussions, with very little scientific research informing the public. Dr. Alfred Kinsey of Indiana University, believing in the need for education and understanding, initiated large-scale survey research which resulted in the publication of his controversial books - Sexual Behavior in the Human Male and Sexual Behavior in the Human Female in 1948 and 1953, respectively. These books led to open conversations about human sexuality, despite some countries banning them and Kinsey eventually losing funding for his research efforts. Societies around the world hold varying standards on sexual behavior, indicating the cultural influences on sexual norms. However, historical influences such as religion, education, media, and peers play a strong role in shaping sexual attitudes.