Final answer:
The key difference lies in sex being a biological concept describing physiological differences between males and females, whereas coital behaviors refer to the actions and preferences associated with sexual activities. Additionally, the concept of gender as a social construct must be distinguished from sex, as it encompasses the cultural roles and behaviors attributed to different sexes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference Between Sex and Coital Behaviors: The terms sex and coital behaviors may often be closely related but represent different concepts. Sex is a biological term referring to the physical and physiological differences between males and females, including primary and secondary sex characteristics. This encompasses attributes such as the reproductive system, as well as height and muscularity. Coital behaviors, on the other hand, are related to the actual sexual acts or intercourse that typically involve arousal, heart rate, and blood pressure changes, among other physiological responses. Sexual response and arousal can differ greatly between individuals, showing variation in intensity, duration, and even the specific nature of arousal. For instance, males show specific arousal while females display non-specific arousal. Additionally, sexual behaviors and preferences are varied and can include elements such as the frequency of sex, the importance of sex in one's identity, and the types of sexual encounters one prefers, whether spontaneous or scripted. Furthermore, it's crucial to differentiate between sex and gender. While sex is based on biological differences, gender refers to the socially and culturally constructed roles, behaviors, and attributes that a society considers appropriate for men and women. These gender roles are learned and can vary widely across different cultures and time periods.