Answer to Question 1
- Although sexual activity can continue well into one's 90s and beyond, the aging process does have some predictable effects on sexual responding. In general, the response cycle, as described by Masters and Johnson, slows down. The stages of response take longer, the intensity of sensation may be reduced, and the genitals may become somewhat less sensitive. Although sexual excitement and orgasm may be slightly subdued, they are no less pleasurable. Indeed, for many people, the later years can offer a rich sex life without the worry of pregnancy and the inconvenience of contraception. However, it is important to remember that the risk of acquiring HIV and other STIs does not disappear with age.
- In older women, menopause results in drops in estrogen and progesterone, causing physiological changes that affect sexual function. These hormone-related changes include thinning of the vaginal lining, reduced elasticity of the vagina, and decreased lubrication, sometimes resulting in discomfort or pain during intercourse. Urinary incontinence may also occur (because of reduced estrogen), as well as loss of libido (because of reduced testosterone). All of these changes are reversible and treatable if they are interfering with enjoyment of sexual activities.
- In men, the time to achieve erection increases, and the period of time between orgasms lengthens. Most men as they age require more direct stimulation of the penis for erection, whereas at younger ages, mere visual or fantasy images were sufficient.
Answer to Question 2
Signs of an abusive teen dating relationship:
- Is one partner afraid of the other or scared to break up?
- Does one partner call the other names, make the other feel stupid, or tell the other that he or she cannot do anything right?
- Is one partner excessively jealous?
- Does one partner tell the other where he or she can and cannot go or whom he or she can and cannot be with or talk to?
- Does one partner tell the other that no one else would ever go out with him or her?
- Is one partner being cut off from friends and family by the other partner?
- Does one partner feel that saying no to sexual activities will result in trouble or danger?
- Does one partner feel pushed or forced into sexual activity?
- Does one partner say that the other caused the abuse?
- Does one partner shove, grab, hit, pinch, hold down, or kick the other?
- Is one partner really nice sometimes and really mean at other times (almost like two different people or personalities)?
- Does one partner make frequent promises to change or say that he or she will never hurt the other again? Does one partner say that the other is making too big a deal out of the abuse?
What you can do to help someone you think may be in an abusive relationship:
- Remember, anyone can be a victim.
- If you or someone you know might be affected by relationship violence, look for resources that can provide help. School counselors, parents, teachers, women's shelters, and clergy are all potential sources of assistance.
- Tell someone you trust and whom you feel can intervene, such as a local domestic violence agency. Try to get help as soon as possible before the violence increases.
- By reaching out, you may literally save your own or someone else's life.
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