Differences in Behavior
Whereas past research has indicated that males initiated sexual activity at younger ages and
engaged in sexual behavior more frequently, recent research suggests that these differences are
changing (or were perhaps just differences in reporting). Men continue to report higher levels of
extramarital sexual activity, and they appear to think more often about sex, though certainly not
nearly to the degree that is commonly believed (Fisher, Moore, & Pittenger, 2012). While
members of both sexes tend to become more aroused by a new partner, variety in sexual partners
is considered more appealing to men (Schmitt et al., 2003). Indeed, men consistently report
having had more sexual partners than women.
Men also report higher prevalence and frequency of masturbation at all ages. In addition, men
are more likely to report viewing erotic material. Some scientists believe that this is due to a
greater male need for variety in sexual partners and stimuli, whereas others suggest that most
erotic material has been designed for a male audience.