Date of Award

Spring 2021

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Sociology, Anthropology & Criminal Justice; College of Arts & Sciences

First Advisor

Dr. Dina Pinsky

Abstract

This research paper aims to discuss and bring awareness to orgasm representation within heterosexual pornography that is specifically labeled for female consumption. Major areas of focus are on the orgasm gap and clitoral stimulation, sexual satisfaction in heterosexual relationships, and aggressive and violent behaviors depicted in pornography and sexual interactions. These areas are crucial because current research is lacking; it is necessary for more research to be conducted that focuses on orgasm representation and satisfaction. If realistic depictions of sexual intercourse are shown in pornographic content, it may bring expectations for consumers that could lead to higher rates of sexual satisfaction for all parties. Depictions of orgasm were recorded and observed through the viewing of popular pornographic videos from a mainstream pornography website. Orgasms per gender were classified based on their category of overt versus ambiguous, then further broken down into groups based on visual and auditory displays of pleasure. This research hopes to answer as to which sex has higher orgasm representation in pornography and how these results contribute to false narratives in terms of sexual expectations and satisfaction.

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“I’ll Have What She’s Having!”: Depictions of Orgasm in Heterosexual Pornography Labeled for Female Consumption

This research paper aims to discuss and bring awareness to orgasm representation within heterosexual pornography that is specifically labeled for female consumption. Major areas of focus are on the orgasm gap and clitoral stimulation, sexual satisfaction in heterosexual relationships, and aggressive and violent behaviors depicted in pornography and sexual interactions. These areas are crucial because current research is lacking; it is necessary for more research to be conducted that focuses on orgasm representation and satisfaction. If realistic depictions of sexual intercourse are shown in pornographic content, it may bring expectations for consumers that could lead to higher rates of sexual satisfaction for all parties. Depictions of orgasm were recorded and observed through the viewing of popular pornographic videos from a mainstream pornography website. Orgasms per gender were classified based on their category of overt versus ambiguous, then further broken down into groups based on visual and auditory displays of pleasure. This research hopes to answer as to which sex has higher orgasm representation in pornography and how these results contribute to false narratives in terms of sexual expectations and satisfaction.