Masters and Johnson's Research on Human Sexual Response

Background

• 1950s Research Challenges:
  • Conducting sex research in the 1950s presented challenges due to societal norms.
  • Masters and Johnson began their work at Washington University in 1957.
  • Initial concerns about finding volunteers were quickly alleviated as many ordinary people volunteered.
  • Fraternity pledges were sometimes sent by their groups but were screened out.

Research Methodology

• Observational Study:
  • Over a ten-year period, 700 male and female subjects were observed in laboratory settings.
  • Masters and Johnson studied over 10,000 orgasms.
  • Pioneered filming internal female orgasms using a clear plastic artificial penis with a light and camera.

Societal Perception and Secrecy

• Conducted in Secrecy:
  • The research was kept secret to avoid scandal.
  • Masters gained support from the university and local clergy to shield the project.
• Reproductive Biology Research Foundation:
  • In 1964, Masters moved the project off-campus.
  • Funded by private donations and grants; Masters supported himself through his gynecological practice.

Publication and Impact

• Publication Challenges:
  • Prestigious journals initially rejected their papers.
  • In 1966, they published "Human Sexual Response" due to more liberal attitudes towards sex.
• Book's Reception:
  • Written as a medical textbook in scientific language to avoid sensationalism.
  • Released 15,000 copies sold out in one day; 250,000 copies in the first year.
  • Stayed on the bestseller list for six months.

Revolutionary Findings

• Four Phases of Orgasm:
  • Detailed physiological responses in each phase.
  • Overturned misconceptions about female sexuality, including Freud's notions on orgasms.
  • Highlighted that an orgasm is the same physiologically regardless of stimulation type.
  • Publicized many women's ability for multiple orgasms.

Cultural Shift and Legacy

• Cultural Impact:
  • Arrived at a time when America was changing its sexual mores.
  • Provided women with a sense of entitlement and inclination to pursue orgasm.

Controversy and Public Reaction

• Public Controversy:
  • While a bestseller, the book was also controversial and elicited negative mail.
  • 80% of the responding mail was negative.

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This study by Masters and Johnson was groundbreaking in both its scientific rigor and its cultural impact, challenging long-held beliefs and contributing significantly to the sexual revolution of the 1960s.