AP Psychology Practice Test

What are the four stages of the sexual response cycle described by Masters and Johnson?

1. Excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution

2. Birth, growth, maturity, and decline

3. Introduction, rise, climax, and conclusion

4. Inhalation, plateau, exhalation, and rest

The correct answer is: Excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution

The correct answer is based on the foundational model developed by William Masters and Virginia Johnson, which outlines the sexual response cycle as consisting of four distinct stages: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. In the excitement phase, physiological responses and sexual arousal begin, which can include increased heart rate and blood flow to the sexual organs. The plateau phase follows, where arousal intensifies, and there may be heightened sensitivity and muscle tension. This is succeeded by the orgasm stage, characterized by a peak in sexual pleasure and the release of sexual tension. Finally, the resolution phase occurs, during which the body gradually returns to its pre-arousal state, and feelings of relaxation and well-being often follow. The other options do not accurately reflect the stages of the sexual response cycle. For instance, the stages listed in the second choice refer to the life cycle of an organism rather than sexual function. The third choice appears to use non-standard terminology that does not correspond to known psychological or sexual response models, and the final option introduces terms related to breathing rather than sexual response. Thus, the stages identified in the correct answer align well with the empirical research on human sexual response.