In the annals of sexuality research, there are many unsung heroes whose contributions have shaped our understandings and practices of sexuality today. Among them stands out Dr. June Dobbs Butch, a pioneering figure whose work left an indelible mark on the field of sexology. In fact, Wednesday Martin argued that the research of Dr. Butt had the same importance as that of Masters and Johnson and Alfred Kinsey. She may have been the leading sex researcher to focus on exploring the sexual experiences of Black Americans, and she also played a pioneering role in bringing sex research to wider public awareness. From her reproductive health advocacy to her holistic approach to sex therapy, Batz will remain a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
In Sex and Psychology, we’ve highlighted some of the ‘hidden figures’ in sex research that you might not have heard of. For example, see our previous blogs highlighting the important work of Shere Hite who surveyed over 3000 women about sex and masturbation in the 1970s and Virginia Johnson who is perhaps best known for her work on some of the more seminal studies and publications in sex research with William Masters. This week, we will focus on Dr. June Dobbs Butts.
Life and Education
June Dobbs Butt was a therapist, family counselor, researcher, professor, and one of the first African-American sexologists. Born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1928, she grew up in a family deeply committed to social activism and community service [1, 2]. Her parents were Irene and John Wesley Dobbs, one of Atlanta’s most prominent African-American leaders before the civil rights movement [2]. These formative influences instilled in Butch a sense of duty to advocate for marginalized communities.
Batz continued her education with zeal, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Spelman College in 1948 and a Master of Science in social work from Atlanta University in 1949. [1]. The family set a record with June and her five sisters all graduating from the same college. After graduation, she worked with her friend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whom he affectionately referred to as ML The two worked together as paid interviewers supporting a study by a professor they knew at the time. She returned to graduate school after raising her children, earning her doctorate from Columbia in 1969 in family life education [1]. Her academic pursuits laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to addressing social inequities, particularly in the field of public health.
Dr. Batz began her academic career in 1950 by joining the psychology department at Fisk University as a professor. Later in her career she worked at Tennessee State University, Howard University College of Medicine and Meharry Medical College [2]. During her career she published several journal articles, book chapters, and journal articles primarily focused on sexuality in the Black community.
Sexual therapy
While volunteering on Planned Parenthood’s Board of Directors in the 1970s, Dr. Butch crossed paths with renowned sex researchers Masters and Johnson. They invited her to join their group at the Reproductive Biology Research Foundation (later known as the Masters and Johnson Institute) in St. Louis, Missouri. There Batz became the first African-American to train as a sex therapist under Masters and Johnson [1, 2]. She spent several years there as a therapist. She then held a visiting scientist position at the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention) in Atlanta [3].
Dr. Butch emerged as a prominent and indispensable figure in advocating for the sexual needs and health of black women, particularly in an era where there was a traditional and sometimes religiously influenced reluctance to engage openly in discussions of sexual matters in general. [1]. Butch pioneered initiatives to empower black women to take control of their reproductive health. In particular, he advocated open discussion on often taboo subjects such as masturbation, bisexuality and transgender issues.
Butch strongly believed that in order to understand sex and help clients with their sexual difficulties, therapists must take a holistic approach rather than focusing only on physiology and physical performance. When discussing common sexual complications experienced by her clients, Dr. Butch said, “I don’t look at things so clinically. I’m much more social and interpersonal.” He went on to say that couples often reported that the physical act of sex was good, but where they struggled it was related to other issues such as money, children, power imbalances or understanding each other’s sexual desires and fantasies. [1].
Publications
Dr. Batz left us with an invaluable message about the importance of sexual well-being and health for everyone. He wrote a number of book chapters and articles in popular magazines [2]. Notably, he wrote Ebony The Journal of Human Sexuality’s inaugural issue titled “Sex Education: Who Needs It?”, which debuted in 1977. In other work, he encouraged young black adults to have conversations about their sexuality, where he discussed how they discussions can empower couples to understand each other and create an environment that promotes open and honest sexual communication [4].
Legacy and impact
June Dobbs Butts’ legacy lives on as a testament to the power of advocacy and activism to advance sexual health and social justice. Through her pioneering efforts, she challenged entrenched inequalities and transformed the landscape of sexual health and wellness, especially for women of color.
As we reflect on Butts’ contributions, we are reminded of the ongoing fight for health equity and social justice. Her legacy serves as a guide for those who continue to fight for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
conclusion
While her name may not be widely known, we owe this trailblazer a huge debt of gratitude for her pioneering work in normalizing female sexuality, particularly in the Black community. Butch left an indelible mark on the fabric of American sexology. As we celebrate her legacy, let us hear her call to action and continue the work of building a more just and equal world for future generations.
bibliographical references
- June Dobbs Butts, Pioneering Work in the New Frontier of Sex Therapy – The Washington Post. (1980).
- June Dobbs Butts. The History Makers. (2006).
- Spelman College celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. June Dobbs Butts. Spelman College. (2019).
- Butts, JD (1991). Sex and the modern black couple. In Ebony (Vol. 46, Issue 4, pp. 128-). Johnson Pub. Co., etc.
Image credits: CUNY SPH; collage by Emily Mendelson
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