Explores sexual issues from scientific and humanistic perspectives. Surveys historical, cultural and cross-cultural variation in sexuality, sex research, female and male sexual and reproductive anatomy and physiology, gender issues, sexual response, sexual communication, sexual behavior patterns, love, and sexual orientations. This is the first course in a two-course sequence.
Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion students should be able to:
- Improve sexual health and functioning through the critical evaluation of scientific and popular information.
- Practice sexual health and enhance sexual satisfaction based on a) the knowledge of sexual anatomy and physiology, b) the ability to communicate effectively about sexuality with partners, family members, and health-care providers, and c) understanding of psychological influences on sexual decision-making and health behaviors.
- Use an understanding of historical, biological, social, psychological, and cultural contexts of diverse sexual practices in order to be accepting of others’ consensual behaviors.
- Be open to and accepting of diversity in others’ gender identity, gender role expression, sexual orientation and variations, in order to promote community well-being.
- Establish, maintain, and enhance intimate relationships through the utilization of research based principles.
Prerequisites
Equivalent placement test scores also accepted.
Prerequisite Courses
Additional Information
This course fulfills the following GE requirements: Social Sciences/ASOT-B, Social Sciences/AAOT, Social Sciences/AS, Social Sciences/AAS, Social Sciences/AGS.