INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN SEXUALITY

Course Description

In this course, students will learn about how research on human sexuality is conducted and become familiar with some of the key historical figures in the field. Students will learn about sexual anatomy, the stages of the human sexual response cycle, what enhances and inhibits each of these stages from both a psychological (e.g.relationships, mood, past experiences) and physiological (e.g.hormones, neurology) perspective. Different sexual problems, clinically diagnosable, and their treatment will also be examined. The goal of this class is to provide students with a broad overview of how humans function sexually. In addition, topics such as pregnancy, contraception, sexually transmitted diseases, and sexual orientation will also be covered.

INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN SEXUALITY

Evaluation Tools (Active Term)

No evaluation items have been defined.

Course outcomes

1. 01 Being able to define (2) sexual anatomy and recognize (2) related biological bases of sexual behavior
2. 02 Being able to explain (4) the stages of the human sexual response cycle, what enhances/inhibits each of these stages from both a psychological (e.g. relationships, mood, past experiences) and physiological (e.g. hormones, neurology) perspective
3. 03 Being able to identify (2) different sexual problems and list (3) their potential treatment

Course Syllabus

Reference Books & Course Materials

1. 01 Hock, R. R. (2016). Introduction to Human Sexuality. (4th Ed.). Pearson Education. (E-book)

Learning Outcomes

1. L01 Being able to define male and female sexual anatomy SOLO 2
2. L02 Differentiate between the paraphilias SOLO 4
3. L03 Explain factors associated with sexual violence and aggression SOLO 4
4. L04 Describe the biological and neurobiological bases of sexual behaviors SOLO 2
5. L05 Being able to explain the stages of the human sexual response cycle SOLO 4
6. L06 Being able to identify and differentiate contraceptive methods and sexually transmitted infections SOLO 3
7. L07 Explain the cultural and familial factors responsible for the development of our personal sexual philosophies SOLO 3

Program Outcomes

1. P01 Demonstrate an understanding of the core subfields of psychology — including but not limited to clinical, developmental, cognitive, social, and biological/neuroscientific psychology — and their interconnections with other scientific disciplines, critically evaluating the value of a multidisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry in psychology.
2. P02 Apply scientific methods, research techniques, measurement and psychometric principles (e.g., reliability, validity, scale development/adaptation), and quantitative/statistical reasoning to investigate psychological phenomena, recognizing methodological strengths, limitations, common reasoning fallacies, and the flaws of pseudoscience.
3. P03 Employ logical, intuitive, and creative thinking to analyze psychological concepts, evaluate theories (including their historical and philosophical development), synthesize information, and solve complex problems related to cognition and behavior.
4. P04 Integrate psychological theories and findings into practical settings (e.g., business, policy, clinical/counseling contexts, and daily life), applying foundational applied skills such as interviewing, observation, and case formulation, drawing meaningful conclusions to inform individual, organizational, and societal practices.
5. P05 Describe key ethical principles in psychological research and practice, critically applying these principles to dilemmas across academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
6. P06 Recognize how individual differences (e.g., beliefs, values, backgrounds) impact behavior and relationships; use psychological knowledge to prevent or resolve intercultural and interpersonal conflicts and promote inclusive, respectful interactions.
7. P07 Exhibit self-regulation and self-awareness, demonstrating a commitment to psychological well-being, effective time management, constructive incorporation of feedback, and ongoing personal and professional development.
8. P08 Collaborate effectively in diverse teams, demonstrating responsibility, bias awareness, conflict resolution skills, and leadership in achieving collective goals.
9. P09 Communicate psychological knowledge clearly and appropriately for academic, professional, and public audiences using inclusive language, both in written and oral formats, and by accurately summarizing and presenting research findings.
10. P10 Use information and communication technologies (including AI and digital media) responsibly and effectively for research, collaboration, and the dissemination of psychological knowledge.
11. P11 Embrace lifelong learning and adaptability in response to evolving psychological knowledge and societal needs, engaging with global perspectives and demonstrating intercultural awareness.

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