INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN SEXUALITY

Course Description

In this course, students will examine human sexuality from a scientific and psycho-social perspective. This course will cover both male and female sexual anatomy and the sexual response cycle. Topics such as love, intimacy and sexual communication will be covered as one of the foundations of healthy romantic relationships. In addition and within the framework of health preventive measures, contraceptive methods will also be covered in association with sexually transmitted infections. Finally, sexual dysfunctions, gender roles, sexual orientation, sexual aggression and violence, paraphilias, and controversial issues like sex trafficking and sex workers will be discussed. The goal of this course is to educate students in the field of human sexuality with key focus on sex education from a biopsychosocial and cultural perspective.

INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN SEXUALITY

Evaluation Tools (Active Term)

No evaluation items have been defined.

Course outcomes

No course outcomes have been defined yet.

Course Syllabus

Reference Books & Course Materials

1. 01 Cinsel Sağlık ve Üreme Sağlığı, Editörler: Hilal Özbek, Vasviye Eroğlu, Demet Çakır, Nobel.

Learning Outcomes

1. L01 To be able to define basic concepts related to sexuality SOLO 2
2. L01 To be able to explain why certain behaviors and problems occur SOLO 4
3. L02 To Classifying risky behaviors in sexuality. SOLO 4
4. L04 To explain human sexuality through its biological, psychological, social, and cultural dimensions. SOLO 4
5. L05 To identify ethical principles, professional responsibilities, and boundaries within clinical and applied contexts in the field of human sexuality. SOLO 5
6. L06 To develop evidence-based, inclusive, and human rights–based approaches. SOLO 5

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.

Po-Lo Matrix