PSY 215 - Human Sexuality

3 Credits, 3 Contact Hours
3 lecture periods 0 lab periods

Examination of human sexual experience throughout the life cycle, viewed from sociological and psychological perspectives. Includes psychological, sociological, and cultural legacy of sexuality, biological foundations of sexuality, varieties of sexual behaviors, sexuality and the life cycle, sexual problems, and social issues.

Recommendation: Completion of one of the following before enrolling in this course: PSY 101 , or SOC 101 . REA 091  with a C or better (or assessment into REA 112 ). If any recommended course is taken, see a financial aid or Veteran’s Affairs advisor to determine funding eligibility as appropriate.
Information: Same as SOC 215 .
Gen-Ed: Meets AGEC - SBS and C, G; Meets CTE - SBS and C, G.

1. Describe physiological, psychological and social dynamics affecting sexuality.
2. Compare sexuality, sex roles, and gender orientation across diverse societies and cultures.
3. Describe the variety and varying ways of sexuality.
4. Describe how sexually transmitted diseases, sexual disorders, and various social issues relate to sexuality.
5. Explain how race/ethnicity, religion, the family, and personal values affect intimacy and sexuality.
6. Describe how people learn about sexuality.
7. Compare the personal and public domains of sexuality.
8. Describe the interrelationships among the concepts of intimacy, sex, love, and self.

1. Psychological, Sociological, and Cultural Legacy of Sexuality

1. Sexual diversity among others and across cultures and society
2. Gender identify
3. Personal identity
4. Political and legal aspects of sexuality
5. Religious of sexuality
6. Biological Foundations of Sexuality
   1. Male sexual anatomy
   2. Female sexual anatomy
   3. Sexual arousal and response patterns
7. Varieties of Sexual Behaviors
   1. Love and the development of sexual relationships
   2. Communication in sexual behaviors
   3. Sexual behaviors
   4. Sexual orientations
8. Sexuality and the Life Cycle
   1. Birth control and contraceptives
   2. Conceiving children and pregnancy
   3. Sexuality during childhood and adolescence
   4. Sexuality in the adult years
9. Sexual Problems
   1. Nature and origin of sexual difficulties
   2. Sex therapy and enhancement
   3. Sexually transmitted diseases
10. Social Issues
    1. Atypical sexual behavior
    2. Sexual victimization
    3. Objectification and commodification of sex