PSY106

Human Sexuality

Comprehensive survey of research in human sexuality. Topics include childhood and adolescent sexuality, marital and extramarital sex, sexual orientation, self-pleasuring, pornography, prostitution, and the sexuality of the elderly. Presents the research methodology employed in this field and the fundamental findings that have been discovered. Fall only.

Course Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of research methodology by collecting empirical data in a systematic manner on a research question designated by the instructor, performing an appropriate analysis, drawing conclusions indicated by the evidence, and preparing a report written in APA format.
2. Demonstrate, through class discussion, extended writing, or exam questions, knowledge of at least eight factual observations that reflect the capacity for and actual occurrence of sexual behavior at different stages throughout the human lifespan.
3. Demonstrate, through class discussion, extended writing, or exam questions, knowledge of at least six principal findings about the anatomy and physiology of sexual response as established by Masters and Johnson and subsequent laboratory researchers.
4. Demonstrate, through class discussions, extended writing, or exam questions, knowledge of at least two competing explanations for sexual orientation and at least one piece of supporting evidence for each of the explanations.
5. Demonstrate, through class discussions, extended writing, or exam questions, knowledge of at least two ways in which gender identity and gender roles shape sexual behavior.
6. Demonstrate, through class discussions, extended writing, or exam questions, at least four major changes in sexual attitudes and behavior that have occurred in American society during the last 100 years.
7. Demonstrate, through class discussions, extended writing, or exam questions, a knowledge of at least four forms of prostitution, the two types of pornography defined by the Supreme Court, and at least five examples of legal restrictions on these and other sexually-related behaviors or materials.
8. Demonstrate, through class discussion, extended writing, or exam questions, knowledge of at least four common sexual dysfunctions and at least five sexually transmitted diseases including at least one treatment for each of these problems.
9. Demonstrate, through class discussion, extended writing, or exam questions, knowledge of at least seven means of conception control, at least two means of aborting pregnancy, and at least two of the issues in the social conflict over these practices.
10. Demonstrate, through class discussion, extended writing, or exam questions, knowledge of at least five factual observations regarding the sexual potential and sexual behaviors found among mentally and physically challenged persons.

Effective Term: Fall 2025

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