HUMAN SEXUALITY & SOCIAL WORK

Catalog description

Sexuality is a core component of the human experience. As such, understanding how it is conceptualized, experienced, and expressed within (and influenced by) mezzo and macro systems is critical. This course is intended to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively support and work with individuals of diverse sexual identities, gender identities, expressions, and experiences across the life span. The course will focus on definitions surrounding sexuality, beliefs and values about sexuality, the impact of family, culture, social, and political values, and ethics of social work practice. Students will expand their understanding of diverse sexual values, expression, and behaviors in client systems as well as their own sexual values and biases. The course will use a trauma-informed, inclusive perspective when discussing clinical assessment and practice skills.