Human Sexuality

Catalog description

PSY 3504: Human Sexuality (Cat II) How do religion, laws, and public policies influence perceptions of sex? What effects does pornography have on sexual attitudes and behaviors? How widespread is sexual and domestic violence? In this class, we will explore questions relating to sexuality. Human sexuality is the study of the biological, evolutionary, social, cultural, and political perspectives relating to sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. We will discuss topics such as: gender identity, sexual orientation, anatomy and physiology of the act of sex, relationships, sexual aggression, pornography, contraception, pregnancy, abortion, sexuality over the lifespan, and the role of religion, law, policies, and culture on sexuality. We will think about how sexuality influences how we think and act in the world around us. We will examine sexuality within the United States and throughout the world. This course is designed to increase awareness and sensitivity to sexuality and issues relating to it. Discussions in class will be candid and on sensitive and controversial topics. No prior experience with psychology is needed to take this course, just an open mind. Students may not receive credit for both PSY 2504 and PSY 3504. This course will be offered in 2024-25, and in alternating years thereafter. Recommended background: Introduction to Psychological Science (PSY 1400), Social Psychology (PSY 2402), and/or Psychology of Gender (PSY 3407).