module specification

The aim of this module is to increase both an awareness and understanding of sex and sexuality via a biopsychosocial perspective. Human sexuality explores human experiences of eroticism and attraction and looks at how people experience and express themselves sexually. The module will provide the conceptual tools and methodology necessary for understanding both the dynamics of human sexuality and relationships along with understanding the behavioural, biological, and cognitive factors, involving sexuality, sexual dysfunction and paraphilia/BDSM. It will further develop the clinical communication processes involved in working with vulnerable and culturally diverse groups discussing sexual matters in healthcare. Focusing on the external constraints of human sexuality will help students to better understand the motivations of others around us.

The aims of this module include the following:

1.To understand the dynamics of human sexuality and to explore these relationships among a diverse group
2.To understand the behavioural, biological and cognitive factors along with the aetiology of sexual dysfunction and paraphilia
3.To develop an understanding of the therapeutic and medical interventions available to those with sexual dysfunction, marital issues and paraphilic sexual behaviours
4.To assist develop skills in addressing the sexualities of vulnerable groups
5.To assist in the communication processes involved in discussing sensitive issues
6.To understand the importance of referral and strategic mechanisms involved in addressing sexual dysfunction and paraphilia

Sex, sexuality, LGBTQIA, sexology, sex technology, sexual dysfunction, paraphilia, gender identity

Learning Outcomes LO 1 - 4

The module is delivered via interactive lectures and tutorials. In addition to weekly workshops which provide a forum for the application of theory to practical problems, students are expected to work in groups to learn from each other and learn how to independently use other resources available (e.g. library resources, the internet, WebLearn and their own sources).

Workshops:
The workshops will familiarize students with the different aspect of the course. All workshops will relate to lecture topics and may be tested in the examination.   Hence, each student is expected to do the prior reading and consult recommended texts and be actively involved in workshop activities and group discussion.

The weekly schedule will comprise of a lecture followed by workshop activities and group discussion. The workshops will use the content of the lecture and pre-circulated material for discussion. 

Students will gain core knowledge and understanding of the topics through lectures, but deeper understanding, evaluation and skill development will be promoted through directed study of recommended reading material, workshops and online resources.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

1. Have a critical awareness of a range of core topic areas in sex and sexuality along with related sex research;
2. Be able to demonstrate an appreciation regarding the role psychologists and counsellors have in health care services in supporting sexual well- being across the lifespan.
3. Be able to respect differences in pleural society and cultural values of minority groups and those from varying ages, sexualities and socioeconomic backgrounds.
4. Develop critical self-reflexive skills in group work

There are two assessments consisting of a 30-minute recorded oral presentation (power-point in groups, weighting 80%) based on the importance of promoting sexual well-being among different groups in healthcare and the role psychologists (clinical, health OR counselling) or counsellors have in supporting this. Only one area within human sexuality can be chosen and should be placed in context (e.g. sexual dysfunction among different cultures/BAME, LGBTQIA, sex technology in context, sex in older adults, sex and disability, relationships within diverse groups etc). Here, students should evidence the rational of their choice and critically evaluate current healthcare initiatives and support services available in promoting sexual well-being within the ‘student groups’ chosen area.  The second assignment is a critical self-reflexive overview on the student’s group contribution in the development of the presentation (weighting 20%). A minimum average grade of 40% across the two assessments is required to pass the module.

Clarke, V., Ellis, S.J., Peel, E., & Riggs, D.W. (2010). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer psychology: An Introduction. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press [core]
Britton, P. (2005). The art of sex coaching. Expanding your practice: Principles and practices. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.
Jaspal, R. (2019). The Social Psychology of Gay Men. Cham: Palgrave Pivot