Course Overview

This ONLINE course is an introduction to the psychology of human sexuality. It is broad in scope and will cover a variety of topics dealing with human sexuality, including the role of values in marriage and other relationships, anatomy and physiology, sexual orientation, sexual expression and variation, sexual difficulties, birth control, reproduction and many others. Note that many of the topics are often considered "controversial" or "taboo" for public discussion, and you will also be exposed to sexually explicit language, films, and other academic material. All topics will be approached in a mature manner (see “Atmosphere” section), but if you are easily offended by issues of this nature, this may not be the course for you. Previewing the textbook will give you a more complete idea of the nature of this course. 

Course Requirements

Texts and other resources are available on this syllabus and on the course Blackboard site. Students must maintain an official ACC Student email account.

• Attend class regularly

• Participate in class discussion & activities

• Complete work as assigned

• Communicate

Texts

Required:

Yarber, W.L., Sayad, B.W. (2022). Human Sexuality: Diversity in Contemporary America. (11th ed.). McGraw Hill.

Optional:

De Botton, A. (2012). How to Think More About Sex. Picador, New York.

PLEASE NOTE: Students can order the textbook in whatever format is most suitable and/or affordable to them: eBook, Looseleaf, Paperback, Hardback. The ACC Bookstore should have all options available.

Course Outline

Over the course of the semester, the following topics will be covered. Students should check Blackboard regularly for updates.
Perspectives on Human Sexuality
Studying Human Sexuality
Female Sexual Anatomy and Physiology
Male Sexual Anatomy and Physiology
Gender, Gender Roles, and Sexuality
Sexuality Over the Lifespan
Love & Communication in Intimate Relationships ~Spring Break~
Sexual Response and Expression
Variations in Sexual Behavior
Contraception
Conception, Pregnancy, and Childbirth
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexual Assault and Misconduct
Sexually Explicit Materials, Sex Workers, & Sex Laws

Course Objectives

The primary goal of this course is to develop a greater awareness and acceptance of your own sexuality and the sexuality of others. Further, by reviewing empirical research and reviewing the relevant scientific literature, you will become more comfortable with and knowledgeable about the topic of sexuality. Decisions and choices related to human sexuality will affect you throughout your entire life. The guiding principle of this course is that the more knowledgeable and comfortable you are with these issues, the better able you will be to make informed decisions that reflect your own values. After taking this course, you should:

1. Have an informed and respectful view of diverse attitudes and behaviors regarding human sexuality, including research on gender identity and role development in diverse families.

2. Have a full understanding of the issues surrounding diverse sexual orientations including coverage of current gay, lesbian, bisexuality, and transgender research.

3. Have insightfully examined the influence of popular culture and media on human sexuality and be able to think critically about the depictions of sexuality in the media and discuss sexuality across cultures and times, as well as societal norms.

4. Be able to list, describe, and discuss the structure, function, and processes of both male and female reproductive anatomy and physiology.

5. Have a solid understanding about the research findings regarding love, intimacy, communication, and sexual expression within the context of varying relationships as well as difficulties and therapeutic interventions.

6. Be aware of the characteristics of sexual health and the symptomology and treatment of sexually transmitted infections and diseases.