A foundational introduction to human sexuality and its biological, psychological and social underpinnings, with a focus on health and wellbeing.
An understanding of sexuality and its relationship to health and wellbeing is vital for students from a variety of backgrounds. It will be particularly valuable for students interested in psychology, public health, social work, education, sociology and gender studies, anthropology, law, reproductive health, and physical education. This paper can be taken as part of a number of degree programmes and will provide an essential grounding in sexuality from a psychological and health science perspective.
| Paper title | Human Sexuality and Health |
|---|---|
| Paper code | PSME201 |
| Subject | Psychological Medicine |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period(s) | Semester 2
(Distance learning)
Semester 2 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,141.35 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- 108 points
- Recommended Preparation
- GEND 102
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Science
- Eligibility
Suitable for undergraduates from all disciplines and as a distance paper for those in the community. This paper is suited to those who are interested in sexuality, sexual health and wellbeing and all those whose professions involve working with people.
- Contact
- charlene.rapsey@otago.ac.nz
- Teaching staff
- Dr Charlene Rapsey
- Paper Structure
The paper is structured according to three main areas:
Sexuality through the lifespan
- Human development and sexuality
- Sexual response
- Sexual difficulties
- Illness, disability and wellbeing
- Sexual diversity
- Gender identity
- Love and intimacy
Public health and society
- Sex work
- Sex education
- Sex and technology
- Pornography
- Reproductive health
- Global initiatives
Sexual harm
- Consent
- Sexual victimisation
- Harmful sexual behaviour
Internal Assessment 60%.
- Teaching Arrangements
The Distance Learning offering of this paper is taught remotely.
The on-campus offering of this paper is taught in Dunedin.
- Textbooks
To be advised. Key readings will be provided.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Global perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Scholarship,
Communication, Critical thinking, Ethics, Research.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this paper will:
- Use biological, social, and psychological research to explain human sexual behaviour
- Consolidate and critique research and theories to answer questions and evaluate ideas about sexuality and health
- Critically evaluate sexual health research and public policy and implications for health
- Discuss implications of lifespan development for sexuality and health
- Understand sexual/affectional and gender orientations and identities
