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MAFT 533 - Human Sexuality

TeacherDr. H. Quagliana
SemesterFallDuration8 Weeks
FrequencyEvery three years
Credits5 ECTSWorkload125-150 Hours
Module formatIntensive
ApplicabilityThis Module is basic to developing an understanding of how important human sexuality is to the range of modules on marriage and family. It is particularly helpful in the areas of practical counseling.
Course structureSee module and courses
Contact time35-45 HoursSelf-Study105-125 Hours
Participation requirementSee access to the program
Evaluation
EvaluationHoursWeight
Phase 16025%
Readings & Presentation
6025%
Phase 24035%
Participation
305%
Case Studies1030%
Phase 35040%
Exam, Preparation and Writing
5040%
Total150100%
Content of the ModuleThe study of contemporary theory, research, and practice of marriage and family therapy as it relates to the study and understanding of the biological, cognitive, socioemotional, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of human sexuality.
This course is intended to familiarize students with the contemporary theory, research, and practice of marriage and family therapy related to the study and understanding of human sexuality.
Learning Objectives

A. General Learning Objectives
This course seeks to: 

  1. Provide an overview of the psychosocial aspects of male and female sexuality and sexual functioning.
  2. Review the cognitive, social, emotional, biological, and spiritual characteristics of the development of sexual attitudes and behaviors.
  3. Introduce students to the various concepts and terminology used in research and practice in the field of human sexuality.
  4. Define the dimensions of human sexuality and their influences on individuals, couples, and families.
  5. Describe the ways in which societal, parental, peer and individual attitudes and values affect sexual development and sexual awareness.
  6. Survey historical and contemporary issues and developmental milestones that impact sexuality throughout the life cycle.
  7. Explain the ways in which men and women, both adolescent and adult, experience relationships dealing with love, intimacy, and sexuality.
  8. Introduce the students to the skills required to work with a variety of aspects related to human sexuality.

B. Specific Behavioral Objectives
As a result of the activities and study in this course, the student should be able to:

  1. Recognize contextual and systemic dynamics (e.g., gender, age, socioeconomic status, culture/race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, spirituality, religion, larger systems, social context) (AAMFT 1.2.1).
  2. Consider health status, mental status, other therapy, and other systems involved in the clients’ lives (e.g., courts, social services) (AAMFT 1.2.2)
  3. Evaluate the case for appropriateness for treatment within professional scope of practice and competence (AAMFT 1.4.1)
  4. Understand principles of human development; human sexuality; gender development; psychopathology; psychopharmacology; couple processes; and family development and processes (e.g., family, relational, and system dynamics) (AAMFT 2.1.1)
  5. Diagnose and assess client behavioral and relational health problems systemically and contextually (AAMFT 2.3.1)
  6. Know which models, modalities, and/or techniques are most effective for presenting problems (AAMFT 3.3.1)
  7. Work collaboratively with other stakeholders, including family members, other significant persons, and professionals, not present (AAMFT 3.3.7)
  8. Respect multiple perspectives (e.g., clients, team, supervisor, practitioners from other disciplines who are involved in the case) (AAMFT 4.5.1)
OutlineA. Perspectives on Sexuality, Cultural and Historical
B. Psychological aspects of Sexuality
C. Sexuality throughout the Lifespan
D. Gender Issues
E. Love & Attraction
F. Sexual Orientation
G. Sexual Behavior
H. Sexual Abuse and Assault
I. Sexual Dysfunctions & Sex Therapy
J. Sexual Disorders & Sexual Health
K. Theology of Sexuality
L. Infidelity
ExaminationSee Evaluation
Core Literature

Textbook:
Balswick, J.K., & Balswick, J.O. (2008). Authentic Human Sexuality: An Integrated Christian Approach. InterVarsity Academic.
Yarhouse, M. A. & Tan, E. S. N. (2014). Sexuality and Sex Therapy: A Comprehensive Christian Appraisal. InterVarsity Academic.

Reading List:
Anderson, K. (2000). Marriage, family, & sexuality: Probing the headlines that impact your family. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications.
Buehler, S. (2011). Sex, love and mental illness. A couples guide to staying connected. Santa Barbara, CA: Praeger.
Cox, F. D. (2000). The aids booklet, 6th ed. Boston: McGraw-Hill.
Crooks, R., & Baur, K. (2002). Our Sexuality, 8th edition. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole Publishing.
Leiblum, S. R, Rosen, R. C. (2000). Principles and practices of sex therapy, 3rd ed. New York, NY: Guildford Press.
Shibley-Hyde, J., & DeLamater, J.D. (2000). Understanding human sexuality, 7th edition. Boston: McGraw-Hill.
York, M. W., & Cooper, G. D. (2001). A unifying approach to the theories and practice of psychotherapy and counseling. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.

Other information