Lecture on the Sexual Self

Introduction

• Focus on the sexual self.
• Importance of discussing sex as it contributes to long-term relationships.
• Approach the topic as preparation for intimate relationships.

Learning Outcomes

• Development of sex characteristics and the reproductive system.
• Description of erogenous zones and sexual response.
• Understanding attraction, love, and attachment.
• Identify causes and consequences of STDs and early pregnancy.
• Reflect on contraception and reproductive health laws.

Development of Sex Characteristics

• Primary Sex Characteristics: Present at birth; includes the reproductive system.
• Secondary Sex Characteristics: Develop during puberty.
  • For Women: Breast enlargement, menstrual cycle, widening hips, buttocks enlargement, growth of pubic hair.
  • For Men: Testicular growth, sperm production, appearance of facial and other body hair, voice deepening.
• Hormones: Testosterone and androgens stimulate development and increase sex drive.
  • Women produce estrogen and progesterone with a small amount of testosterone.
  • Estrogen promotes reproductive capacity and follows a cyclical pattern.

Human Sexual Arousal

• Erogenous Zones: Genitals, mouth, breasts, ears, anus, and the body surface.
• Masturbation: Common form of self-stimulation leading to sexual pleasure or orgasm.
• Foreplay: Includes intimate activities like kissing, cuddling, necking, which are crucial for sexual arousal.

Sexual Response Cycle

• Phases: Excitement, Plateau, Orgasm, Resolution.
  • Excitement: Beginning of arousal, physical changes occur.
  • Plateau: Further increases in physical changes.
  • Orgasm: Muscle contractions and release of sexual tension.
  • Resolution: Body returns to normal state.

Cultural and Cognitive Influences

• Brain as a Sexual Organ: Cognitive factors and imagination play roles in sexual arousal.
• Cultural Influence: Affects expression of sexual desire; varies globally.

Attraction, Love, and Attachment

• Stages: Attraction, love, and attachment develop over time.
• Sternberg's Triangular Theory of Love: Intimacy, passion, and commitment.
  • Intimacy: Closeness and bondedness.
  • Passion: Physical attraction and romantic feelings.
  • Commitment: Decision to love and maintain the relationship.

Sexual Orientation

• Definitions: Heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, transsexual.
• Social Acceptance: Varies by region and culture; more open in modern times.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Early Pregnancy

• STIs: Contracted through sexual contact; health issue globally.
  • Examples: HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea.
• Safe Sex Practices: Use of condoms and awareness are crucial.
• Contraception: Methods like IUDs, birth control injections help prevent pregnancy and STIs.

Reproductive Health Law

• RH Bill: Guarantees access to contraception, fertility control, sex education.
• Goals: Prevent STIs, promote adolescent health, and provide sex education.

Conclusion

• Importance of safe practices, understanding sexual health, and open communication.
• Open for questions and further discussion.