Overview

Discover the intricate dynamics of gender and sexuality in this comprehensive course, designed to deepen your understanding of these fundamental aspects of human identity. You will explore a wide range of topics, from the biological development of sex characteristics to the social constructs of gender, and from the variability in sexual behaviors to the cultural factors influencing gender fluidity and rigidity. By the end of this course, you'll have a strong grasp of the biological, psychological, and cultural dimensions of gender and sexuality. You’ll be able to explain how sex characteristics develop across the lifespan, analyze the impact of puberty on body image, and compare gender constructs across different cultures. Additionally, you'll explore romantic relationships and the many different pathways—both positive and negative—these relationships can follow. Whether you're looking to deepen your personal understanding or enhance your professional knowledge, this course provides valuable insights and practical tools to navigate and appreciate the complexities of gender and sexuality in both individual and societal contexts.

Syllabus

Learn With PsycLearn Essentials

This module introduces you to your PsycLearn Essentials course. Find out what’s included in this course and how to navigate the modules and lessons. You’ll also learn valuable study tips for successful learning.

Opening to The Psychology of Gender and Sexuality

This module introduces you to the concepts of sex assigned at birth, gender identity, sexuality, and love and romance over the lifespan.

Sex and Gender: What’s the Difference?

This module highlights the differences between sex and gender. It also covers the concept of gender dysphoria based on this sex and gender distinction.

Sex Development and Implications

Biological changes related to sex assigned at birth occur across the lifespan. This module will cover the prenatal development of sex characteristics, the development of sex characteristics during puberty, and the connection between puberty and body image. It will also discuss climacteric across genders.

Gender Development

Gender, gender identity, and gender expression begin to develop early in life and are influenced by a number of factors. This module cover theories of gender development in several areas, including historical, cognitive, and social learning theories, as well as biological and evolutionary theories.

Gender Variability Across Cultures

There is no doubt that culture plays a large role in shaping gender and how we view feminine, masculine, and androgynous traits. This module will explore similarities and differences across sex and gender, how rigid gender norms and gender roles influence day-to-day behaviors, and the connection between gender roles and personality.

Sexual Identity

In this module, you will learn about diverse sexual identities and the course of development over the lifetime.

Sexual Behavior and Consequences

In this module you will learn about sexual activity over the lifespan, including types of risky sexual behavior, pornography, and sexual violence. Possible consequences of sexual behaviors, such as sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy, will also be discussed.

Love and Romance

In this module you will learn about sexual attraction, which can take a romantic form, a sexual form, or a mix of both. You will also learn about different romantic relationships, including marriage, divorce, singlehood, and polyamorous relationships and how they may change over the lifespan.

Course Summary

The concepts of sex assigned at birth, gender identity, sexuality, and love and romance over the lifespan are described.

Cumulative Quiz

This module contains a cumulative quiz.

Course Resources

This module contains a glossary, course references, and a list of contributors to the course.

PsycLearn Essentials APA Student Resources

This module provides a variety of information and tools from the American Psychological Association (APA) that will help inspire you as you complete your coursework and plan your career goals. Explore APA resources on various psychological issues and scholarly research and writing; a list of sites providing valuable resources on diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychology education and in the professional community; resources on a career in psychology; and links to career opportunities at the APA.