Sex, Society and Social Work: Issues and Interventions

3 units

Researchers and theorists identify sexuality as a significant problem and important human potential across the life course but note it remains an infrequent area of intervention for social workers. While this course studies rape, sexual assault and coercion, incest, double standards, sexism, heteronormativity, trans- and homophobia as tools of oppression, it also examines sexual pleasure as a source of empowerment. Drawing on strengths-based developmental theories, models of health belief, literary hermeneutics, and principles of experiential and transformative learning, this course focuses on developing skills in designing and implementing positive sexuality interventions at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The course introduces principles and best practices in sexuality counseling, education, and therapy, while theoretical, empirical, and literary knowledge about sexuality provide a transdisciplinary problem solving perspective. Interventions aim to counter sexual oppression by transforming clients' knowledge, attitudes, and behavior and by shifting community perspectives toward greater sex/gender inclusiveness.