MCCCD Program Description

Human Sexuality

Course: SOC130

First Term: 2022 Fall

Lecture 3.0 Credit(s) 3.0 Period(s) 3.0 Load
Subject Type: Academic
Load Formula: S - Standard Load

Description: Sociological study of human sexuality. Course examines the social forces that shape a culture’s sexual practices, attitudes, and inequalities. Topics include the social construction of sexuality, social change, sexual identities, sexual inequalities, institutional influence and regulation of sexuality, as well as current trends and issues surrounding human sexuality.

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Discuss the range of human sexual beliefs, identities, and behaviors. (I) 2. Explain how the cultural legacy resulting from sex for reproduction and gender roles impacts contemporary society. (I) 3. Explain quantitative and qualitative research methodologies that can be used to study human sexuality. (I) 4. Explain classical and contemporary approaches to theorizing sexuality. (I) 5. Examine how sexuality relates to and reinforces social inequalities. (I, III, IV) 6. Distinguish between biological universals (genetics, anatomy, physiology) and cultural variations (social constructions) in human sexuality. (II) 7. Describe changes in sexuality across the lifespan. (II) 8. Use historical and current theories to differentiate between love, intimacy, sexual pleasure, and sexuality within a cultural perspective. (III) 9. Compare and contrast techniques that can be used to communicate positively with a sexual partner. (III) 10. Differentiate between atypical and paraphilic sexual behaviors using legal and sociological norms. (IV) 11. Examine the social issues related to sexuality including personal and popular cultural perceptions. (IV) 12. Describe the stages from conception to birth sequentially and the social construction for each state. (V) 13. Describe types of contraceptives, their relative efficacy and acceptance depending on social mores. (V) 14. Explain how chronic illnesses, disabilities, and sexually transmitted diseases and infections can impact sexual behaviors and what sexual enhancements, therapies, and protections are available. (V) 15. Identify the major sexually transmitted diseases that are common in today`s society and associated stigma. (V)
MCCCD Official Course Competencies must be coordinated with the content outline so that each major point in the outline serves one or more competencies. MCCCD faculty retains authority in determining the pedagogical approach, methodology, content sequencing, and assessment metrics for student work. Please see individual course syllabi for additional information, including specific course requirements.

MCCCD Official Course Outline
I. Introduction A. Theories and principles of human sexuality B. Qualitative and quantitative research methodology C. Gender roles, issues, and identity II. Sexual anatomy and physiology across the lifespan A. Male B. Female C. Sexuality across the lifespan III. Relationship issues A. Differences between love, intimacy, and sex B. Communication techniques and challenges about sexual expression in relationships C. Cultural perspectives on sexual expression IV. Social issues A. Atypical and paraphilic sexual behaviors B. Commercial sex C. Sexual coercion D. Social issues regarding sexuality V. Impact of reproduction and health-related issues on sexual behaviors A. Influence of social mores B. Contraception and birth control C. Conception, pregnancy, and birth D. Sexually transmitted diseases E. The sexual body in health and illness F. Sexual enhancement/therapy

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: February 22, 2022

All information published is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, but based on the dynamic nature of the curricular process, course and program information is subject to change in order to reflect the most current information available.