YOST4301

This course will provide participants with increased knowledge and practical skills to communicate sensitively and effectively with young people and their concerned persons about sexuality. Participants will explore a variety of adolescent sexual issues with a focus on healthy adolescent relationships, sexual development, gender, sexual orientation, and diversity. With this perspective as a base, other topics will include body image, laws regarding teens, sexual health and disease, dating and sexual violence, sexuality and cyberspace, and professional and ethical boundaries in working with youth. We will often analyze all of these issues through the lens of the various community/cultural, scientific and political debates that surround the issue of sexual health education here in the United States and abroad. Pertinent theory, research, strategies, and experience will be reviewed using readings, video, online resources, interactive web sites, and participant interaction in a safe, sensitive, and even fun atmosphere.

01195