Introduction to the Science of Sexology

Workshop Overview

The Introduction to the Science of Sexology online workshop aims to dispel myths and introduce the importance and place of this field in psychology. 

Sexology is sometimes treated as a taboo topic. This makes it complicated for us to understand both our personal sexual drives and human sexuality as a whole.

It’s time to disregard the stigma and get to grips with the science behind something that impacts us all.

The workshop introduces sexology as an autonomous science, with its own very specific frameworks and ideologies.

Explore sexology’s strong presence in overlapping academic fields, such as biology, medicine, psychology, sociology, and criminology.

Time commitment

3 hours to complete this workshop.

Is this workshop for you?

This workshop is for you if you want to learn about the study of healthy sexual functioning and dysfunction across a person’s lifespan.

What is sexology?

Sexology is the scientific study of human sexuality, including human sexual interests, behaviours, and functions. Sexologists study human anatomy, physiology and psychology related to sexuality, sexual interests, and behaviours.

Dates

Class of 2023: on demand

Participants can register at any time and move through the workshop content within 5 days. There is no live session, and you have 5 days to watch the live workshop recording and to complete the online journal articles and multiple-choice questionnaire.

Certification

This workshop has been designed for anyone wanting to upskill in the area of sexology. Once you have completed the course, you will receive a digital certificate of completion.

The certificate serves as evidence of your new skills and knowledge and can be used to demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

Attend a live online session, or watch the recording, and complete an online reading and assessment.

Workshop Overview

• Introduction to sexology
• The groundwork of sexology
  • The rise of sexology: Reflect on the main concepts that informed the rise of sexology.
  • Ecological Approach: The Ecological Systems Theory which conceptualises human development.
  • Integral philosophies such as General Systems Theory and Ken Wilber’s Four Quadrants.
  • What is the World Health Organisation’s Mandate?
  • What is the role of The Congress of the World Association for Sexual Health?
• Relationship Sexology
  • What can one expect from relationship counselling?
  • Does counselling help relationships?
• Sexology study options in South Africa
  • What does a Sexologist do and what options are open for a Professional to specialise in?

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop practitioners will:

• Have an understanding of the scientific study of human sexuality.
• Have knowledge of the history of sexology and how it was established as a formal discipline.
• Develop awareness of the Ecological Systems Theory and how human development is a product of a dynamic and reciprocal interplay of systems.
• Have a basic understanding of integral philosophies such as General Systems Theory and Ken Wilber’s Four Quadrants and how they have played a significant role in shaping sexology.
• Develop insights into universal integralism and wholism.
• Have an understanding of the global efforts around improving sexual well-being, reducing stigma, and ensuring comprehensive and equitable sexual health services for all individuals and communities.
• Understand what relationship sexology is and the value that relationship counselling can offer.

Workshop Presenter

Leanne Steyn is a Psychotherapist and Senior Lecturer. She has a unique set of skills and a multi-dimensional approach to Psychology, Criminology and Sexology in Practice. Leanne holds a Master of Science Degree in Sexology (Professional Master’s Cum Laude) and she’s a registered Sexuality Therapist with the Council for Sexual Health Professions (CSHP) in South Africa. She consults and lectures for both SACAP and Eduvos.