MODULE 2: Unfolding the Biological Self

This module tackles two important representations of self: the physical and sexual. The first
section identifies biological and environmental factors that affect the physical self as well as
issues and challenges that individuals face with regard to their physical characteristics. The
second section discusses sexual attributes, characteristics, gender, and responsible sexual
behavior.

Section 1: The Physical Self

This section identifies and explains the biological and environmental factors that shape the
physical self. It also delves into socio-cultural issues associated with physical well-being.

The Biological Blueprint

The physical self is shaped by biological and environmental factors

Heredity is defined as the transmission of traits from parents to offspring. The traits are
made up of specific information embedded within one’s gene.
Genotype refers to the specific information embedded within one’s genes; not all genotypes
translate to an observed physical characteristic.
Phenotype is the physical expression of a particular trait.
Each individual carries 23 pairs of chromosomes, which are threadlike bodies in the nucleus
of the cell and the storage unit of genes. The 23rd pair, also known as sex
chromosomes, determines the sex of an individual.
Within each chromosome is the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is a nucleic acid that
contains the genetic instructions specifying the biological development of every
individual.
Maturation is known as the completion of growth of a genetic character within an organism
or the unfolding of an individual’s inherent traits or potential.

Environmental Conditioning

 As you grow up, you are exposed to environmental influences that shape yoir physical
self, including those from your social networks, societal expectations, and cultural practices.
 Family, being your first social group, forms a crucial foundation of your development,
including that of your physical self.
 As you grow older, you get exposed to a larger social group with new practices and
standards. As a result, you may begin engaging in acts that would make you attractive and
acceptable to others.
 One aspect of physical beauty is a person’s body type. Contemporary media has
portrayed slim bodies as the ideal body type for women and muscular bodies for men. Thus,
adolescents indulge in activities that would enable them to achieve these ideal body types.
 However, some adolescents may resort to unhealthy habits just to achieve the ideal body
type. It is important to remember that physical beauty is only skin-deep; that what matters is
feeling good about oneself and embracing a healthy perception of one’s physical worth.
Achieving Physical Well-being

 Healthy eating. Following a healthy

diet results in healthy skin, ideal weight, and better stamina.
 Embracing a healthy
lifestyle. Physical activities such as walking, running, going to the gym, and engaging in
sports also contribute to a healthier body.
 Maintaining proper
hygiene. Taking care of your body by consistently following a hygiene regimen can also help
you feel good about yourself.
 Being confident. Be secure in
yourself, embrace a positive outlook toward various situations and problems, and love and
accept who you are.

Section 2: The Sexual Self

This section tackles one of the most crucial aspects of human development, the sexual self. It
highlights biological and environmental factors that shape sexual development. Tips on
regulating sexual behavior are also provided.

The Biology of Self

 At birth, the sexual genital (penis for male, vagina for female) is a biological
feature that distinguishes males from females. Moreover, during puberty, observable
changes in the human body also known as secondary sexual characteristics begin.
 When physiological changes are triggered within the adolescent’s reproductive
system, he or she is likely to experience sexual urges, become more sensitive to sexual
stimuli, and feel sexual arousal.
 Humans are likely to engage in sexual activities to satisfy sexual urges. However,
the kind of sexual activities they engage in may vary.
 A person should be aware of his/her sexuality and sexual attributes in order to
make responsible decisions. Adolescents need to realize the importance of having
informed choices.
 Sexual Identity and Gender Orientation

 Biological sex is one’s assignment upon birth and is dependent on physical feature. On
the other hand, gender is an identity that is learned and embraced by individual.
 Gender roles refer to societal expectations of how men and women should act. Everyone
has a basic idea of gender roles: men are assumed to be strong and dominant  while women are
perceived to be submissive and demure.
 Sexual identity and gender orientation underlie one’s concept of self. A person expresses
his or her sexuality through individuality; one’s belief and behavioral lifestyle are based on his
or her own perceptions of sexuality.

The Consequences of Sexual Choices

 Sexual intercourse (copulation) is the reproductive act in which the male organ (penis)
enters the female’s reproductive tract (vagina). Adolescents couples who engage in sexual
intercourse are usually overwhelmed by the sensations they feel during the act.
 However, if the woman is fertile during the time of intercourse, pregnancy is likely to
occur and it lasts approximately nine months before the birth of the child. Having a child
entails a big responsibility and should not merely be a consequence of an impulsive moment.
Physical risks to having an early pregnancy may impact an adolescent’s development,
including miscarriage, emotional stress, and health risks to both mother and infant.
 Aside from pregnancy, another consequence of impulsive and careless sexual intercourse
is the risk of acquiring sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs). Among common STDs are:
 Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Genital Warts

 The most alarming sexually transmitted disease is the acquired immune deficiency

syndrome (AIDS) caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It can be transmitted
by contact between broken skin, wounds, or mucous membranes and HIV-infected blood or
blood-contaminated body fluids.
 It is important that everyone makes responsible decisions with regard to sexuality and
sexual behavior. Responsible sexual behavior entails the following:
 Respect for one’s body. It means taking care of one’s body and avoiding
activities that undermine one’s worth and respect.
 Maturity in thoughts and deeds. It refers to being objective, rational, and calm,
instead of being swept by one’s emotion.
 Being guided by one’s personal beliefs and core values. Everyone, especially
an adolescent, should always be grounded by his/her personal principles and self-worth.
 Being future-oriented. Instead of focusing on the present, a person should
always weigh his or her present actions with possible consequences in the future.