THE SEXUAL SELF

SEXUAL SELF

• The part of yourself where you learn and understand your

sexual development and how people sexually activity, beliefs,
misconceptions and unlimited access from the internet on sex
influence your own sexual behaviors and responses.
• Your sexual self speaks your sexual health, sexual orientation,
gender identity and expression

THE SEXUAL SELF

1. Sexual Development
• A complex process that occurs over time and involves a wide range of
physical, emotional, and social factors.
• It shapes our sense of self and how we relate to others
• Sexual development can be thought of as a journey that involves exploring
an understanding one’s own sexual feelings, desires, and preferences, as
well as learning about the social and cultural norms surrounding sexuality
Example:
A young child who begins to notice physical differences between boys and
girls, and becomes curious about those differences. As the child grows thy
may be feel attracted to others of the opposite their own sexual feelings and
desires.

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3 Reasons Why an Individual’s Sex is Important in
Lifelong Development (Hurlock,2001, p.32)

1. Each year children come under increasing cultural pleasures from

parents, teachers, peer group and society at large to develop
attitudes and behavior patterns that are considered appropriate for
members of their sex.
2. Learning experiences are determined by the individual’s sex. In the
home, at school, and in play groups, children learn what is
appropriate for members of their sex.
3. The attitude of parents and other significant family members
towards individuals because of their sex. Strong preferences for
child of a given sex have marked influences on parents’ attitudes
affecting relationship with the child.
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1.1 Sigmund Freud’s Psychosexual Stages of
Development and the Concept of Erogenous
Zones

• Describes how our childhood experiences shape our adult

personality and behavior.
• Individual pass through several stages of development, each
with its own unique challenges and conflicts
• Erogenous zone which are specific areas of the body that are
associated with sexual pleasure and satisfaction

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5 Stages In Erogenous Zones
1. Oral Stage (birth to 18 months)
• During this stage, infants derive pleasure from sucking, biting, and chewing. The primary
erogenous zone is the mouth, and the child's relationship with the mothers breast is
crucial in establishing a sense of security and trust.
Example:
A baby who receives adequate nourishment and comfort from their mother during feeding
may develop a sense of security and trust in relationships later in life
2. Anal Stage (18 months to 3 years)
• During this stages, children begin to develop control over their bowel movements. The
primary erogenous experience pleasure from retaining or expelling feces.
Example:
A child who is punished for having accidents or for being messy during potty training may
develop a sense of shame and guilt about their bodily functions
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3. Phallic Stage (3 to 6years)
• During this stage, children become more aware of their genital and develop
sexual feelings for the opposite-sex parent. The primary erogenous zone is the
genitals
Example:
A child who fixated on this stage may exhibit oedipal or Electra complexes,
where they feel jealous of same-sex parent and develop an unconscious desire
to replace them
4. Latency Stage (6 to puberty)
• During this stage, sexual feelings are repressed, and the child focuses on
developing social and cognitive skills
Example:
A child who is heavily involved in school or sports activities may be in the latency
stage, where their focus is on developing friendships and learning new skills.

THE SEXUAL SELF

5. Genital Stage ( Puberty and beyond)
• During this stage, individuals develop mature sexual
relationships and experience pleasure through sexual
intercourse. The primary erogenous zones is the genitals
Example:
An adult who has a healthy sexual relationship may feel fulfilled
and satisfied in other areas of their life as well.

THE SEXUAL SELF

1.2 The Human Reproductive System
• The human reproductive system is responsible for producing and
delivering gametes (sex cells) and for supporting the development of
a fetus during pregnancy.
Male Reproductive Systems:
• Consist of the testes, epididymis, vas, deferens, seminal vesicles,
prostate gland, urethra, and penis.
• The testes produce sperm and testosterone, which are stored in the
epididymis before being transported through the vas deferens during
ejaculation. The seminal vesicles and prostate gland produce fluids
that mix with the sperm to form semen, which is expelled through the
urethra during ejaculation
THE SEXUAL SELF
Example:
When a man ejaculates during the sexual intercourse, millions of sperm are released from
the testes and travel through the vas deferens, mixing with fluids from the seminal
vesicles and prostate gland to form semen. The semen is then expelled from the body
through the penis potentially fertilizing a female’s egg and resulting in pregnancy.
Female Reproductive System:
• Consists of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, and vagina.
• The ovaries produce and release eggs (ova) into the fallopian tubes, where fertilization
by sperm can occur. If fertilization occurs, the fertilized egg travels to the uterus, where
it implants and develops into a fetus. If fertilization does not occur, the unfertilized egg is
shed during menstruation.
Example:
A woman's menstrual cycle begins when an egg is released from one of her ovaries and
travels through the fallopian tube towards the uterus. If sperm are present and fertilize the
egg, it implants in the uterus and begins to develop into a fetus. If fertilization does not
occur, the uterus sheds its lining, and the unfertilized egg is expelled from the body during
menstruation. The cycle then repeats itself, with a new egg being released from the ovary.
THE SEXUAL SELF
1.3 Human Sexual Response and the
Sexual Response Cycle
• The human sexual response cycle is a series of physiological and
psychological changes that occur during sexual arousal and activity. The cycle
is divided into four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
Excitement phase:
• This phase is characterized by physical and psychological changes that
prepare the body for sexual activity. In men, the penis becomes erect, while in
women, the clitoris and vagina become engorged with blood. Heart rate and
breathing also increase.
Example:
A man who becomes sexually aroused may experience an erection and feel his
heart rate increase. A woman may feel her heart rate and breathing increase,
and her vagina may become lubricated in preparation for sexual activity.
THE SEXUAL SELF
Plateau phase:
• During this phase, the body continues to prepare for orgasm, and sexual
tension continues to build.
Example:
A person who is sexually aroused may continue to experience increased
heart rate and breathing. In men, the testicles may become further enlarged
and the penis may become more sensitive. In women, the clitoris may
become more sensitive and the inner labia may darken in color.
Orgasm phase:
This is the peak of sexual arousal and is characterized by a rhythmic
contraction of muscles in the genital area, resulting in intense pleasure.

THE SEXUAL SELF

Example:
During orgasm, a man may ejaculate semen from his penis and experience a
pleasurable sensation throughout his body. A woman may experience
rhythmic contractions of her pelvic muscles and an intense release of sexual
tension
Resolution phase:
During this phase, the body returns to its normal state, with the genitalia
returning to their pre-aroused state.
Example:
Following orgasm, a person's heart rate and breathing gradually return to
normal, and any swelling or sensitivity in the genital area subsides. The body
returns to its pre-aroused state, and the individual may feel a sense of
relaxation or contentment.
THE SEXUAL SELF
1.4 The Basic Biology of Sexual
Behavior: Teen Sexual Behavior
• Sexual behavior in teenagers is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.

• During puberty, the body undergoes significant changes that can influence sexual behavior. Here is an overview of
the basic biology of sexual behavior in teenagers and an example of how it might manifest:

Hormonal changes:

• During puberty, the body experiences hormonal changes that can increase sexual desire and drive. In boys,
testosterone levels increase, leading to the development of sexual organs and the growth of pubic and body hair.
In girls, estrogen and progesterone levels increase, leading to the development of sexual organs, the onset of
menstruation, and the growth of pubic and body hair.

Example:

A teenage boy who experiences an increase in testosterone levels may feel more sexually attracted to others,
experience more frequent erections, and have a stronger sex drive. A teenage girl who experiences an increase in
estrogen and progesterone levels may feel more sexually attracted to others, experience changes in vaginal
lubrication, and have a stronger sex drive. THE SEXUAL SELF
Social and psychological factors:
• Teenagers are also influenced by social and psychological factors, such as peer pressure,
media messages, and personal values and beliefs. These factors can influence sexual attitudes
and behaviors.
Example:
A teenage girl who is pressured by her friends to have sex may feel conflicted about her own
values and beliefs. Alternatively, a teenage boy who is exposed to explicit sexual content in the
media may be more likely to engage in sexual behavior at a younger age.
Risk factors:
Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of teenage sexual behavior, including substance
abuse, low self-esteem, and a lack of parental supervision.
Example:
A teenage girl who engages in substance abuse may be more likely to engage in sexual behavior
as a result. A teenage boy who has low self-esteem may engage in sexual behavior as a way to
boost his confidence.
• It's important to note that not all teenagers engage in sexual behavior, and those who do may do
so in different ways and for different reasons. Encouraging open communication about sex and
providing access to comprehensive sexual education can help teenagers make informed choices
about their sexual health THE SEXUAL SELF
2. Human Sexuality
• Human sexuality refers to the ways in which humans experience and express
themselves as sexual beings. It is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human
behavior that includes biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors. Some
examples of human sexuality include:
Sexual orientation:
• This refers to a person's emotional and sexual attraction to others. It can be categorized into three
main categories: heterosexual (attraction to the opposite sex), homosexual (attraction to the same
sex), and bisexual (attraction to both sexes). 
Gender identity:
• This refers to a person's internal sense of being male, female, both, or neither. Gender identity
can be different from a person's biological sex, and transgender people may identify as a gender
that is different from the one, they were assigned at birth. 
Sexual behavior:
• This refers to the actions and activities that people engage in to express their sexuality. It can
include a wide range of behaviors, such as THEkissing,
SEXUAL SELF hugging, touching, oral sex, and intercourse.
Sexual health:
• This refers to the physical, mental, and social well-being
related to sexuality. It includes factors such as contraception,
sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and sexual dysfunction.
Sexual culture:
• This refers to the social and cultural norms, values, and beliefs
related to sexuality. It can vary widely across different societies
and may include attitudes towards sex education, sexual
expression, and sexual morality.

• Overall, human sexuality is a complex and diverse aspect of

human life that plays a significant role in shaping our identities,
relationships, and experiences.
THE SEXUAL SELF
2.1 The Five Cycles of Sexuality
1. Sensuality:
• Awareness of and feeling about your own body and other people’s bodies,
especially the body of a sexual partner.
2. Sexual Intimacy:
Ability to be emotionally close to another human being and to accept closeness in
return. Several aspects of intimacy include sharing intimacy, caring about another,
liking or loving a person, emotional risk-taking and vulnerability to a loved one.
3. Sexual Identity:
person’s understanding of who/she is sexually, including the sense of being male or
a female.
Consist three “interlocking pieces” that together, affect how each person sees
him/herself.

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4. Reproduction and Sexual Health
• Person’s capacity to reproduce and the behaviors and attitudes
that make sexual relationships healthy and enjoyable.
5. Sexualization:
• Aspect of sexuality In which people behave sexually to
influence, manipulate, or control other people. Often called
“shadowy” side of human sexuality, sexualizations spans
behaviors that range from the relatively harmless to the
sadistically violent, cruel, and criminal.

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2.1 The Chemistry of Lust, Love, and
Attachment
• The chemistry of lust, love, and attachment is a complex and multi-
dimensional topic, and researchers are still working to fully understand the
biological and neurological mechanisms that underlie these different forms
of romantic and sexual attraction. However, there are certain hormones
and neurotransmitters that have been linked to the experience of lust, love,
and attachment.
Lust:
• The experience of sexual attraction and desire is often associated with the
hormone testosterone, which is present in higher levels in males than in
females. Testosterone has been linked to increased libido and sexual
motivation. Additionally, dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with
pleasure and reward, is released during sexual activity, which can
contribute to feelings of lust and pleasure.
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Love:
• The experience of romantic love is often associated with the release of a group of
hormones and neurotransmitters, including dopamine, oxytocin, and vasopressin.
Dopamine is released in the brain during the early stages of romantic attraction and is
associated with feelings of pleasure and reward. Oxytocin is released during intimate
physical contact such as hugging, kissing, or sex and is associated with social bonding,
trust, and attachment. Vasopressin has also been linked to social bonding and
attachment, particularly in males.
Attachment:
The experience of long-term attachment and commitment is often associated with the
hormone oxytocin, which is released during intimate physical contact and is linked to
feelings of bonding and attachment. In addition, the hormone prolactin, which is released
during sexual activity and is associated with feelings of relaxation and contentment, may
also play a role in long-term attachment.

THE SEXUAL SELF

Example
• Examples of how these chemical processes can manifest in real
life could include a person experiencing intense feelings of sexual
desire and attraction towards someone they find physically
attractive (lust), feeling a rush of pleasure and reward when
spending time with someone they are romantically attracted to
(love), or feeling a deep sense of bonding and attachment to a
long-term partner (attachment). However, it is important to note
that individual experiences of lust, love, and attachment can vary
significantly depending on a range of psychological, social, and
cultural factors, and are not solely determined by biology or
chemistry
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 3. The Diversity of Human Sexuality
• The diversity of human sexuality is vast and complex, reflecting the many
different ways in which people experience and express their sexuality. Here are
some examples of the diversity of human sexuality:
Sexual orientation:
There is a wide range of sexual orientations beyond the traditional categories of
heterosexual, homosexual, and bisexual. These include asexual (not
experiencing sexual attraction), demisexual (only experiencing sexual attraction
after forming an emotional bond), pansexual (being attracted to all genders), and
queer (an umbrella term for non-heterosexual and non-cisgender identities).
Gender identity:
Beyond the binary categories of male and female, there are many different
gender identities, including transgender, nonbinary, genderfluid, and agender.
THE SEXUAL SELF
Cultural and social norms:
Sexual practices, beliefs, and attitudes vary widely across
different cultures and societies. For example, some cultures may
place a high value on sexual modesty and restraint, while others
may have more permissive attitudes towards sexuality.
Sexual behaviors and preferences:
Individuals may have a wide range of sexual behaviors and
preferences, including kinks, fetishes, and BDSM. 

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Sexual orientation and gender identity development:
• Individuals may go through different stages of sexual
orientation and gender identity development over the course of
their lives. For example, a person may initially identify as
heterosexual before realizing they are attracted to people of the
same gender.
• Overall, the diversity of human sexuality highlights the
complexity and richness of human experience, and underscores
the importance of respecting and celebrating different sexual
identities, orientations, and behaviors.

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3. 1 Sexual Health and Sexually
Transmitted Diseases/Infections
Intercourse
• One of the most common behaviors among humans. Sexual
intercourse is a behavior that may produce sexual pleasure that often
culminates in orgasm in females and in males.
• Sexual intercourse may results in pregnancy and/ or STDs.
Premarital Sex
• Sexual activity practiced by people who re unmarried. It can be any
relations a person has prior to marriage.
• Non-marital sex which overlaps with adultery,
• youthful sex, adolescent sex and young-adult sex.
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Sexually Transmitted Diseases/infections
• Also known as Venereal Diseases (VID).
• They are also passed through sexual contact or genital-through
vaginal intercourse, oral sex and anal sex.
• The STI(Sexually Transmitted Diseases) that it can be passed through
without disease.
HIV/AIDS
• HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, a retrovirus-genetic of
@RNA than DNA
• HIV viruses that causes AIDS and its preventable and manageable but
not curable.
• AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, a syndrome
that are several manifestations of the breakdown in body’s immune
system and have developed in people who have been infected by HIV.
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How do people get AIDS? AIDS is
developed through:

1 . Bodily fluids ( blood products-transfusions,

semen and vaginal fluids)
2. Intravenous (IV) Drug abuse ( sharing
needles and use of unsterilized blades)
3. Sexual intercourse( Unprotected vaginal,
oral and anal sex)
THE SEXUAL SELF
3.2 Teenage Pregnancy
• Teenage pregnancy can have a significant impact on a young person's
understanding of themselves, as they are forced to navigate the challenges
and responsibilities of parenthood at a young age. Here are some examples
of how teenage pregnancy can affect a young person's self-understanding:
Identity formation:
Teenage pregnancy can disrupt a young person's normal developmental process, as they are
suddenly thrust into the role of a parent before they have fully formed their own identity. This
can lead to confusion and uncertainty about who they are and what they want out of life. 
Self-esteem:
Teenage pregnancy can also have a negative impact on a young person's self-esteem,
particularly if they face stigma or judgment from others. They may feel ashamed or inadequate
for becoming pregnant at a young age, and may struggle to maintain a positive self-image. 

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Responsibility and maturity:
• On the other hand, teenage pregnancy can also lead to increased feelings
of responsibility and maturity, as young parents must learn to prioritize the
needs of their child over their own desires and needs. This can help them
develop a greater sense of purpose and direction in their lives.
Relationship dynamics:
• Teenage pregnancy can also have an impact on a young person's
understanding of romantic and familial relationships. They may struggle to
balance their new role as a parent with their existing relationships with
partners, friends, and family members.
• Overall, teenage pregnancy can be a complex and challenging experience
that can have a significant impact on a young person's self-understanding.
However, with the right support and resources, young parents can learn to
navigate these challenges and develop a stronger sense of self and
purpose.

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Prevention Of Teenage Pregnancy
Education
• The curriculum focuses on values, attitudes, communication
and negotiation skills, as well as biological aspects of
reproduction.
Abstinence on education
• Form of sex education that teaches not having sex outside of
marriage.

THE SEXUAL SELF

3.3 Family Planning/Responsible Parenthood and
the Different Family Planning Methods/Methods of
Contraception(natural and artificial)
• Family planning and responsible parenthood can play an important role in
helping individuals understand themselves and their goals, as they allow
people to make informed decisions about when and whether to have children.
Here are some examples of how different family planning methods can
contribute to self-understanding:
Natural family planning:
• Natural family planning involves tracking a person's menstrual cycle and
identifying the most fertile times of the month, in order to avoid or encourage
pregnancy. This method can help individuals gain a better understanding of
their own bodies and reproductive cycles, and may also promote
communication and intimacy with partners.
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Barrier methods:
• Barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms and
diaphragms, can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and
protect against sexually transmitted infections. By taking
responsibility for their own sexual health and well-being,
individuals can gain a greater sense of control over their lives
and relationships.

THE SEXUAL SELF

Hormonal methods:
• Hormonal methods of contraception, such as birth control pills and injectables, work
by regulating a person's hormones and preventing ovulation. These methods can
provide individuals with greater flexibility and control over their reproductive choices,
allowing them to pursue their personal and professional goals without the risk of
unwanted pregnancy. 
Sterilization:
• Sterilization methods, such as tubal ligation and vasectomy, involve surgical
procedures that permanently prevent pregnancy. These methods can provide a sense
of security and stability for individuals and couples who have completed their desired
family size, and may also offer a greater sense of control and agency over one's own
reproductive choices.
• Overall, family planning and responsible parenthood can help individuals gain a better
understanding of themselves and their goals, by providing them with greater control
over their reproductive choices and helping them make informed decisions about
when and whether to have children. By choosing the family planning method that best
meets their needs and values, individuals can take charge of their own lives and
futures, and create a sense of purpose and direction for themselves and their families
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THANK YOU!
THE SEXUAL SELF