Relationships and Sexuality Course

Lesson 1 • Core Terminology and Ethical Language

Precise, respectful, and inclusive language for discussing sexuality is introduced. Consistent terminology reduces bias and improves professional communication.

Lesson 2 • Defining Sexuality and Its Dimensions

Sexuality is examined as a multidimensional construct encompassing biological, psychological, and social components. This foundation anchors all subsequent topics.

Lesson 3 • Historical Perspectives on Sexuality

Key historical shifts in how societies have understood and regulated sexuality are traced. Learners contextualise contemporary norms within long-term change.

Lesson 4 • The Human Sexual Response Cycle

Classic and contemporary models of sexual response are compared and critiqued. Learners apply these models to understand individual variation.

Lesson 1 • Development of Sexual Identity

Stage models and contemporary theories of sexual identity formation are reviewed. Learners apply these to understand clients' or learners' developmental journeys.

Lesson 2 • Affirming Practice with Diverse Populations

Practical skills for working affirmingly with LGBTQ+ individuals are developed. Learners apply inclusive assessment and communication strategies.

Lesson 3 • Cultural and Religious Diversity in Identity

Intersections of culture, religion, and sexual identity are analysed. Learners learn to navigate value conflicts with professional neutrality.

Lesson 4 • Sexual Orientation Frameworks

Models of sexual orientation from binary to continuum-based are examined. Learners distinguish attraction, behaviour, and identity as separate dimensions.

Lesson 1 • Relationship Formation and Maintenance

Processes of attraction, partner selection, and relationship maintenance are examined. Learners apply social exchange and equity theories to relationship health.

Lesson 2 • Attachment Theory Fundamentals

Bowlby's and Ainsworth's foundational attachment concepts are introduced. Learners link early attachment patterns to adult relational behaviour.

Lesson 3 • Adult Attachment in Romantic Relationships

Adult attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganised—are mapped onto romantic relationship dynamics. Learners assess attachment patterns in couples.

Lesson 4 • Love Theories and Emotional Intimacy

Sternberg's triangular theory and other love models are analysed. Learners distinguish passion, commitment, and intimacy as independent relationship components.

Lesson 1 • Foundations of Intimate Communication

Core communication principles—active listening, empathy, and self-disclosure—are applied to intimate contexts. Learners distinguish functional from dysfunctional patterns.

Lesson 2 • Digital and Long-Distance Communication

Challenges and strategies for maintaining intimacy through digital channels are explored. Learners evaluate risks and benefits of technology-mediated intimacy.

Lesson 3 • Communicating Sexual Needs and Desires

Skills for expressing and negotiating sexual preferences are developed. Learners practise direct, respectful, and clear sexual communication.

Lesson 4 • Conflict Communication and Assertiveness

Assertive communication is contrasted with passive and aggressive styles. Learners apply structured dialogue techniques to intimate conflict scenarios.

Lesson 1 • Contraception and Reproductive Choices

The full range of contraceptive methods and their effectiveness is reviewed. Learners support informed reproductive decision-making across diverse populations.

Lesson 2 • Promoting Sexual Health Across the Lifespan

Sexual health needs at adolescence, adulthood, and older age are addressed. Learners design age-appropriate health promotion messages.

Lesson 3 • Defining Sexual Health

The World Health Organization's sexual health framework is examined alongside positive sexuality models. Learners move beyond disease-focused definitions.

Lesson 4 • Sexually Transmitted Infections

Transmission, prevention, testing, and treatment of common sexually transmitted infections are covered. Learners develop skills for non-stigmatising health education.

Lesson 1 • Relationship Transitions and Life Events

Major transitions—cohabitation, marriage, parenthood, and separation—are examined for their relational impact. Learners support clients through normative and non-normative transitions.

Lesson 2 • Power Dynamics in Relationships

Sources of relational power—economic, social, and emotional—are analysed. Learners identify healthy and unhealthy power distributions in partnerships.

Lesson 3 • Consensual Non-Monogamy

Polyamory, open relationships, swinging, and relationship anarchy are distinguished. Learners apply non-judgmental frameworks to diverse relational choices.

Lesson 4 • Monogamy and Its Variations

Serial monogamy, strict monogamy, and socially monogamous structures are compared. Learners examine cultural and evolutionary perspectives on monogamy.

Lesson 1 • Adult Sexuality and Partnerships

Sexual expression, satisfaction, and challenges in young and middle adulthood are addressed. Learners connect life-stage demands to sexual well-being.

Lesson 2 • Sexuality, Disability, and Chronic Illness

Sexual expression for people with disabilities and chronic conditions is explored. Learners develop inclusive, adaptive approaches to sexual health support.

Lesson 3 • Childhood Sexual Development

Normal sexual curiosity and development in children are distinguished from concerning behaviours. Learners apply developmentally appropriate response strategies.

Lesson 4 • Sexuality in Older Adults

Physical, psychological, and social factors affecting sexuality in later life are examined. Learners challenge ageist assumptions and support older adults' sexual well-being.

Lesson 1 • Trauma-Informed Practice Principles

Core trauma-informed care principles—safety, trustworthiness, and empowerment—are applied. Learners adapt their professional practice to avoid re-traumatisation.

Lesson 2 • Understanding Sexual Trauma

Types, prevalence, and neurobiological impacts of sexual trauma are examined. Learners distinguish acute trauma responses from complex and developmental trauma.

Lesson 3 • Healing, Recovery, and Post-Traumatic Growth

Pathways to sexual healing and post-traumatic growth are mapped. Learners support survivors in reclaiming sexual agency and well-being.

Lesson 4 • Intimate Partner Violence

Forms of intimate partner violence—physical, emotional, sexual, and financial—are identified. Learners apply safety planning and risk assessment frameworks.