Understanding the Self

A set of vocabulary flashcards to help understand key concepts related to the self, particularly in the context of physical and sexual identity, health, and cultural influences.

Self

The individual's understanding of their own identity, encompassing thoughts, beliefs, and experiences.

Physical self

The tangible aspect of an individual, including bodily characteristics and health.

Sexual self

An aspect of the self that refers to an individual's sexual identity and orientation.

Cultural factors

Elements of culture, such as media and community, that shape body image and self-esteem.

Body image

The subjective perception a person has of their physical body and the thoughts and feelings that result from that perception.

Self-esteem

An individual's sense of their own worth or value.

Reproductive system

The organ system responsible for reproduction, involving gametes, copulation, and gestation.

Gametes

Reproductive cells: ova in females and spermatozoa in males.

Copulation

The act of sexual intercourse, involving the insertion of the penis into the vagina.

Secondary sexual characteristics

Features that appear at puberty, influencing physical traits associated with gender.

Endometriosis

A condition in which tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus.

Infertility

The inability to conceive after one year of trying; can affect both males and females.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Infections passed through sexual contact, such as syphilis and HIV.

Contraception

Methods used to prevent conception, such as hormonal pills and barrier devices.

Klinefelter syndrome

A genetic disorder in males caused by an extra X chromosome, leading to various physical and developmental symptoms.

Turner syndrome

A genetic condition in females characterized by the absence of one X chromosome.

Intersexuality

A condition in which an individual has both male and female biological characteristics.

Menstruation

The monthly shedding of the uterine lining in females.

Ejaculation

The expulsion of semen from the male reproductive system during orgasm.

Embryo

An early stage of development in mammals, forming after fertilization.

Pelvic bones

The bony structure located in the lower part of the torso that supports the legs and houses the reproductive organs.

Genitalia

The external and internal organs involved in reproduction.

Fertility

The natural capability to produce offspring.

Condom

A barrier device used during sexual intercourse to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy and STI transmission.

HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS.

PrEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, a preventive treatment for individuals at high risk of HIV.

Body fat distribution

The way body fat is spread across the body, often differing between genders.

Hormonal changes

Alterations in hormone levels that affect physical and emotional development in individuals.