CHAPTER-2-MODULE-6-7-THE-PHYSICAL-SELF-SEXUAL-SELF.

Introduction to Understanding the Self

  • Course Title: Understanding the Self

  • Department: College of Arts & Sciences

  • Semester: 1st Semester A.Y. 2021-2022

  • Module 6: Unpacking the Self

  • Section 1: The Physical Self

Rationale

  • Explains biological and environmental factors shaping the physical self.

  • Discusses socio-cultural issues related to physical well-being.

Intended Learning Outcomes

  1. Discuss concepts of heredity and maturation.

  2. Identify biological and environmental factors impacting the physical self.

  3. Analyze and evaluate issues related to physical well-being.

Exploring Physical Features

  • Significance of Physical Features: Recognized through face, structure, height, weight.

  • Considerations: Physical competencies, valuation of worth, standards of beauty.

  • Factors Affecting Physical Self: Both biological and environmental contributions.

Discussion on Biological Blueprint

  • Physical Attributes: Include height, weight, and characteristics like skin and hair color shaped by heredity.

  • Understanding Heredity: Transmission of traits from parents to offspring.

Genetic Concepts

  • Genotype vs. Phenotype:

    • Genotype: Genetic composition, mainly unobservable.

    • Phenotype: Observable characteristics influenced by the genotype.

  • Dominant vs. Recessive Genes: Examples illustrating the inheritance of traits.

Environmental Influences on Physical Development

  • Influence of Family: Early nutrition and hygiene practices are crucial.

  • Adolescence Awareness: Increased consciousness of physical appearance influenced by peers.

  • Social Media & Standards of Beauty: Impact on body type perceptions, leading to healthy or unhealthy lifestyle choices.

Risks During Adolescence

  • Eating Disorders: Bulimia, anorexia nervosa triggered by societal pressure.

  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures to enhance features can lead to negative consequences.

Achieving Physical Well-Being

Healthy Practices

  1. Nutrition: Eat appropriate amounts and combinations for optimal health.

  2. Lifestyle Choices: Avoid harmful habits; engage in physical activities.

  3. Hygiene Maintenance: Regular self-care habits improve overall well-being.

  4. Self-Confidence: Embrace a positive self-image beyond physical appearance.

Activities and Reflections

  • Picture Collage Assignment: Illustrate personal growth and physical changes.

Reflection Questions

  1. What changes have you experienced growing up?

  2. What factors contributed to these changes?

  3. Do you wish to change anything about your current appearance? Why or why not?

Section 2: The Sexual Self

  • Rationale: Discusses biological and environmental factors in sexual development.

Intended Learning Outcomes

  1. Explore concepts surrounding the sexual self.

  2. Identify contributors to sexual development.

  3. Interpret the expression of sexual behavior.

Socio-Biological Aspects of Sexuality

  • Definition: Sexual self involves biological, physical, emotional, and social aspects.

  • Adolescence Stage: Period of sexual discovery influenced by socio-cultural and biological factors.

Biological Changes During Development

  • Genital Development: Distinguishes males (penis) and females (vagina) at birth.

  • Puberty Changes: Observable transformations in body leading to sexual readiness.

Understanding Sexual Responses

  • Sexual Cycle Phases: Excitement, plateau, orgasm, resolution.

  • Engagement in Sexual Activities: Common activities include masturbation and exploration of sexual media.

Sexual Behavior Responsibility

Risks of Impulsive Sexual Choices

  • Consequences: Pregnancy risks, STDs, including HIV/AIDS.

Responsible Sexual Behavior

  • Key principles: Respect for self, maturity in decisions, alignment with personal values, future-minded thinking.

Understanding SOGIE

  • SOGIE: Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Gender Expression.

Important Pointers

  1. Diversity: Human sexuality encompasses a range of experiences.

  2. Sex vs. Gender: Understanding the distinction is crucial for societal perception.

  3. Gender Identity: Not solely determined by assigned sex at birth.

  4. Expression: Influenced by multiple factors, may deviate from societal norms.

  5. Sexual Orientation: Includes various identities beyond traditional categorizations.