Advanced Topics in Interpersonal Practice

This course will provide students an overview of the multiple ways that sexuality impacts contemporary family relationships. While sexuality is often thought of as intensely personal and private, in this course we explore how the social context of the family shapes sexual experiences, health and inequality. In addition to gaining a general familiarity with how sexuality impacts families, this course will provide a more in-depth analysis of three specific instances of sexuality in families: conversations about sexuality and sex education, “coming out” as Transgender, Bisexual, Lesbian and Gay (TBLG), and sexual health. This course identifies best practice strategies for addressing issues of sexuality that arise in a family context, with a focus on how social workers may use these skills in their work with families and family members.