GENDER & SOCIETY “The sense of ourselves as men, women or

other gendered beings “.

Examples:
LESSON 1: SEX, GENDER AND SEXUALITY
Cisgender: Gender identity matches the sex assigned
Biological Sex or Physical Sex at birth.
-refers to the anatomical and physiological Transgender: Gender identity differs from the sex
characteristics of maleness or femaleness; associated assigned at birth.
with REPRODUCTION.
Non-binary: Individuals who do not exclusively
Genetics - is the study of how genes and how traits are identify as male or female.
passed down from one generation to the next. Genes
carry information that affects health, appearance, and Genderqueer, Genderfluid, Agender: Other identities
even personality. that challenge the binary framework.

CHARACTERISTICS OF MALE 2. Gender Expression or Presentation - This refers to

how individuals present their gender through clothing,
Produces sperm - male sex cell, produce in testicle to hairstyles, mannerisms, speech, movement and other
fertilized egg cell/ovum. external behaviors.
Testosterone - sex hormone for development of male Gender expression is not necessarily tied to gender
characteristic & reproductive tissue, bone density, identity. For example, a person who identifies as male
muscle mass & sex drive. may choose to wear makeup or traditionally feminine
CHARACTERISTICS OF FEMALE attire.

Produces egg cells/ovum-largest cell in human body. 3. Gender Roles behaviors, and expectations to
individuals based on their perceived gender.
Estrogen- hormone help develop & regulate female
reproductive system & secondary sex characteristics. Example: Traditional roles: Women as caregivers and
men as breadwinners.
Progesterone – a steroid hormone that plays a key role
in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and other Modern shifts: Greater acceptance of shared
reproductive processes. It’s a derivative of cholesterol responsibilities and breaking stereotypes.
and is produce in ovaries, adrenal gland and placenta. GENDER: BIOLOGY & CULTURE
Hermaphroditism - organisms having both male and Gender is determined by a large variety of factors, both
female sex organs or other sexual characteristics, either biological and cultural.
abnormally or (in the case of some organisms) as the
natural condition. Gender socialization: the process of learning and
internalizing the norms of our gender.
➢ from a 2 Greek word “Hermes – male Greek
god; Aprodite - female Greek goddess) Biological factors (provide the sex development)

Intersex – is used on the modern time Chromosomes: The X and Y chromosomes that
determine sex
❖ Gender - refer to the social, cultural, and
psychological attribute, role and expectation, Anatomy: Internal and external sex organs
that societies associated with ideas of being Hormones: Levels of estrogen and testosterone
male, female or other genders.
Cultural factors (shapes gender roles, behaviors, and
COMPONENT OF GENDER identities.
1. Gender Identity - This is an individual’s deeply
felt sense of their own gender, which may or
may not align with their sex assigned at birtht
Socialization: How children are raised and taught bisexual people are attracted to more than one gender,
gender roles pansexual people emphasize that gender doesn't affect
their attraction – their focus is on the person, not their
Expectations: What is considered appropriate for men
gender.
and women
6. Asexual: also called “ace” feel little to no sexual
Stereotypes: Socially constructed ideas about what it
attraction to others. This means they usually don’t have
means to be masculine or feminine
a desire for sexual relationships, though many asexual
Relationships: How men, women, boys, and girls people still build close emotional or romantic
interact with each other. connections. Some asexual people are also aromantic,
meaning they don’t experience romantic attraction,
Biological factors (provide the sex development)
while others may want romantic relationships without
Chromosomes: The X and Y chromosomes that sexual attraction. Asexuality is a spectrum – some
determine sex. people might feel sexual attraction in certain situations,
while others may not experience it at all.
Anatomy: Internal and external sex organs.
7. Androsexual: This term is used to describe people
Hormones: Levels of estrogen and testosterone
who are attracted to those with masculine qualities,
Heteronormativity - This phenomenon of determining regardless of their gender. This means an androsexual
the normality of a behavior based on whether it person may feel attraction to men, nonbinary people,
conforms or not to the expectations relative to one’s or others who express masculinity.
biological sex.
8. Gynesexual: This term is used to describe people
Sexual Orientation - is a term used to refer to a who are attracted to those with feminine qualities,
person's pattern of emotional, romantic, and sexual regardless of their gender. This means a gynesexual
attraction to people of a particular gender. person may feel attraction to women, nonbinary
people, or others who express femininity.
TYPES OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION
9. Demisexual: is someone who only feels sexual
1. Heterosexual: also known as “straight,” are
attraction after building a strong emotional connection
emotionally, sexually, or romantically attracted to
with someone. Unlike people who might feel attracted
people of the opposite gender (men attracted to
to others right away or based on appearance,
women, and women attracted to men).
demisexual people need to build a close connection
2. Gay: refers to men who are attracted to other men, first empowering way to express who they are.
but some women who are attracted to women identify
10. Queer: Queer is a broad, flexible term that can
this way, too. More generally, it describes people who
mean different things to different people, but it’s often
are attracted to their same or similar gender.
used to describe a sexual orientation or gender identity
3. Lesbian: is a woman who is romantically or sexually that doesn’t fit into traditional labels. Although "queer"
attracted to people of their same or similar gender. was once used as an insult, many people in the LGBTQ+
community have reclaimed it as a positive and
4. Bisexual: People who are attracted to both the same
empowering way to express who they are.
gender and other genders. Bisexuality can involve
attraction to a variety of gender identities, not just male
or female, and it doesn’t necessarily mean a person is
LESSON 2: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF
equally attracted to all genders. Being in a relationship
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
with someone of a specific gender doesn’t change or
erase a person’s bisexual identity. Anatomy:

5. Pansexual: is someone who feels romantic or sexual The study of the body's internal and external structures
attraction to people of any gender. Pansexuality is often
The physical arrangement of the body's parts
confused with bisexuality, but they are different. While
The study of cells, tissues, and organs contract (tighten) and relax. The scrotum contracts to
move the testicles closer to the body for warmth and
Physiology:
protection. It relaxes away from your body to cool
The study of how the body's structure function them.

The study of the chemistry and physics of the body's 3. Testicles - Also known as testes are oval-shaped
structures organs that lie in the scrotum. They’re about the size of
two large olives.
The study of how the body's structures work together
to maintain life The spermatic cord holds the testicles in place and
supplies them with blood.
FUNCTION OF MALE SYSTEM
Most people have two testicles, on the left and right
-Produce, maintain and transport sperm cells and
side of their scrotum.
semen.
Testicles make testosterone and produce sperm.
-Sperm cells are male reproductive cells. Semen is the
Within your testicles are coiled masses of tubes. These
protective fluid around sperm.
are the seminiferous tubules. The seminiferous tubules
-Discharge sperm. produce sperm cells through spermatogenesis.

-Produce and secrete male sex hormones. 4. Epididymis - is a long, coiled tube that rests on the
back of each testicle.
EXTERNAL PART OF MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
It carries and stores the sperm cells that the testicles
1. Penis - is the male organ for sexual intercourse. It
create.
contains many sensitive nerve endings, and it has three
parts. Epididymis also brings the sperm to maturity — the
sperm that emerge from your testicles are immature
a. Root - is the base of the penis. It attaches to the wall
and incapable of fertilization. During sexual arousal,
of abdomen.
muscle contractions force the sperm into your vas
b. Body (shaft). The body has a shape like a tube or deferens.
cylinder. It consists of three internal chambers: the two
INTERNAL PART OF MALE REPRODUCTION SYSTEM
larger chambers are the corpora cavernosa, and the
third chamber is the corpus spongiosum. The corpora 1. Vas deferens - is a long, muscular tube that travels
cavernosa are paired cylinder of erectile tissue that fill from the epididymis into the pelvic cavity, to just
with blood during arousal, while the corpus behind the bladder. It transports mature sperm to the
spongiosum contains the urethra, which prevent it urethra, the tube that carries pee or sperm to outside
from closing during erection. of your body, in preparation for ejaculation.

c. Glans (head). The glans is the cone-shaped tip of 2. Ejaculatory ducts - These are formed by the fusion of
penis. A loose layer of skin (foreskin) covers the glans. the vas deferens and the seminal vesicles. The
Healthcare providers sometimes surgically remove the ejaculatory ducts empty into the urethra.
foreskin (circumcision)
3. Urethra - a tube that carries pee from the bladder to
2. Scrotum - it is a loose, pouch-like sac of skin that outside of your body. It has the additional function of
hangs behind the penis. It holds testicles (testes) as well ejaculating semen at orgasm. When your penis is erect
as nerves and blood vessels. during sex, the flow of pee is blocked from the urethra,
allowing only semen to be ejaculated at orgasm.
scrotum protects testicles and provides a sort of
“climate-control system.” For normal sperm 4. Seminal vesicles - are sac-like pouches that attach to
development, testes must be at a temperature that’s the vas deferens near the base of bladder. Produce a
slightly cooler than body temperature (between 97 sugar-rich fluid (fructose) that provides sperm with a
nand 99 degrees Fahrenheit or 36 and 37 degrees source of energy to help them move.
Celsius). Special muscles in the wall of scrotum let it
5. Prostate gland - is a walnut-size structure that is 1. Erectile dysfunction- also known as impotence, this
located below bladder and in front of rectum. It is the inability to get or maintain an
contributes additional fluid to the ejaculate. erection. It's more common in men over 40.

6. Bulbourethral gland - Also called Cowper's glands, 2. Prostate disease - It is the most common cancer in
these are pea-size structures located on the sides of the men after skin cancer.
urethra just below your prostate gland.
3. Testicular cancer -most commonly affects men
These glands produce a clear, slippery fluid that between the ages of 15 and 45.
empties directly into the urethra. This fluid serves to
4. Infertility - is the inability to get someone pregnant,
lubricate the urethra and to neutralize any acidity that
which can be caused by low sperm production or
may be present due to remaining drops of pee in the
blockages.
urethra.
5. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) -these are
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Your pituitary
bacterial or viral infections that are passed on through
gland makes FSH. FSH is necessary to produce sperm
sexual contact.
(spermatogenesis).
6. Epididymitis - is an inflammation of the epididymis,
Luteinizing hormone (LH). Your pituitary gland also
which is the coiled tube at the back of the
makes LH. LH is necessary to continue the process of
testicle. Symptoms include pain and tenderness in one
spermatogenesis.
testicle, and a swollen or discolored scrotum.
Testosterone. Testosterone is the main sex hormone in
7. Premature ejaculation - is a condition that affects the
people AMAB. It helps you develop certain
ability to control ejaculation.
characteristics, including muscle mass and strength, fat
distribution, bone mass and sex drive (libido). FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

MALE PHYSICAL CHANGES DURING PUBERTY KEY FUNCTION OF FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

1. Growth spurt: Boys grow taller and heavier. 1. EGG PRODUCTION

2. Bone growth: Boys lay down 50–65% of their total 2. OVULATION

body calcium during puberty.
3. FERTILIZATION
3. Voice changes: Boys' voices deepen.
4. IMPLANTATION
4. Genital growth: Boys' testicles and scrotum enlarge.
5. PREGNANCY MAINTENANCE
5. Body hair: Boys grow body hair, including pubic hair,
6. HORMONE REGULATION
under their arms, and on their face.
EXTERNAL PART OF FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE
6. Acne: Boys may experience oily skin and acne.
SYSTEM
7. Erections: Boys may experience erections, often for
1. Vulva - also known as pudendum
no reason.
- the outer part of female reproductive system
8. Ejaculation: Boys may experience ejaculation,
including during sleep, which is known as a wet dream. Parts of Vulva:

9. Sperm production: Boys' bodies produce sperm. Labia majora - known as large lips enclose and protect
the other external reproductive organs.
10. Broadening of shoulders and chest: Boys'
shoulders and chest broaden. During puberty, hair growth occurs on the skin of the
labia majora, which also contain sweat and oil-
secreting glands.
COMMON CONDITIONS /DISEASE THAT AFFECT THE MALE
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
b. Labia minora: known as small lips lie inside labia WHEN DOES PUBERTY OCCURS?
majora, and surround the opening of vagina (the canal
• Girls: Puberty usually begins between the ages
that joins the lower part of the uterus to the outside of
of 8 and 13.
body) and urethra (the tube that carries pee from
bladder to the outside of the body). • Boys: Puberty usually begins between the ages
of 9 and 14.
c. Clitoris: is a female sexual organ that is responsible
for sexual pleasure. comparable to penis of male. Key Male Puberty Characteristics

d. Vaginal opening: allows menstrual blood and babies 1. Genital development

to exit body.
2. Hair Growth
e. Hymen: is a piece of tissue covering or surrounding
3. Voice Change
part of your vaginal opening. It’s formed during
development and present during birth. 4. Growth Spurt – rapid increase of height

INTERNAL PART OF FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM 5. Muscle development

VAGINA - Passageway for sperm to reach the uterus and 6. Skin changes – oily skin and acne appear
for childbirth.
7. Nocturnal emissions (wet dream) – involuntary
b. FALLOPIAN TUBE- transport eggs from ovaries to ejaculate during sleep occur.
uterus; and site of fertilization
8. Sexual feeling and erection
c. UTERUS - where a fertilized egg implants and
Female Puberty Characteristics
develops into a fetus; also known as WOMB
1. Breast Development
d. CERVIX - is a small canal that connects uterus and
vagina. 2. Public hair growth

- allows fluids, such as menstrual blood, to pass from 3. Underarm hair growth
the uterus into the vagina. It also widens during the
4. Growth Spurt
birth of a baby.
5. Body shape changes – hip widen and the body
e. OVARIES
curvaceous due to fat distribution
Produce eggs cell/ova and sex hormones (estrogen and
6. Menarche (first menstrual period)
progesterone)
7. Acne – break out on the face, chest & back due
Estrogen – influence females sex characteristics and
to hormonal changes
initiates menstrual cycle.
8. Increase body odor
Progesterone – aid in regulation of menstrual cycle and
promotes mature development of uterine lining allow Menstrual Cycle is a monthly process that occurs in
for zygote implantation people with a uterus, preparing the body for a possible
pregnancy. It usually lasts about 28 days, but it can
As a many as 1million immature ova are present at
range from 21 to 35 days in different individuals. The
birthwith about 400,000 surviving to puberty. Only
cycle is controlled by hormones and is divided into four
400-450 typically brought to maturity and released into
main phases:
the fallopian tubes.
1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)
PUBERTY - is the process of physical and hormonal that
lead to sexual maturity and 2. Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)
the ability to reproduce. 3. Ovulation Phase (Day 14 - Midpoint of Cycle)

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5) ➢ If you fall pregnant, you won't have a period. If
you don't get pregnant, you'll have a period
➢ The uterus sheds its inner lining
and the menstrual cycle will start again.
(endometrium) if pregnancy has not occurred.
This results in menstrual bleeding (period) Corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine gland that
forms in the ovary after ovulation. It's a vital part of the
➢ Estrogen and progesterone levels drop,
menstrual cycle and fertility.
triggering menstruation.
What does the corpus luteum do?
➢ Low estrogen and progesterone levels cause
the uterus to break down where blood flow 1. Produces hormones that prepare the uterus for
from the uterus through the vagina. pregnancy

2. The follicular phase 2. Regulates the menstrual cycle

➢ a menstrual cycle when the pituitary gland 3. Maintains the uterine environment for implantation
release Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and pregnancy
which help multiple follicles grow in the
PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH MENSTRUATION
ovaries. The mature follicles in the ovaries
mature and prepare for release. 1. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) – 80%-95%
women experience on physical and emotional
➢ It's also known as the proliferative phase
discomfort before menstruation
because of the changes that occur in the
endometrium. 2. Dysmenorrhea: Extremely painful cramps
during menstruation cause by over production
➢ The phase starts on the first day of
of prostaglandin, causing the uterine muscle to
you(woman) period and lasts for 13 to 14 days.
contract.
Changing hormone levels cause the lining of
the uterus to thicken and follicles to grow on 3. Amenorrhea - disruption or absence of
the surface of the ovaries. Usually only one menstruation
follicle will mature into an egg
4. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Painful
3. Ovulation (day 14-midpoint of cycle) periods, heavy discharge, and lower abdominal
pain
➢ Ovulation is when a mature egg is released
from an ovary. MENOPAUSE

➢ A surge in Luteinizing Hormone causes ➢ describes the stage of a woman's life when her
ovulation This usually happens once a month, menstrual periods stop permanently, and she
about 2 weeks before your next period. can no longer get pregnant.

➢ Estrogen peak before ovulation. ➢ occur usually at the age 45-50.

➢ You're most likely to get pregnant if you have ➢ may experience: hot flashes, night sweat, sleep
unprotected sex around the time of ovulation. disturbance (resulting in fatigue, irritability,
short term memory loss, difficult
4. The luteal phase
concentrating), headache, anxiety, depression
➢ After ovulation, the egg travels through the and difficulty of becoming sexually arouse.
fallopian tubes to uterus.

➢ The ruptured follicle that released the egg

becomes the corpus luteum that produces
progesterone

➢ The uterus lining continues to thicken in

preparation for pregnancy.
LESSON 3: THE REPRODUCTION PROCESS Pregnancy Duration - A normal pregnancy lasts 37-42
weeks (about nine months), counted from the first day
Ovulation - The process when a mature ovum is
of the last menstrual period.
released from the ovary and travels to the fallopian
tube for possible fertilization. Trimester Division - Pregnancy is divided into three
trimesters, each with distinct characteristics.
Fertilization - Union of the sperm cell and the egg cell
(ovum) Fetus Development - After eight weeks, the embryo is
referred to as a fetus.
Pregnancy - The process when offspring develops
within the mother’s womb. HEALTH EFFECTS OF EARLY PREGNANCY IN THE
GROWING ADOLESCENT
Reproduction - or procreation or breeding) is the
biological process by which new individual organisms – Health Risks: Early pregnancy poses serious health risks
"offspring" – are produced from their "parent" or due to a young woman's physical immaturity.
parents.
❖ Pelvic Development: Women under 20 often
HOW DOES ONE OVULATE? have pelvic areas that are still growing, which
may lead to obstructed labor.
● Onset of Menstrual Cycle: The major landmark
of puberty for females is the beginning of the ❖ Obstructed Labor: Obstructed labor is most
menstrual cycle. common among very young mothers due to a
size mismatch between the infant’s head and
● Cycle Definition: The menstrual cycle is
the mother’s pelvis.
defined as the period from the first day of
menstruation until the day before the next ❖ Cesarean Section: In severe cases, a cesarean
period starts. section may be necessary to safely deliver the
baby.
● Average Duration: The cycle typically lasts
around 28 days but can range from 21 to 40 ❖ Maternal Mortality: Adolescent pregnancy is a
days. significant contributor to high maternal
mortality rates.
● Ovulation Timing: Ovulation occurs
approximately 10-16 days before the start of ❖ Uterine Tearing: Lack of physical maturity can
the next period. lead to uterine tearing during birth, resulting in
severe blood loss and potential death.
HOW DOES PREGNANCY OCCUR?
❖ Fistula Consequences: Fistulas can create
Sexual Intercourse - The process begins with sexual
holes between the vagina and bladder or
intercourse, where the penis enters the vagina.
rectum, leading to incontinence. The risks of
Ejaculation - Sperm is released into the vagina during obstructed labor include severe complications
ejaculation. or death, as well as long-term conditions like
vesico-vaginal fistula.
Sperm Journey - Sperm swims through the cervix into
the womb and then to the fallopian tubes. ❖ Safest Age for Childbearing: The ages of 20-30
are considered the safest for childbearing. Girls
Egg Release - When the egg (ovum) is released into the
aged 12-16 are still growing, with their pelvis
fallopian tube, sperm travel to meet it.
potentially widening by up to 20% as they
Fertilization - A sperm penetrates the egg in the mature.
fallopian tube, resulting in fertilization and the
Higher Risk for Young Mothers
formation of an embryo.
❖ Girls in their early teens face a significantly
Implantation - The fertilized egg (embryo) attaches to
higher risk of complications during pregnancy
the inner lining of the uterus, marking the official start
and childbirth compared to older women
of pregnancy.
These complications can be any or a combination of the • Use warm water and a small amount of
following: shampoo, avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent
scalp irritation or hair damage.
1. Excessive vomiting
2. Hypertension • Optionally, follow up with a conditioner
3. Convulsion designed for oily hair.
4. Severe Anemia
• Be cautious with styling products, as some can
5. Prolonged Labor
add extra grease to the hair. Look for
6. Difficulty in breast feeding
"greaseless" or "oil-free" formulas.
7. Infection
8. Premature and low weight birth babies SWEAT AND BODY ODOR
9. High maternal morality or death
• Perspiration becomes stronger-smelling during
puberty due to more active sweat glands and
changes in sweat composition.
LESSON 4: SEXUAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE
• Sweat can lead to odors in areas like
Health - A state of complete physical, mental, and social
underarms, feet, and genitals.
well-being and not merely the absence of disease and
infirmity. • To stay clean, bathe or shower daily using mild
soap and warm water to wash away bacteria.
Hygiene - Refers to behaviors that can improve
cleanliness and lead to good health, such as frequent • Wearing clean clothes, socks, and underwear
handwashing, face washing, and bathing with soap and helps maintain cleanliness.
water.
• Cotton or natural fiber clothing absorbs sweat
Sexual Health - Refers to a state of physical, emotional, effectively.
mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it
• Deodorants mask odor, while antiperspirants
is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or
stop or reduce perspiration.
infirmity.
• Deodorants and antiperspirants come in
Reproductive Health - Refers to the state of complete
various forms (sticks, roll-ons, gels, sprays,
physical, mental and social well-being and not merely
creams).
the absence of disease or infirmity in all matters
relating to the reproductive system and to its functions • Products for men and women are mostly the
and processes at all stages of life. same, with differences in scent.

OILY HAIR • Some deodorants and antiperspirants are more

effective when applied at night, while others
• Hormones during puberty can cause excess oil
are for morning use.
production in hair, leading to a greasy
appearance. • Not all teens need deodorants or
antiperspirants if they maintain good hygiene.
• Each hair has its own sebaceous gland that
keeps it shiny and waterproof, but excess oil • Commercials may pressure you to use
can make hair appear too shiny. products, but if you don't have body odor and
practice good hygiene, you might not need
• Washing hair every day or every other day can
them.
help manage oiliness.
BODY HAIR
• Choose shampoos formulated for oily hair for
better control. • Body hair grows in new places during puberty
due to hormonal changes.
 • Shaving is a personal choice; some prefer to • Be aware of abnormal fluids from our vagina.
remove hair, while others let it grow. Do not confuse this with normal vaginal fluids.

• Options for shaving include traditional razors • If you see any changes in the vaginal fluid-a
with shaving cream/gel or electric razoShaving change in color or odor, please visit a health
cream or gel is better than soap for a smoother professional.
shave.
Healthcare Check for the Male
• Some razors have built-in shaving gel for added Keeping the external male genitalia clean:
comfort.
• Wash the external genitalia at least daily with
• Shave slowly, especially in tricky areas like legs, soap and water, as you wash the rest of the
armpits, and the face, to avoid cuts. body.

• An adult or older sibling can provide guidance • Boys who are not circumcised need to pull back
on shaving techniques. the foreskin and gently wash underneath it
with clean water.
• Shaving pubic hair may cause irritation and
itchiness when it grows back. • Be aware of any abnormal fluids coming from
your penis. Do not confuse this with the
• A sharp, new razor blade helps prevent cuts
presence of normal fluids.
and nicks.
• If you see any abnormal fluid or wound, please
DENTAL HYGIENE
visit a health professional.
• Proper tooth care at home is crucial for
preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
LESSON 5: RISKY BEHAVIOURS OF ADOLESCENCE
• Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day
removes plaque, a layer of bacteria on teeth. Risk – the probability that a hazard in the environment
can actually negatively affect individual.
• Brushing also stimulates gums, keeping them
healthy and preventing gum disease. Risk Taking – A behaviors of doing something
regardless of potential loss.
Keeping the external female genitalia clean:
DATA ON NON-SEXUAL BEHAVIORS:
• Use soap and water to wash the external
genitalia and your underarms every day, - 20.7% OF ADOLESCENTS IN THE COUNTRY ARE
especially during menstruation. SMOKING
- 38.7% IS DRINKING ALCOHOL
• Use either a disposable of made of cotton,
- MORE THAN 3 IN 100 ADOLESCENTS HAVE
which has a nylon base, or a clean piece of
USED DRUGS
cotton cloth to absorb blood during
- GREATER THAN 8 IN 100 HAVE EVER THOUGHT
menstruation.
OF SUICIDE
• Properly dispose of the pad after each use, or - THOSE WHO ATTEMTED SUICIDE DECREASE
wash and dry the piece of cloth use as a 2.4%
menstrual pad before use.
IDENTIFIED SEXUAL RISK THAT WERE FOUND AMONG
• Wash only the external genitalia. Do not try to THE GROWING FILIPINO ADOLESCENTS ARE AS
clean the inside part of the vagina. FOLLOWS:

• While washing, when starting from the vagina - ONE IN THREE HAS SEXUAL EXPERIENCE
towards the anus. Do not wash from the anus - THEY ARE ALSO ENGAGE IN SEX AT YOUNGER
towards the vagina. This will allow germs to AGES
enter the inner genitalia easily and cause - ONE IN 50 HAD SEX BEFORE 15
infection.
 - 1.2% HAVE PAID FOR SEX AND 1.3% HAVE energy, irritable, panic attacks, reduce
RECEIVED PAYMENT FOR SEX appetite, talkativeness.
- 6.7% HAVE ENGAGED IN CASUAL SEX 8. Ecstacy – is a stimulant in a form of tablet, it
- 4.1% MOSTLY MALES HAVE FUBU speeds up the user’s system by increasing
- 6.3% MALES HAVING SEX WITH MALES his/her physical and emotional energy.
9. Inhalant and Solvents – are chemicals that can
TROUBLE SIGNS AMONG TEENS:
be inhaled. These are not drugs it is legally
- SEXUAK PROMISCUITY available from a large number of shops. You
- REGULAR USE OF DRUGS AND ALCOHOL may feel numb, dizzy, confused and drowsy.
- SKIPPING SCHOOLS
- RUNNING AWAY
- AGGRESSIVE OUTBURST LESSON 6: GENDER AND SEXUALITY AS A
- REFUSAL TO WORK PSYCHOSOCIAL ISSUE

HARMFUL PRACTICES Psychosocial - pertains to the influence of social factors

on an individual’s mind or behavior, and to the
1. Marijuana – usually people smoke the leaves
interrelation of behavioral and social factors. It is
but the leaves and stem can be made into tea
comprised by two primary aspects: psychological and
or even cookies. It causes, increase in heart
social.
rate, gum disease, chronic bronchial irritation,
impairment of the immune system etc. Psychological - refers to anything associated with
2. Mairungi – a stimulant leaf that is chewed in mental process and behavior.
much of East Asia. It can help someone feel
Social - refers to anything associated with human
more awake, confident, energetic and can
relationships, connection, and interaction.
reduce hunger. Effects of these are
sleeplessness, anxiety, aggressive behavior, The psychological aspect of gender and sexuality
hallucinations and unable to get an erection for anchors itself on the field of psychology. Psychology is
men users. a field of science which concerns itself with how
3. Alcohol – this is the most common drug and is people think and feel and how thoughts and feelings
used worldwide. Effects of these are slurred interact and lead to behavior. There are three primary
speech, vomiting, unsafe sex, dying, psychological domains: affect, behavior, and
unconsciousness, impaired ability to make cognition.
healthy and safe decisions.
The social aspect of gender and sexuality primarily
4. Cigarettes – reasons why people start smoking
anchors itself on the field of sociology and allied fields
because of peer influence, seductive
such as social psychology. In essence, Sociology is a
advertisement. Effects of these are death,
field of science which concerns itself with the human
addiction, lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases.
person's realities and experiences as part of groups
5. Cocaine – It is often called ‘champagne of
and institutions, including the structures and
drugs’ because of its high cost. It can be
functions of these institutions, and the dynamics of
smoked or injected. Effects of these are hugh
human relationships within them.
body temperature, fast heartbeat, strokes,
seizures, heart failure, weight loss. Awareness
6. Heroin – this is a drug obtained from morphine
In simpler terms, awareness is our conscious
and comes from opium poppy plant. It can be
understanding of something. As individuals, we are in
injected, snorted, smoked or inhaled. Inhaling
constant process towards self-awareness.
the heroin is often called ‘chasing the dragon’.
7. Amphetamines – are stimulants that affect a Intimacy and Relationship
person’s system by speeding up the activity of
In certain situations, when two people recognize and
the brain and giving energy. Effects of these are
become aware of each other, they decide to keep close
increase heart rate, faster breathing, extra
distance in each other's lives, share their personal LESSON 7: LOVE, INTIMACY AND RELATIONSHIP
bubbles, so to speak, and allow frequency of
LOVE - a complex phenomenon characterized by an
interaction between them. This forges some form of
effective and cognitive inclination to someone and a set
human relationship-a bond formed between two or
of social behaviors geared towards cohesion
more people, manifested through communication and
interaction. While in these relationships, we share INTIMACY - psychosocial component of love; knowing
resources and emotions, we, as individuals, constantly and being known by someone in a deeply personal
aim to further understand our own selves as we also try level; emotional closeness and connection.
to understand others and be understood by them. This
PASSION - Emotive and physical component of love;
process of knowing others and allowing others to know
drive toward sexual and romantic attraction.
us is intimacy.
COMMITMENT - Decision to engage and maintain a
Well-being as a Psychosocial Goal
loving relationship.
The ultimate goal of understanding the psychosocial
RELATIONSHIP - Social bond between and among
aspects of our experiences is well-being -a state of
individual manifested through communication and
satisfaction, meaning, and purpose. There are two
other forms of interaction.
sides to well-being:
This bond may be biological or determined by social
Objective well-being - the kind of well-being which is
contracts such as social consensus or laws.
observed, outward, and can be evaluated through the
presence or absence of particular elements in our “Filipinos most Expressive about Love among Asia
environment. Pacific Countries - Study.”

Subjective well-being - refers to our personal an article was published in a national newspaper
experience of satisfaction, meaning, and purpose. featuring the study by McCann World Groups last
February 15, 2015.

- involves 30,000 respondents from 29 countries.

Dimensions of Well-being - Based on what well-being
means, we can see that there are various dimensions - study shows that Filipinos were the sixth most
into it. The following are just the primary dimensions articulate and expressive about love among the
surveyed countries
-Physical - physical/biological health;
- saying “I Love You” approximately 17 times a week.
–Emotional - positive feelings; mood stability;
ROBERT STERNBERG
–Mental - clarity of mind; healthy thought process;
• Psychologist renowned for his theory of Love
–Material - available and adequate financial and other
resources; and • In his 1986 paper: “What does it mean “to
Love” someone? - does it mean the same thing
–Social - healthy and positive interaction and
and if not, in what ways do love differ from
relationship with others
each other?
One of the essential elements of our gender and
Various Forms and Interpretation of Love
sexuality is the psychosocial dimension. Aside from
upholding human dignity and human rights, one of LOVE AS A CULTURAL UNIVERSAL
the ultimate goals of our discussions of gender and
- Is a phenomenon experienced similarly by
sexuality is to ensure well-being among people of
people across time and cultures
different genders. Understanding our psychosocial
- means that humans, whether those who lived
needs and concerns, as well as the various elements
in the past or who are living now and regardless
of our psychosocial conditions as humans, is
of their geographic location and socio-cultural
necessary.
 identities, have experienced love, in one way or Thanatos (death Instinct) - manifesting in self-
another. destructive or aggressive behaviors.
- love is an experience that transcends time and
Crucial stage - relationship with our primary caregiver,
culture.
suggests attachment (psychic bond)
LOVE AS A SOCIAL PHENOMENON
2. Color Wheel of Love
• are events or experiences which ensure within
John Alan Lee (1973) - a canadian psychologists.
our interaction and relationship with other
people.

• Loving entails communication- the process of

giving and receiving information between and
among people.

• Entails the use of language - symbols that are

culturally agreed upon as possessing certain
meanings and that are used by people to
express certain realities and worldviews.

LOVE AS AN EMOTION

• psychological responses that we evaluate

psychologically as we experienced particular
life events.

• some of basic emotions: joy, sadness, fear,

disgust and anger.

• complex emotions is a combination of basic

emotions in varying magnitudes and are made
3. Triangular mode of love
intricate by circumstances surrounding the
experience. most popular theories of love by Sternberg (1986)
• Love - is a complex emotion. this theory looks at love from a psychometric stance-
generally concerned about trying to measure love as a
LOVE AS A NEUROBIOLOGICAL EVENT
psychological variable and to determine the varuos
• involves constant information processing dimensions and facets that love has as experienced by
within the nervous system via electrical signals people.
and neurotransmitters.

• the experience of love is linked to brain regions

like the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) and is
associated with increased endorphin levels,
contributing to feeling of well-being.

❖ THEORIES OF LOVE

1. Psychodynamic view on love

Sigmund Freud - (a Viennesse Neurologists) - proposes

that human desires and motivations are driven by two
fundamental instincts: Eros (life instinct) - promoting
positive relationship and self -preservation, and
3 INTERLOCKING DIMENSIONS: LOVE AND INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP

1. Intimacy - pertains to psychological/ relational George Levinger (1982)

aspects
5 Stages of Intimate Relationship
2. Passion - refers to physical/emotional aspect
1. Acquaintance
3. Commitment- pertains to agency component, choice
2. Buildup
we make with regards to engaging and maintaining the
loving relationship. 3. Continuation or Consolidation

TYPE OF LOVE 4. Deterioration or Decline

Only Passion - Infatuation 5. Ending or Termination

Only Intimacy - Liking ACQUAINTANCE

Only Commitment - Empty Love • Start of Intimate Relationship

Passion + Intimacy - Romantic Love • Getting to know each other

Passion + Commitment - Ludic/ Playful,non-committal • Crucial at this stage is attraction

Love
• Attraction happens when there is exposure due
Intimacy + Commitment - Friendly Love to proximity - repeated possibilities of
interactions
Intimacy+Commitment + Passion - Consummate Love
• Attraction can happen when you have
similarity like interests, common preference
ROMANTIC AND COMPANIONATE LOVE even beliefs and values.

• Hatfield (1987) and Rapson (1993) BUILDUP

suggests 2 general type of Love: • Acquaintance to deeper relationship

1. Romantic Love - characterized by intense passion. • Frequency of Interactions increases

“a state of intense longing for union with your partner” • begin to introduce one another to each other’s
friends and families.
2. Companionate Love - characterized by intense
intimacy - emotional closeness - characterized of liking • stage when two persons test their boundaries
before engaging fully and committing into the
LOVE LANGUAGE
relationship.
• Gary Chapman - renowned Author
CONSOLIDATION AND CONTINUATION
5 LOVE LANGUAGES
• Stage when people commit to a long-term
1. Words of Affirmation- verbally express their relationship with one another either personal
feelings and thoughts agreement or a social-legal agreement.

2. Touch- express love non-verbally through DECLINE OR DETERIORATION

hugs, kisses or simply a tap on the back.
• unable to sustain or maintain their
3. Time- value quality moments with their loved ones. commitments or attractions.

4. Gifts - show and receive affection through material • there may be a change of priorities between
objects. the individual couple.

5. Acts of Service- willing to serve the other person by • there may be infedility - breech ofloyalty and
helping her/him in things that they do. promises as agreed upon by both individuals.
there may be irreconcilable differences- already the ones responsible for higher order thinking (e.g.,
harming each individual and the partnership as a whole neocortex).

ENDING SENSES AND SEXUALITY

• intimate partnerships who are unable to Visual Experience

address the causes and circumstances leading
Humans are predominantly visual. Our societies highly
to deterioration of their relationship leads to
rely on visual culture to co- create meaning and convey
termination of the agreement made through
information.
informal or formal means.
Olfactory Experience

Olfaction in non-human animals. Which are believed to

LESSON 8: SEX AND SENSES
be microsmatic organism, or organisms having greater
Definition of Terms: sense of smell. Have been an interest among
psychologists since the 1950s. Conversely, humans and
•Sensorium – the totality of our senses and perception;
apes are generally believed to be microsmatic (lesser
a conglomerate of the individual sense organs.
levels of olfaction) compared to their non-ape
•Olfaction – sense of smell. counterparts. However, recent studies in the field of
human sexuality show that while we humans have
•Tactile – something associated with touch.
limited olfaction, sense of smell may play an important
•Pheromone – a substance believed to be emitted by part in our sexual response.
organisms and which is thought to be influencing social
Tactile Experiences
behaviors.
Touch is observed to be an element of intimacy. Our
•Major Histocompatibility Complex – a set of protein
body is covered in skin, often referred to as the largest
molecules associated with the immune system.
bodily organ Our skin totally accounts for 16 to 20% of
5 SENSES: our body weight. It is a sensitive organ as every square
inch of it houses more than a thousand nerve endings.
1. SIGHT
Hence, in social interaction, particularly intimate ones,
2. TASTE
touch holds meaning. There are only people who we
3. TOUCH
allow to touch us There are only parts of our bodies we
4. SMELL
allow people to touch. Touching just like any other
5. HEARING
behavior, may also be governed by social norms.
HUMAN AFFECT AND THE SENSES
Auditory Experience
Interestingly, while human beings are hailed as rational
Social interactions are not only visual, but are also
beings who are constantly making choices and are
auditory processes. Our human language often have a
behaving through a set of rational choices made from
verbal counterpart to the written language. In fact,
higher or making. (e.g., evaluating judging), it is
historically, much of our culture are passed on through
hypothesized that our affect (emotions and feelings)
oral traditions, even before the writing system was
actually play a major role in our behaviors.
developed.
Affective Primacy Hypothesis (Zajonc 1980) postulates
that in many cases, cognitive processing (ie, higher
order thinking) plays a lesser role compared to our LESSON 9: SEXUAL BEHAVIOR
emotional responses in eliciting behavior. By virtue of
DEFINITION OF TERMS
this hypothesis, by default, our emotions take
precedent primarily because these are only processed SEXUAL BEHAVIOR - are actions that humans agree to
and modulated by the limbic system-the emotional interpret as an expression of their sexual motivations
part of our brain which is more primitive compared to or intentions.
 EROTIC - related to sexual stimulation; has something the female species are facing each other
to do with the erogenous zones
ventral-dorsal position (dorsum: back), may be
SEXUAL RESPONSE CYCLE - sequence of events from assumed wherein the abdomen of the male species is
arousal to orgasm to resolution of sexual tension facing the dorsum of the female species, such that
insertion of the penis to the vagina is from behind
SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION - a concern or problem in any
of the phase of the sexual response cycle (e.g., inability Non-copulatory Sexual Behaviors:
to have an erection or orgasm, painful intercourse)
Physical intimacy, (hugging, kissing, caressing).
COPULATORY BEHAVIOR - related to the insertion of
Oral stimulation such as fellatio (oral stimulation of the
the penis to the vagina
penis) or
PARAPHILIA - arousal from nonliving objects and or
cunnilingus (oral stimulation of the vagina)
nonconsenting persons
Anal stimulation or penetration (anal sex)
PSYCHOSOCIAL PERSPECTIVE IN GENDER AND
SEXUALITY SEXUAL RESPONSE CYCLE

Psychology’s Three Components refers to the sequence of bodily changes that prepare
individuals for sexual climax. It includes physiological
Affect (emotions and feelings)
and psychological processes that occur before, during,
Cognition (thought processes) and after sexual activity, facilitating arousal, orgasm,
and resolution.
Behavior (actions)
Masters and Johnson’s Model (1966, 1970)
What is Behavior? - Actions we do, whether
observable (overt) or hidden (covert) Driven by 1. Excitement
motivation (stimuli, pleasure/pain, goals) Measurable
Male: Erection, testicular elevation, sex flush,
through:
increased heart rate.
frequency (how often)
Female: Vaginal lubrication, clitoral swelling, labia
Duration (how long) minora swelling, sex flush.

Intensity (strength of action) 2. Plateau:

Diversity (variety in different context Male: Penis enlarges, Cowper’s gland releases fluid,
testes fully elevated.
EROTIC BEHAVIOR
Female: Outer vagina swells, inner vagina expands
Involve primary or secondary erogenous zones (face,
(orgasmic platform).
neck, genitalia, chest, etc.).
3. Orgasm:
Types of Sexual Behaviors:
Male: Ejaculation due to muscular contractions.
Auto-erotic: Self-directed (e.g., masturbation).
Female: Vaginal, uterine, and anal contractions.
Homoerotic: Oriented toward the same sex.
4. Resolution:
Heteroerotic: Oriented toward the opposite sex.
Male: Penis returns to normal, testes/scrotum
COPULATORY BEHAVIORS
descend.
Copulatory Behaviors/ Copulation (for reproduction):
Female: Reproductive organs relax.
the insertion of the penis to the vagina

ventral-ventral position (ventris: abdomen), wherein

the male and
Kaplan’s Model (1979) 3. Frotteurism - touching or rubbing one's body or
genitals to nonconsenting people
1. Desire: Psychological; sexual thoughts and feelings
4. Pedophilia - arousal from children
(may not lead to action).
(prepubescent)
2. Arousal: Physical; bodily changes due to stimulation 5. Sexual Masochism - arousal from actual
(includes Excitement & Plateau). suffering or humiliation
6. Sexual Sadism - arousal from actually inflicting
3. Orgasm: Climax and completion of the sexual
pain to others
response cycle (includes Resolution).
7. Transvestic Fetishism - (for heterosexual males
SEXUAL RESPONSE DYSFUNCTIONS only) arousal from wearing clothing by the
opposite sex during sexual activities
Some people experience difficulty or problems in some
8. Voyeurism - observing other people engaged
of the sexual phases. The following are the common
in sexual activities 8.
sexual response dysfunctions:
Note: For a paraphilia to be considered a paraphilic
sexual desire disorder - when an individual has low
disorder, diagnosis has to be made. Only trained
levels of desire or has an aversion to sexual activities
psychologists or medical doctors can make such clinical
1. sexual arousal disorder - when an individual has
judgments after lengthy and comprehensive
problems in achieving necessary physiological
assessment
state for copulation (e.g., erectile dysfunction in
males)
2. orgasmic disorder - when an individual has
LESSON 10: STREOTYPE PREJUDICE AND
problems in achieving orgasm (e.g. premature
DISCRIMINATION
ejaculation among males; male and female
orgasmic disorders) Stereotypes are an "over-generalized belief about a
particular group or class of people". It can be helpful in
3. sexual pain disorders - when there is an experience
simplifying things, after all, there 77 billion people in
of pain during the sexual response
the planet. When we meet someone for the first time,
4. Sexual dysfunctions can arise from biological factors we associate with them certain characteristics and
(e.g., anatomical or physiological issues) or abilities that we usually base on the group they belong
psychological concerns that manifest physically. to.
Treatment varies based on the cause, ranging from
Prejudice is an "unjustified or incorrect attitude
biomedical approaches like medication and surgery to
(usually negative) towards an individual based solely on
psychosocial interventions such as therapy, education,
the individual's membership of a social group" (McLeod
and couples counseling
2008).
PARAPHILIAS
Discrimination refers to actions or behaviors towards
Paraphilias are atypical sexual behaviors that may be an individual or a group of people. According to the
uncommon, dangerous, socially unacceptable, or cause United Nations, "discriminatory behaviors take many
distress. The APA classifies Paraphilic Disorders as forms, but they all involve some form of exclusion or
persistent (lasting at least six months) and causing rejection".
significant distress or harm to oneself or others.
• Racial Discrimination
Common Paraphilic Disorders:
• Gender Discrimination
1. Exhibitionism - pleasure from exposing one's
• Religious Discrimination Age
genitals to nonconsenting people
2. Fetishism - arousal from non-living objects • Discrimination
(e.g., shoes, socks, body parts);
• Disability Discrimination
• Sexual Orientation Discrimination • Colonization spread these beliefs,
leading to violent persecution
• National Origin Discrimination
(burning, stoning, being fed to dogs).

19th-Century Medical Classification & Persecution

LESSON 11: LGBTQ+ PSYCHOLOGY
• Homosexuality was labeled as a
Definition of Terms: mental illness, used to justify
persecution.
LGBT Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, an acronym
used to refer to different genders. • Homosexuals faced imprisonment or
institutionalization.
Lesbian – women who are emotionally and sexually
attracted to women. • Alan Turing (1952): Prosecuted for
homosexuality, sentenced to chemical
Gay-men who are emotionally and sexually attracted to
castration, later died by cyanide
men.
poisoning
Bisexual – man or woman who are emotionally and
Modern Recognition & Acceptance
sexually attracted to men or women.
• Advancements in science led to re-
Transgender – when your gender identity (how you
evaluation of homosexuality.
feel) is different from your physical sex (male/female).
• 1973: The American Psychiatric
Historical Presence of Same-Sex Attraction
Association (APA) removed
• Recorded in many cultures throughout homosexuality from its list of mental
history. disorders.

• China (600 BC): "Pleasure of the bitten • Gay and lesbian liberation movements
peach" and "brokeback." played a key role in this change.

• Japan: "Shudo" or "Nanshoku" (male- • APA recognized same-sex attraction as

male relationships). a natural human variation, not a
disorder.
• Thailand: "Kathoey" (ladyboys).
• Today, society is more accepting, and
• Philippines: "Babaylan" and
new gender and sexual identity terms
"Catalonan" (spiritual leaders, some
continue to emerge.
were biological males living as
women). The ABC’s of the LGBTQIA+

Ancient Acceptance & Cultural Practices Lesbian – Women who are emotionally and sexually
attracted to women.
• Ancient Greece: Pederasty (older
males expected to have younger male Gay – men who are emotionally and sexually attracted
lovers). to men.

• Native Americans: "Two-Spirit" people Bisexual - man or woman who are emotionally and
celebrated in "Berdache" ceremonies. sexually attracted to men or women.

Religious & Colonial Influence on LGBT Persecution Transgender – when your gender identity (how you
feel) is different from your physical sex (male/female).
• Abrahamic religions condemned same-
sex relationships as "sodomy" (a sin Queer – used by people who celebrate all gender
and crime against nature). identities, can also mean someone who do not want to
be restricted as Lesbian, Gay, or Bi.
Intersex – people who were born with sex genitals or This gender identity is not a phase—it is something
chromosome patterns that do not fit the typical male transgender individuals feel since childhood.
or female body.
In a heteronormative society, people are expected to
Asexual/Ally – asexual are people who do not feel conform strictly to male masculinity and female
sexual attraction to anyone, but it does not mean that femininity, which creates challenges for transgender
they do not engage in romantic or sexual relationships. individuals.
Allies are straight or heterosexual people who are
Transgender Identities in History & Culture
fighting for LGBT rights.
• Different cultures throughout history
Plus +- the plus sign refers to all sexualities that do not
have recognized and accepted gender
fit in the LGBTQI spectrum.
nonconformity.
- Knowledge on the human sexuality is still
• Among Native Americans, gender-
evolving so there many terms that pops up.
diverse individuals were honored as
Here are a few more to help us become more
"Two-Spirit" people and celebrated in
inclusive:
"Berdache" ceremonies.
Androgynous – people whose gender expression (their
• In the Philippines, precolonial priests
physical appearance) may or may not be distinctly male
known as "Babaylan" or "Catalonan"
or female.
were mostly women, but some were
Gender – your internal sense of being masculine or males who lived as women and played
feminine or neither. important spiritual roles.

Gender identity – how you feel, man, women, or Transgender as an Umbrella Term
neither.
• The term transgender includes many
Gender expression – how you express your sense of gender identities, such as transsexuals.
being male or female or neither, maybe through
• Transsexuals is a medical term used to
hairstyle, clothes, etc.
describe individuals who identify with
Sexual orientation – your emotional and sexual a gender different from their biological
attraction to a person. sex and may seek medical transition to
align their physical body with their
Sex assigned at birth – your given sex when were born
gender identity.
based on your sex organ.
• Some transgender individuals choose
Cisgender – when your gender identity matches with
to undergo hormone replacement
the sex you are assigned at birth.
therapy (HRT) or sex reassignment
Non-binary-people who do not feel like a boy or a girl; surgery (SRS) to feel more aligned with
they may feel like they are both or neither, so their gender identity.
sometimes they use the pronouns they, them, and
Medical and Social Challenges
theirs.
• Medical advancements have allowed
Definition of Transgender
transgender individuals to transition
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines and live a fulfilling life.
transgender as an umbrella term for individuals whose
• However, transitioning can be a long,
gender identity, expression, or behavior does not
difficult, and expensive process,
match the sex assigned at birth.
requiring significant emotional and
A transgender person may be born male but feel like a financial support.
female, or born female but feel like a male.
Other sexualities under the transgender umbrella Caring Masculinity proposes that men are able to
term includes: adopt what is viewed as traditionally feminine
characteristics.
FTM-female to male, a person whose biological sex is
female and has transitioned to living his life as a male; MEN’S RIGHT LOBBY

MTF-male to female, a person whose biological sex is One of the main founding texts of this lobby is by
male and has transitioned to living her life as a female; Warren Farrell, in his work, The Myth of Male Power:
Why are Men the Disposable Sex? (1994). According to
Crossdressing – some people want to dress as the
him: "Men are now the gender victims as a result of
opposite gender from time to time, however, unlike the
feminism having gone too far, with men having
transsexual, they are comfortable identifying with their
increased responsibilities but few rights around issues
biological sex;
of marriage, divorce, child custody and access to
Drag kings and queens – these are people who dress as children."
the opposite gender for entertainment which they do
Masculinity is a social, cultural, and historical construct
out of passion or for work; and
dependent on and related or other factors such as
Gender queer – these are people who feel like their class, ethnicity, sexuality, age, and disability.
gender does not fit the gender binary view that is Researches on men's studies and masculinity
limited to the male or female category because they established common themes which strengthened and
feel that these are too restrictive. developed this evolving concepts.

Transitioning is a complex process that can take years MULTIPLE MASCULINITY

and often requires psychological, medical, and social
The meaning of masculinity in working-class life is
support. A psychologist can help guide transgender
different from the meaning in middle-class life and
individuals, especially those considering sex
same goes among the very rich and the very poor. It is
reassignment surgery (SRS). In some countries,
even possible that more than one kind of masculinity
medical insurance covers transitioning costs, and
can be found within a given cultural setting and within
support from employers and families plays a crucial
a specific class. This only shows that masculinities
role.
cannot be delimited to a sole definition or description
Not all transgender people choose or can afford as various countries, culture, and levels in life view this
hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or SRS due to concept.
personal, economic, or cultural reasons, and that is
Hegemonic masculinity - refers to the dominant form
completely valid. Transitioning is challenging due to
of masculinity that is privileged and upheld by society.
social stigma, discrimination, medical costs, restrictive
It is characterized by characteristics such as strength,
laws, and threats of violence.
courage, aggression, and the ability to provide and
protect.

LESSON 12: MEN AND MASCULINITIES According to Kimmel (1997), hegemonic masculinity:
“contains within it the image of the ‘man’ in power, a
MASCULINITIES a social, cultural, and historical
man with power, and a man of power. We equate
construction of men dependent on and related to other
manhood with being strong, successful, capable,
factors such as class, ethnicity, sexuality, age, and
reliable in control. The very definitions of manhood we
disability.
have developed in our culture maintain the power that
Hegemonic Masculinity a form of masculinity which is some men have over other men and that men have
culturally dominant in a given setting. over women.

Protest Masculinity a form of masculinity which is "Hegemonic" signifies a position of cultural authority
culturally dominant in marginalized setting. and leadership, but not total dominance as other forms
of masculinity. Moreover, hegemonic masculinity was
understood as the pattern of practice that allowed PROTEST MASCULINITY
men's dominance over women to continue.
Protest masculinity is a gendered identity oriented
• Complicit Masculinity - men who received the toward a protest of the relations of production and the
benefits of patriarchy without enacting a strong version ideal type of hegemonic masculinity. To this point,
of masculine dominance. Hierarchy of masculinities is protest masculinity has been conceived as a
an expression of the unequal shares of the privileges destructive, chaotic, and alienating sort of masculinity.

COLLECTIVE MUSCULINITIES CARING MASCULINITY

This refers to the behavior of an individuals within an • This reject domination and embrace the values of
institution like schools, colleges or workplace. In day- care - both collective care and personal care.
to-day life, there are many examples of collective
• Men who approximate this form of masculinity are
masculinity that impact other individuals especially in
viewed as a form of "new man" (Edley and Wetherell,
the workplace. Some men form a group for harassing
1999; Smith, 2016; Singleton and Maher, 2004)
the female workers and that they think, proves their
masculinity. In this way, they turn the sometimes
playful flirtations into sexual harassment and make it
LESSON 13: MARIANISMO VS MACHISMO
difficult for the females to work
Marianismo is a cultural concept primarily found in
MASCULINITIES AND WELL-BEING
Latin American societies, rooted in the idealization of
Research confirms a strong association between rigid feminine virtues and roles. It is derived from the figure
norms about what it means to be a man and men's of the Virgin Mary, who embodies purity, self-sacrifice,
negative health practices and vulnerabilities. and maternal care. This ideal encourages women to
aspire to qualities such as:
• Substance abuse: Men are more likely to drink
excessively or use drugs when stressed. • Nurturing: Women are often seen as
caregivers, responsible for the
• Mental health issues: Men are less likely to seek help
emotional and physical well-being of
for depression or suicidal thoughts.
their families.
• Physical health problems: Men are more likely to die
• Purity: Maintaining moral integrity and
from alcohol and substance abuse-related illnesses.
chastity is highly valued, leading to
FAMILY FORMATION, FATHERING, CAREGIVING AND societal pressures on women to
DOMESTIC ROLES conform to these ideals.

Historically, men's roles in families have been largely • Self-Sacrifice: The expectation that
defined by their economic contributions, with a focus women should prioritize family needs
on providing financial security and less emphasis on over their own desires or ambitions,
emotional engagement or active parenting. This often reinforcing traditional gender roles.
resulted in a division of labor where mothers were seen
Machismo, on the other hand, refers to a cultural
as the primary caregivers, while fathers were expected
attitude that emphasizes male dominance, authority,
to be the providers and protectors.
and aggressive masculinity. This concept is prevalent in
MASCULINITIES AND ALCOHOL AND DRUG USE various cultures but is particularly associated with Latin
American societies. Key characteristics of machismo
Studies shows that men were more likely to drink than
include:
women, drank alcohol in greater quantity and more
frequently than women, and were more likely to face • Male Dominance: A belief in the
alcohol-related health and social problems than superiority of men over women,
women (Wilsack et al., 2000). Additionally, men may leading to power imbalances in
be less likely to seek help for mental health issues, personal and professional
turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress. relationships.
 • Authority: Men are expected to be the ⚬ As societal values evolve,
primary decision-makers and traditional concepts of
providers, reinforcing traditional Marianismo and Machismo
hierarchies within families and are being challenged.
communities. Discussions around toxic
masculinity and feminism aim
• Aggression and Strength: Traits such
to promote healthier
as physical strength, assertiveness, and
relationships and inclusivity.
emotional stoicism are celebrated,
often leading to toxic behaviors and CASE STUDIES
expectations.
1. MEXICO - Marianismo emphasizes women's
CULTURAL IMPLICATIONS roles as moral guardians, evident in traditions
like Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe. However,
A. IMPACT ON GENDER ROLES
Machismo often leads to male dominance and
1. Reinforcement of Traditional Roles: issues like domestic violence.
2. COLOMBIA - Women are idealized as
⚬ Marianismo and Machismo
caregivers, yet face pressure to prioritize
solidify traditional gender
family. Machismo manifests in workplace
roles, with women expected to
hierarchies, with men predominantly in
be homemakers and men as
leadership roles. Efforts are underway to
providers. This division limits
increase female representation.
opportunities and flexibility
3. BRAZIL - Both Marianismo and Machismo
for both genders.
influence social norms, with women managing
2. Limitations on Personal Identity: household duties. The feminist movement is
challenging these roles, while media often
⚬ Rigid definitions of masculinity glorifies aggressive masculinity, prompting
and femininity restrict discussions on healthier behaviors.
individual expression. Women
may feel pressured to A. Summary of Key Points
prioritize family over personal
• Marianismo and Machismo define
aspirations, while men may
traditional gender roles in Latin
struggle with the need to
America, with Marianismo idealizing
conform to aggressive,
femininity and domesticity, and
dominant ideals.
Machismo glorifying masculinity and
B. INTERSECTION WITH MODERN SOCIETY dominance.

1. Changing Perceptions: • These concepts limit personal identity

and reinforce hierarchical family
⚬ Contemporary society is dynamics, as shown in case studies
increasingly questioning from Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil.
traditional norms, with
movements advocating for B. The Ongoing Relevance of Marianismo and
gender equality. Younger Machismo
generations are redefining • Despite societal changes, Marianismo
roles, encouraging shared and Machismo continue to influence
responsibilities in parenting behaviors and expectations, posing
and careers. challenges to gender equality.
2. Challenges to Traditional Norms: Movements for gender equality are
 addressing these limitations but
traditional norms still persist.

C. Future Outlook on Gender Roles in Society

• The future is shifting toward more

equitable gender roles, with younger
generations questioning traditional
norms and advocating for shared
responsibilities. Continued awareness
and education are essential for
fostering inclusivity and redefining
gender roles.

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