This website will discuss different aspects of sexuality, paying particular attention to how sexuality is developed and influenced. Among the influential factors include society’s expectations that define what makes a man and woman who they are. Some expectations are placed on a child’s development and identity (i.e., boys playing with trucks, building blocks, swords; girls playing House, Barbies, or pretending to be fashion models). Further along development, society’s sexual expectations can affect an adolescent’s increasing awareness of his or her sexual identity, as he or she grows older. And although not the last thing affecting sexuality, the type and quality of relationships men and women are expected to involve themselves can also have some repercussions on the type of sexual expression a woman or man in a relationship chooses to display. In addition, this page will address the growing awareness of sexual diversity.Other areas of concern include the following:
Nature vs. Nurture Sexual Normalcy Challenging Traditions Why Challenge Tradition? Coming Out Homophobia
Homophobia in the ClassroomHate Crimes Discrimination
Authors of this page:
Lisa Madrinan
Christine Wakamiya
Kim Bradley
Kristie Nordblom
Amanda Swanger
Mike Colosurdo
Aaron Mallory
The views expressed here have been written by students taking Women Studies 001 at the Pennsylvania State University and are based on readings which have familiarized the students with these issues.
Last Modified: December 7, 1998