MODULE ON GECSEL: UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

PREFACE

The youth of today is thrust into a world of many options. They are engrossed

with so much technological advantage as well as disadvantages.

These many options have posed a challenge for the youth to make a stable

view of themselves. Otherwise, without a firm understanding, they may be deluded

and confused with these many influences they are confronted with.

Primary to the understanding of the Self in the 21st century is the firm

conviction of acceptance- that life has many things to offer; that the world has many

views to consider; that people are of different viewpoints and opinion; that the world

is changing., and that we could not just stick to the old norms of yesterday, but

accept that life nowadays for the youth is different from the kind of life that their

parents, uncles and aunties, and grandmothers and grandfathers had in the past.

Perhaps, if we insinuate to the youth this kind of flexibility and adaptability, they will

be more comfortable with the ever-changing presence of the times.

Welcome to this module in Understanding the Self. We, along with your other

teachers in GECSEL, are with you in this rough and beautiful journey of your

transition in life. Let us hold hands together in confronting your wonderful

metamorphosis to becoming a better version of you.

DYAN T. GAPULAN, PhD

Asst. Prof. IV

HAZEL GAY P. LAGRADA,

RGC
Instructor I
HOW TO USE THE MODULE

This module is designed for ease of use. Divided into 8 modules, each module

is composed a summary of the lessons and activities which aim to strengthen

understanding of the contents.

For each module, the objective is identified and set so that students would

have a background of the goals of the chapter. After each module objective, the

content of the chapter is presented.

Aside from the actual assessment, learning activities are presented so as to

give the student appropriate opportunity for synthesis and analysis of the chapter.

More than these, there are also enrichment activities so that the students may be

able to apply in a real-life scenario the theories and concepts presented. These

activities ensure that learning is facilitated more, and that the concepts learned do

not just become terminologies to be memorized by real concepts to live by.

Please do not forget to drop by the assessment part of each module and

submit these back to the teacher, for these will become your quizzes for the

semester.

We hope we become a facilitator of your understanding of yourself better this

semester.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Unpacking the Self

Module 1: The Physical Self

Module 2: The Sexual Self

Module 3: The Spiritual Self

Module 4: The Digital Self

II. The Self from Various Perspectives

Module 5: Philosophy: The Essentialist Perspective and Protean

Perspectives

Module 6: Sociological and Anthropological Perspectives

Module 7: Psychological Perspective

III. Managing and Caring for the Self

Module 8: Learning to be a Better Student, Setting Goals for Success and

Taking Charge of One’s Health

I. PRETEST (DIAGNOSTIC TEST)
Please answer this diagnostic test so that the Instructor may be able to assess your
basic understanding of the concepts covered here in this module. Write your
answers in the space provided.

________________ 1. It is the container of our body, the physical vessel through

which other people see us.
________________ 2. The stage of transition from childhood to adulthood.
________________ 3. The change in the adolescents which is manifested by the
changes in their physical body, the sudden increase in height and weight.
________________ 4. The Filipinos’ belief in some irrational practices, such as belief
in the presence of a nuno sa punso, or a practice during the wake of a family
member.
________________ 5. A social media platform which is very much popular among
the youth today, which has become the modern youth’s diary of his/her activities,
feelings and emotions.
________________ 6. According to this philosopher, the unexamined life is a life not
worth living.
________________ 7. They are the group of people from whom the tradition of
Philosophy began.
________________ 8. The study of the influences of social events to the behaviors
of men.
________________ 9. A kind of material culture which refer to garments worn and
distinguishable to a specific group of people.
________________ 10. The study of the behaviors of man.
________________ 11. A kind of behaviour which could be seen and observed.
________________ 12. A specific kind of behaviour which is not seen, therefore
could not be observed.
________________ 13. A kind of strategy and technique which students should
make use in managing and using their time well, specifically for the purpose of
achieving a a balanced life as a student.
________________ 14. An outside stimulation which places pressure on an
individual to perform at a specific level.
________________ 15. A kind of stress which is utilized to perform well, to become
creative and to become motivated.
 UNIT 1 – UNPACKING THE SELF

MODULE 1
THE PHYSICAL SELF

I. Introduction
The Unit 2 will deal with unpacking what we have and what we are capable
of. Just like a gift, we will unpack our own characteristics and see what is in them, most
importantly, understand what we are good at and what is best with us.
Be honest with the activities that we have, since from these activities, you
may understand what positive and negative characteristics that you have. These are bases
for self improvement.

II. Lesson Objectives:

By the end of the session, the students will be able to:

1. Explore the physical aspects of self.

2. Demonstrate critical, reflective thought in integrating the physical aspect to self and
identity.
3. Identify the different forces and institutions that impact the development of self and
identity.
4. Examine the effects of body image to self-esteem.
6. Appreciate one’s physical make – up and true essence of beauty.

III. Study guide

Supervenus (can be watch thru video) by Frederick Doazan

A short film submitted to the Brussels Short Film Festival by Frederic Doazan and Vandy
Roc starts the conversation about body type demands placed on women today. Beginning
with a medical diagram of a woman, the animated video shows a systematic reworking of
the female form that brings our sickest corporeal thoughts to life.

Without a clearly defined sense of self, individuals might seek out external sources to provide
coherence to their identity. One such external source is society’s standards of attractiveness
(i.e., thinness for women, muscularity for men).

In the study of Vartanian (2009), women’s self-concept can play a role in the development of
body image problems by making them vulnerable to or by buffering them against the
internalization of societal standards of attractiveness.
Women, but not men, who have low self-concept clarity are likely to be generally more
conformist, more concerned with public impressions, and more likely to base their self-worth on
their body weight, and all of these factors are in turn associated with internalization of societal
standards of attractiveness.

1. What are the physical changes brought into the woman by the standards of her society?
2. Where do all of these physical changes lead her?
3. Do you think there is a necessity that we yield into these social standards of our physical self?
Explain.

THE IMPACT OF CULTURE ON BODY IMAGE AND SELF-ESTEEM

Cultural Traditions Can Shape Body Image

The Western culture in general for example, is one that tends to hyper-focus on dieting and
body appearance. Digitally retouched photos are the norm in which are society is saturated in,
and this mentality can negatively influence an individual’s body image.

Body Image & Self Esteem

Body image has been defined as a view of one’s own overall physical appearance, and is
established as an important aspect of self-worth and mental health across the life span.

The internal representation of your own outer appearance; your own unique perception of your
body.

Body dissatisfaction, on the other hand, is a person’s negative thoughts about his or her feelings
and these feelings are largely determined by social experiences, such as media images.

Although body image is closely related to sexuality and identity, it can be said to be most closely
related to self-esteem.

Self-esteem is a feeling of satisfaction that someone has in himself or herself and his or her own
abilities.

It is the sum of self-confidence and self-respect.

The Media’s Portrayal of women

Media is the most widespread form of mass communication.

It has become a conveyor of socio-cultural values regarding ideal body shape and size, which
creates an understanding of the ideal man and woman.

Some of these types include newspapers, books and magazines, movies, radio, television and
the internet.

The Media’s Portrayal of women

More often than not, women are portrayed as the ‘thin ideal’ without imperfections.

Many theorists believe that certain images in the media have an impact on body image and in
turn, promote low self-esteem.

Idealized images in the media are recognized as an important external trigger of body
dissatisfaction.

Media influences and gender differences

o Females
The concept that the mass media can affect the body image and self esteem of girls and women
is not a new phenomenon and has been circling ever since celebrities, such a pop stars, have
become famous, not for their talents, but for their looks.

These ideals are unrealistic, and surveys show that more than half of women are dieting in
order to attain a perfect body image.

Objectification Theory - females are prone to internalize an observer’s perspective as a primary

view of their own physical bodies. This theory argues that girls and women subject their body to
constant monitoring, which in turn leads to body dissatisfaction and sometimes, even eating
disorders such as bulimia and anorexia.
o Males

The predominant focus of the research between negative self-images and media has been on
women but men can have just as low body image as women.

One study showed that muscularity dissatisfaction in turn was associated with lower life
satisfaction, and lower self-esteem (Cafri, Strauss & Thompson, 2002).

Metrosexuality: The New Urban Guy

Metrosexual - a young, urban, heterosexual male with liberal political views, an interest in
fashion, and a refined sense of taste
Metrosexual is a combination of metropolitan and sexual, coined in 1994 describing a man who
is especially meticulous about his grooming and appearance, typically spending a significant
amount of time and money on shopping as part of this.

19 Signs Your Man Is Most Definitely Metrosexual:

1. Ok, bragging time: As a well-groomed, well-mannered metro dude, your boyfriend

is pretty much an Adonis. 
2. Unfortunately, he knows that too.
3. And he does this in front of the mirror every morning. (in ppt)
4.And he dances out of the shower like this. (in ppt)
5.More than once, you've wondered what happened to all of your shaving cream.
6.But God help you if you use an ounce of his hair gel.
1. There was also that time he got a little crazy with the self-tanner.
2. And that other time he got more crazier with teeth whitener.
3. But at least he’s a meticulous dresser.
4. So much that he’s been mistaken for a Ralph Lauren model – something he is not afraid to
remind you – and all his Facebook friends about.
5. Occasionally, he judges your of your fashion choices.
6. His bros come over and breathe a mental sigh of relief, thinking “Great, he could use some
guy time.” But before they head out…(in ppt)
7. When the two of your hit the clubs, he can cut up the dance floor.
8. He knows how to throw a swanky soiree. (Just ask him about his wine collection.)
9. When you ask him to do chores in the apartment…this happens (in ppt)
10. While he looks great fixing your car, he has absolutely no idea what he is doing.
11. But he’s the first person to tell you when it’s not clean enough.
12. Still, for all that drives, you’re crazy about him.
13. ... you can't deny it: you love waking up next to that (freshly exfoliated) face in the morning.

Body image: pre-teens and teenagers

During adolescence, young people often think a lot about how their bodies look. They also
compare their bodies with others. A positive teenage body image is an important part of
healthy self-esteem, and adults can help adolescents to think and feel positively about his body.

Effects of unhealthy teenage body image

Unhealthy teenage body image is directly related to low self-esteem, which can lead to negative
moods and mood swings.

Young people who are feeling down are more likely to focus on the negative messages around
them and make negative comparisons between their bodies and what they see as ‘ideal’ bodies.
Effects of unhealthy teenage body image

Low self-esteem and poor body image are risk factors for the development of risky weight loss
strategies, eating disorders and mental health disorders like depression.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEAUTY

Physical beauty is extremely important and all studies have shown that people judge each other
based on their physical looks at least until they start to know each other well.

10 Reasons Why Physical Appearance Is So Important: Why One Needs to Look Good?

1. To impress people in social situations.

2. To look one’s best in work place, where one deals with the public.
For example, film stars have to look gorgeous and handsome.
3. One feels good if one looks good.
4. A physically attractive person attracts a lot of people.
5. It helps in building up relationships. A handsome boy attracts a lot of girls. Similarly, even
girls, who are beautiful, are much sought after.
6. Physical appearance does matter in a relationship. In a marriage, the partners need to take
care of themselves physically in order to sustain their relationship. Many women face marital
problems as they go out of shape after having children. Those women who take care of their
physical appearance have better rapport with their partner.
7. It boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. One feels very reassured when other people
admire them and prefer to associate with them as they find them very attractive. In certain
professions looks make a lot of difference. A model has to look his or best. A good looking
salesperson can get noticed quickly.
8. A pleasing face is nice to look at. People like to relax in the presence of beautiful things. A
pleasant face can relax the mind. Those with an aesthetic sense like to admire beautiful people
and things.
9. An attractive physical appearance enhances personality. It is an added advantage.
10. A physically attractive person, who is well-groomed, can impress upon people. A handsome
politician can draw the attention of the masses, although, of course, he also has to be man of
substance. For example, former president John F. Kennedy was known for his looks, although he
was an astute politician as well. Looks enhanced his public image.

10 Steps to Positive Body Image

1. Appreciate all that your body can do. Every day your body carries you closer to your dreams.
Celebrate all of the amazing things your body does for you—running, dancing, breathing,
laughing, dreaming, etc.
2. Keep a top-ten list of things you like about yourself—things that aren’t related to how much
you weigh or what you look like. Read your list often. Add to it as you become aware of more
things to like about yourself.
3. Remind yourself that “true beauty” is not simply skin deep. When you feel good about
yourself and who you are, you carry yourself with a sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and
openness that makes you beautiful regardless of whether you physically look like a supermodel.
Beauty is a state of mind, not a state of your body.
4. Look at yourself as a whole person. When you see yourself in a mirror or in your mind,
choose not to focus on specific body parts. See yourself as you want others to see you–as a
whole person.
5. Surround yourself with positive people. It is easier to feel good about yourself and your body
when you are around others who are supportive and who recognize the importance of liking
yourself just as you naturally are.
6. Shut down those voices in your head that tell you your body is not “right” or that you are a
“bad” person. You can overpower those negative thoughts with positive ones. The next time
you start to tear yourself down, build yourself back up with a few quick affirmations that work
for you.
7. Wear clothes that are comfortable and that make you feel good about your body. Work with
your body, not against it.
8. Become a critical viewer of social and media messages. Pay attention to images, slogans, or
attitudes that make you feel bad about yourself or your body. Protest these messages: write a
letter to the advertiser or talk back to the image or message
9. Do something nice for yourself--something that lets your body know you appreciate it. Take a
bubble bath, make time for a nap, find a peaceful place outside to relax.
10. Use the time and energy that you might have spent worrying about food, calories, and your
weight to do something to help others. Sometimes reaching out to other people can help you
feel better about yourself and can make a positive change in our world.

IV. Learning ACTIVITY: SHAPE ME USING CLAY

1. Instruct the students to bring a piece of clay for this activity.

2. Students are asked to create something that best described themselves (10 minutes)
3. Group sharing
Each student is given 2 minutes to share their clay work with their small group using
the following guide questions:
a. Explain your claywork in relation to yourself.
b. Share what is your best physical asset and why.
4.The teacher processes the activity based on the following concepts:
a. We are all made in the image and likeness of God.
b. Respect, Accept and Love one’s body

V. ASSESSMENT:
View the short film “Supervenus.” Answer the following questions:
1. If you would be given the chance, what aspect of your body would you like
to change? Why or why not?
2. Is happiness sourced only from the physical attributes? Why or why not?
3. In the film, what has been the effect of the character’s desire to perfect her
physical features? Do you think being physically perfect is ideal? Why or why
not?

VI. Enrichment Activity

Look for magazine/newspaper articles or even pictures which manifest the
desire of both males and females for physical perfection. Cut these out and
present to the class. How does this reflect the society’s preference for
physical beauty?

MODULE 2

THE SEXUAL SELF

(with Family Planning)
 I. Introduction

Human sexuality is the way people experience and express themselves sexually. This
involves biological, erotic, physical, emotional, social, or spiritual feelings. Understanding one`s
sexuality leads understanding sexual behavior, respect for others sexual orientation ,
prevention of diseases and instills sense of responsibility in terms of establishing family.

The big question:

What is your definition and understanding of sexual self? How do you use it in
evaluating your own sexual feelings and actions?

Learning Outcome

1. Fully comprehend the various dimensions that constitute your sexual self.
2. Explain the development requirements of secondary sex characteristics and the
human reproductive system;
3. Identify and discuss the erogenous zones and explain the human sexual response;
4. Explain the basic biology of sexual behavior and understand the chemistry of lust,
love and affection;
5. Discover and explain the psychological aspects of the sexual self and the diverse
sexual human behavior;
6. Be fully aware of the possible sexually transmitted diseases that you will contract
and develop expertise on how you can guard yourself against it.
7. Familiarize yourself with the various natural and artificial methods of contraception
and be adept in its application when the need arises.

II. Study Guide

Introduction:
Why study Human Sexuality?
Human Sexuality is the way in which we experience and express ourselves as sexual
beings.

There are many factors that help develop our sexuality, arguably one of the most
important, is our actual gender. Whether, you are male or female will likely have a major
influence on the development of my individual sexuality. Furthermore, sexuality is an integral
part of our personalities whether we are aware or not.

Dimensions of Human Sexuality

 1. Biological
2. Psychological
3. Sociocultural characteristics

Biological
"The greater your knowledge, the more likely you are to take responsibility for your
sexual health."

A lot of women experience radical biological changes during perimenopause that affect
sexual desire and even how their body reacts during sex.

Women have forever feared "The Change" but I'm all for embracing it! We MUST or the
cycle of fear and lack of knowledge about ourselves and our bodies just continues on to the
next generations. The future generations deserve better than that from us.
Hormones may be viewed as one of the major "driving forces" of sexual behaviour.
Hormones are produced by the gonads (i.e., testes and ovaries), the adrenal cortex, the
pituitary gland, and the hypothalamus. The hormones of androgens, estrogens, and progestins
all exist in both males and females. They exist in different concentrations, however, within
males and females. Males have a higher concentration of androgens and females have a higher
concentration of estrogens and progestins.

Incidentally, androgens are responsible for the sexual differentiation of the male
reproductive system before birth and the sexual maturation of boys at puberty. Testosterone, a
specific androgen, is associated with the male sexual drive and possibly with aggressive
behavior.

Estrogens and progestins, found in higher concentrations within females, regulate the
menstrual cycle and are essential for reproduction. The relationship of these hormones to the
female sexual drive and behavior are unclear. Hormone levels are usually correlated with
sexual behavior, but in humans this is not necessarily true because of intervening variables.
Thus, an individual may be physiologically ready to participate in sexual behavior, but does not
because of factors that supercede any biological reason.
The Development of Secondary Sex Characteristics
Primary sex characteristics (or body structures directly concerned with reproduction)
that allows us to tell males from females, such as the penis in men and the vagina in women
Secondary sex characteristics are features which appear at puberty (though they later
become equally as prominent). These secondary characteristics are features such as pubic hair,
breast development in females, and beards in males.
The list below shows some of these characteristic differences between human males
and females. In men, these include:
• More pronounced body hair characteristics (beard, chest, etc.) and usually more
coarse
• Heavier musculature
• Angular features (i.e. square jaw, triangular mid region)
 • Narrow hips
• Muscular pectorals (chest)
• Less fat tissue overall
• Deeper voice
In women, these include:
• Less pronounced body hair characteristics (mostly in pubic region, hair all over is
usually finer)
• Lighter musculature
• Rounded features (i.e. softer facial features, hourglass mid-region)
• Wider hips (for child bearing)
• More pronounced breasts with more fatty tissue
• More fat tissue overall
• Higher voice

BASIC BIOLOGY OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR

The biology of human sexuality includes the reproductive system and the sexual
response cycle, as well as the factors that affect them.

The biological aspects of human sexuality include the reproductive system, the sexual
response cycle, and the neurological and hormonal factors that affect these processes.

Females have both external genitalia Known as the vulva and internal reproductive
organs including the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and vagina

Males also have both internal and external genitalia the main sex organs are the penis
and testicles.

The sexual response cycle is a model that describes the physiological responses that
ta/e place during sexual activity. The cycle consists of four phases excitement, plateau, orgasm,
and resolution.

The hypothalamus is the most important part of the brain for sexual functioning it
produces important sexual hormones that are then secreted by the pituitary gland.

Sex hormones that influence sexual behavior include oxytocin, prolactin, vasopressin,
follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, others include testosterone in males and
estrogen and progesterone in females.

The limbic system is the part of the human brain involved in emotion, motivation, and
emotion and association with memory.

The libido is a person’s overall sexual drive or desire for sexual activity.
 A hormone is any substance produced by one tissue and conveyed by the bloodstream
to another to effect physiological activity. The biological aspects of human sexuality include the
reproductive system, the sexual response cycle, and the neurological and hormonal factors that
affect these processes.

The Science of Love, Lust and Attachment

Falling in love can hit you hard in mind and your body. You feel irresistibly attracted to
your crush. If things continue, you may feel a rush of euphoria, a longing to be together,
passion and excitement. You feel like you've found the most special, unique person in the
world. Fast forward a few years and the excitement goes down some (except for a few lucky
couples). The novelty wears off and, if all goes well, is replaced by a warm, comforting,
nurturing type of feeling. You feel bonded in body, mind, and spirit. You share your hopes and
dreams together and work hard together to make them come true. Each stage in this cycle can
actually be explained by your brain chemistry - the neurotransmitters that get you revved up
and the hormones that carry the feeling throughout your body.
According to anthropology professor Helen Fisher, there are three stages of falling in
love. In each stage, a different set of brain chemicals run the show. These stages are lust,
attraction, and love. I will discuss each one below.

Lust
When you’re in the stage of lust, you feel physically attracted and drawn to the object of
your affection. You want to seduce them or be seduced. There may be an element of mystery
or an intensity that makes things exciting. Imagine a hot one night stand! Lust is driven by the
hormones testosterone in men and estrogen in women. Lust occurs across species and may be
part of the basic drive to find a partner to spread our genes with. But lust is different than love.
Injecting men with testosterone makes them desire a potential lover more, but not necessarily
fall in love in any lasting way.
Attraction
In the second stage, you begin to obsess about your lover and crave his presence. Your
heart races and you don’t feel like sleeping or eating. You may even get sweaty palms. You feel
a surge of extra energy and excitement as you fantasize about the things you’ll do together.
These feelings are created by three chemicals: norepinephrine, dopamine,and serotonin.
Dopamine - Increased dopamine is associated with motivation, reward, and goal-
directed behavior, hence the drive to pursue your loved one or create them in fantasy if you
can’t be with them. Dopamine also creates a sense of novelty. Your loved one seems exciting,
special and unique to you and you want to tell the world about his special qualities.
Norepinephrine - Norepinephrine is responsible for the extra surge of energy and
racing heart that you feel, as well as the loss of appetite and desire for sleep. It puts your body
into a more alert state in which you are ready for action.
Serotonin - Scientists think serotonin probably decreases at this stage, but more studies
need to be done. Low levels of serotonin are found in obsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD) and
are thought to cause obsessive thinking. In one Italian study of 60 students, those who were
recently in love and those with OCD both had less serotonin transporter protein in their blood
than regular (not recently in love) students.
Attachment
Attachment involves wanting to make a more lasting commitment to your loved one.
This is the point at which you may move in together, get married, and/or have children. After
about 4 years in a relationship, dopamine decreases and attraction goes down. If things are
going well, it gets replaced by the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin, which create the desire
to bond, affiliate with, and nurture your partner. You want to cuddle and be close and share
your deepest secrets with her. You plan and dream together.
Oxytocin - Oxytocin is a hormone released during orgasm (and during childbirth and
breast-feeding). This may be the reason why sex is thought to bring couples closer together and
be the “glue” that binds the relationship. There is a dark side to oxytocin as well. It seems to
play a role in needy, clinging behaviors and jealousy.
Vasopressin - Scientists learned about the role of vasopressin in attachment by studying
the prairie vole, a small creature that forms monogamous bonds like humans do. When male
prairie voles were given a drug that suppresses vasopressin, they began neglecting their
partners and not fighting off other male voles who wanted to mate with her.

What Can We Do?

Understanding the science of lust, attraction, and attachment can help you develop
more realistic expectations of your relationships. Below are some tools to guide you through
the stages of love:
1. Don’t mistake lust for love - give a new relationship time before you start dreaming of
a future together.
2. Keep the dopamine flowing in a long-term relationship by having date nights, taking
lessons, or going on trips in which you do novel and exciting things together. Perhaps you go
hiking in Costa Rica, climb a rock climbing wall, or go and see a thrilling movie.
3. Keep the oxytocin flowing with sex and intimacy. Write cards and over notes, hug and
kiss, think of your partner when she's not around, share your hopes and dreams, and support
those of your partner.
4. If you’re the jealous, controlling type, start developing your own activities and
friendships that make you feel important and cared about.
Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D. is a practicing psychologist in Mill Valley, California, and and
former Professor of Psychology at the California School of Professional Psychology. She is an
expert on relationships, stress, and mindfulness. She provides workshops, speaking
engagements and psychotherapy for individuals and couples. She regularly appears on radio
shows, and as an expert in national media. She also does long-distance coachingvia the
internet. She is the author of The Stress-Proof Brain (February, 2017 from New Harbinger).
Psychological

"Sexual behavior "is all between the ears."" - Dr. Ruth Westheimer.
 Sociocultural
"All societies have faced the problem of reconciling the need of controlling sex with that
of giving it adequate expression, and all have solved it by some combination of cultural taboos,
permissions, and injunctions. Prohibitory regulations curb the socially more disruptive forms of
sexual competition. Permissive regulations allow at least the minimum impulse gratification
required for individual well-being. Very commonly, moreover, sex behavior is specifically
enjoined by obligatory regulations where it appears directly to subserve the interests of
society." - American anthropologist George Murdock

The diversity of sexual behavior: solitary, heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, and

transsexual, etc.
Solitary Sexual Behavior- Self-masturbation is self-stimulation with the intention of
causing sexual arousal and, generally, orgasm (sexual climax). ... Females also tend to reduce or
discontinue masturbation when they develop socio sexual relationships.

Triggers to solitary sexual behavior-

The relationship between boredom proneness and some solitary sexual activities among
adults such as masturbating and viewing pornographic films was examined. The results of
multiple regression analysis showed that sexual dissatisfaction and boredom proneness were
significant predictors of people’s engaging in such activities, and the analysis of variance
revealed that highly boredom-prone individuals were more likely to engage in such solitary
sexual practices than were lower boredom-prone individuals.

Heterosexual, Homosexual, Bisexual, Gender Dysphoric

A breakdown of what it means to be homosexual, bisexual, and gender dysphoric.
Basic Definitions

Even in today’s relatively forward-thinking society, with all of the informational and
educational advantages provided by the Internet and related digital technologies, many people
have a limited understanding of what it means to be homosexual, bisexual, and
genderdysphoric.
 Part of the issue stems from the fact that despite numerous recent legal and social
advances we still live in a heteronormative society, where people who are biologically male
marry people who are biologically female, and together they have babies who are raised to do
the same. This is just the way it is, you know. And when that is the primary socio-sexual
message received from family, friends, and society at large, it can be difficult for people who
are “sexually different” to accept and integrate their nontraditional reality.

To be a heterosexual man or woman means having a personally significant and

meaningful romantic and/or sexual attraction primarily to adults of the opposite sex.

To be a homosexual man or woman means having a personally significant and

meaningful romantic and/or sexual attraction primarily to adults of the same sex. (To be an
openly gay man or woman implies a personal social integration with one’s homosexuality,
including being “out” by fully accepting one’s homosexuality and sharing about it with friends,
family, and others.)

To be a bisexual man or woman means having a personally significant and meaningful

romantic and/or sexual attraction to both adult males and females. Those who self-identify as
bisexual need not be equally attracted to both sexes.

Transgender

An umbrella term for people whose gender identity and/or expression is different from
cultural expectations based on the sex they were assigned at birth. Being transgender does not
imply any specific sexual orientation. Therefore, transgender people may identify as straight,
gay, lesbian, bisexual, etc.

To be gender dysphoric means experiencing a longstanding level of discontent with

one’s birth sex and/or the gender roles associated with that sex. There are varying degrees of
gender dysphoria, discussed in greater detail below.

For the most part, sexual orientation and gender identity are unrelated. Yes, people
with gender identity issues will typically self-identify as heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual,
just as people who are perfectly comfortable with their birth sex tend to self-identify their
sexual orientation, but gender identity does not in any way influence who or what one finds
romantically and sexually desirable. Nor does being heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual
necessarily correlate to having (or not having) a gender identity issue.
More on Sexual Orientation
Human sexual orientation (who/what we are attracted to) is believed to exist on a
continuum, this idea originated in the mid-twentieth century based on extensive research by
Alfred Kinsey. His research and theories have since been expanded and expounded upon by
numerous other sexologists, most notably Fritz Klein. Today, Kinsey’s continuum theory is
almost universally accepted. According to an official statement (link is external) by the
American Psychological Association:
 Sexual orientation is an enduring emotional, romantic, sexual, or affectionate attraction
toward others. It is easily distinguished from other components of sexuality including biological
sex, gender identity (the psychological sense of being male or female), and the social gender
role (adherence to cultural norms for feminine and masculine behavior). Sexual orientation lies
along a continuum that ranges from exclusive heterosexuality to exclusive homosexuality and
includes various forms of bisexuality. Bisexual persons can experience sexual, emotional, and
affectional attraction to both their own sex and the opposite sex. Sexual orientation is different
from sexual behavior because it refers to feelings and self-concept (rather than sexual activity).
Individuals may or may not express their sexual orientation in their behaviors.

A lot of folks out there find the terms heterosexual, homosexual, and bisexual
somewhat limiting, and sometimes even degrading. This, of course, doesn’t stop the universal
attempt to label. In fact, a wide variety of terminology is used by a wide array of people—and
sometimes these terms have definitions that are flexible to the point of confusion, which may
be the point. Terms include pansexual, polysexual, heteroflexible, homoflexible, queer, sexually
open-minded, MSM (men who have sex with men), and WSW (women who have sex with
women.

Proposed explanations for various sexual orientations include both nature and nurture.
As a gay man who strongly believes he was “born this way,” genetics and the in-utero
experience as primary influences. Nevertheless, it is clear that at least some sexual behaviors
(and perhaps some sexual orientations) are driven by other factors, such as early trauma, sexual
abuse, situational sexuality, cultural pressure, sexual addiction (link is external), sex for pay, and
just plain experimentation, to name just a few.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

STDs, also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are typically caused by
bacteria or viruses and are passed from person to person during sexual contact with the penis,
vagina, anus, or mouth. The symptoms of STDs/STIs vary between individuals, depending on the
cause, and many people may not experience symptoms at all.
Many STDs/STIs have significant health consequences. For instance, certain STIs can also
increase the risk of getting and transmitting HIV/AIDS and alter the way the disease progresses.
STIs can also cause long-term health problems, particularly in women and infants. Some of the
health problems that arise from STIs include pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, tubal or
ectopic pregnancy, cervical cancer, and perinatal or congenital infections in infants.
Sexually Transmitted Infections At A Glance
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be spread (transmitted) by intercourse, kissing,
oral-genital contact, and sharing sexual devices.
Aside from abstinence, the use of latex barriers, such as condoms, during intercourse
and oral-genital contact (although not 100% effective) is the best means of preventing the
spread of STDs.
  Genital or oral ulcers are most often caused by herpes simplex,
chancroid, syphilis, and lymphogranuloma venereum.
• Syphilis infection can either produce no symptoms or can cause oral or genital
ulcers, rash, fever, or a variety of neurological illnesses ranging from forgetfulness to strokes.
• Chlamydia and gonorrhea can be transmitted alone or together and cause
inflammation of the urethra (urethritis), which the patient experiences as burning on urination
and a penile discharge (dripping).
• The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes the acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), is spread by infected blood or sexual secretions and is
often associated with one or more of the other STDs.
• Human papilloma virus (HPV) causes genital warts and is associated with the
development of anogenital carcinomas such as cervical carcinoma in women and anal or penile
cancers in men.
Human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) is a recently identified virus that may be transmitted
sexually and has been associated with Kaposi's sarcoma (an unusual skin tumor), and possibly
certain lymphomas (tumors of the lymph tissue).
What is scabies?
• Scabies is an ectoparasitic infection caused by a small bug that is not visible with
the naked eye, but can be seen with a magnifying glass or microscope.
• The bug is a mite known as Sarcoptes scabiei. The parasites live on the skin and
cause itching over the hands, arms, trunk, legs, and buttocks.
• The itching usually starts several weeks after exposure and is often associated
with small bumps over the area of itching. The itching of scabies is usually worse at night.
What are pubic lice (pediculosis pubis)?
• Pubic lice, also called nits, are small bugs that actually are visible to the naked
eye.
• That is, they can be seen without the aid of a magnifying glass or microscope.
• The scientific term for the responsible organism, the crab louse, is Phthirus
pubis.
• These parasites live within pubic or other hair and are associated with itching.
Signs of STD
• Burning or pain during urination
• Sores
• Bumps

How are STD’S Spread?

Sexual Contact
A person does not have to have sex to get an STD/STI from an infected person.
People under the influence of drugs and alcohol are more likely to engage in sexual
activity.
WHY??????
Sharing Needles
Anal Warts
 Hepatitis B is transmitted primarily through sexual contact while Hepatitis C is
transmitted more commonly by contact with infected blood.
• The liver is one of the body's powerhouses. It helps process nutrients and
metabolizes medication. The liver also helps clear the body of toxic waste products.
• The word hepatitis means an inflammation of the liver, and it can be caused by
one of many things - including a bacterial infection, liver injury caused by a toxin (poison), and
even an attack on the liver by the body's own immune system.
• Hepatitis C is transmitted from person to person through blood or other body
fluids.
• Hepatitis C is the most serious type of hepatitis - it's now one of the most
common reasons for liver transplants in adults.
Every year, thousands of people in the United States die from the virus. And there's no
cure and no vaccine
Hepatitis
• Symptoms of hepatitis include:
– yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice
– fever
– nausea, vomiting, and lack of appetite
– abdominal pain (on the upper right side)
– light-colored bowel movements
– dark-colored urine
Aids
AIDS, or acquired immune deficiency syndrome, is a deadly disease that is caused by
HIV. AIDS slowly destroys the person’s ability to fight disease.
How Can HIV Be Spread?
HIV can be spread in the following ways:
1. Sexual contact
2. Mother to unborn child
3. Drug use
4. Blood and blood products

Preventing HIV and AIDS

What Is Abstinence?
– Abstinence is refusing to take part in any activity or behavior that puts your
health and the health of other people at risk.
--The only method that is 100% in stopping pregnancy and an STD or STI.
Avoid Unsafe Choices
• Know your personal limits ahead of time
• Watch for signs or situations that might challenge your limits
• Have a plan to help you stick with your limits.

FAMILY PLANNING
 Categories of Family Planning Methods
1. Natural Family Planning Methods
2. Artificial Contraceptive Device
Concept of Family Planning
 Family planning is a couple's desire to plan and control how many children they
have and when they have them.
 Planning for children, or the prevention of a pregnancy, can include natural,
biological methods as well as synthetic or permanent solutions.

Natural Family Planning

 Family planning deemed "natural" is a method of knowing your body so that you
may increase the possibility of conception or prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
 Natural family planning works by limiting sexual intercourse during the time a
woman is ovulating, lowering the chance of fertilization.
 In order for this type of planning to work, a woman needs to be aware of her
ovulation cycle.

How DOES Natural Family Planning Methods work?

 Natural family planning is a method identified by its lack of external birth control
methods.
 Couples who practice natural family planning do not use condoms, sponges, pills,
IUDs or sterilization to prevent pregnancy.
 Instead, a couple using natural family planning relies on the correct
interpretation of the woman's fertility signs to time intercourse.
 The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that another
name for natural family planning is fertility awareness.
 Knowing your Menstrual Cycle will help in determining your fertile period.

Calendar or Rhythm Method

- involves the determination of the fertile period of a woman.

- involves abstinence from sexual intercourse during the fertile period.
When does fertilization occur?
Some Facts to consider in the use of Calendar Method.
Ovulation takes place 14 + or minus 2 days before the next menstruation occurs.
The life span of the sperm cell lasts for 72 to 96 hours once emitted inside the body of
the woman.
The life span of the egg cell lasts for 24 to 48 hours after ovulation

What Are the Disadvantages of Natural Family Planning?

 The term "natural family planning" typically refers to particular techniques of
avoiding pregnancy. Some forms of this kind of birth control are known as fertility awareness--
based methods. Another form is the lactational amenorrhea method.
  The Catholic Church promotes the use of natural family planning for Catholic
couples in place of alternative contraception.
 Other couples might choose natural family planning because it is inexpensive,
reversible and requires no medication.
 Although many couples use it successfully, natural family planning does have
drawbacks.
Diligence
 In fertility awareness--based forms of natural family planning, you rely on your
own observations of your body's changes throughout each monthly cycle to determine when
you are fertile.
 You must be diligent in tracking these changes and keep careful records.
 You must check your basal temperature every morning or regularly monitor the
consistency of your cervical mucus.
 A spike in temperature or certain changes in the characteristics of the mucus
indicate ovulation. Many women use both of these methods to determine ovulation.
 Some women use the calendar, or rhythm, method. With this method, you must
keep a daily record of your menstrual cycle to calculate your most fertile period.
Side Effects of Natural Family Planning Method
 Natural family planning involves natural methods for couples to gauge the best
times for sexual intercourse, whether they want to have a child or are trying to avoid
pregnancy.
 The effectiveness of these methods depends on your ability to recognize body
changes during ovulation, when an egg is released from an ovary during a woman's menstrual
cycle.
Ovulation marks the most likely time for you to become pregnant, and the signs that
accompany it can be subtle, requiring training and diligence in charting.
These methods have no physical side effects, but some issues must be considered if
you choose them for birth control.
Hormonal Methods
Pills
Injectables
Implants
Vaginal ring, etc

Barrier Methods
a. Condom
b. Diaphragm
c. IUD – Intra Uterine Device

Sterilization Methods
a. Vasectomy
b. Tubal Ligation
  Birth control techniques other than natural family planning/fertility awareness
methods, or NFP/FAM, are sometimes called "artificial."
 These include hormonal contraceptives like the pill, intrauterine devices or IUDs;
barrier methods like diaphragms and condoms; and male and female surgical sterilization.
 Only 3 percent to 6 percent of reproductive-age couples on Earth use any form
of periodic abstinence from sex, and apparently in most cases not modern, scientifically based,
effective NFP/FAM.
 Although NFP/FAM has its benefits, most of family planning's worldwide positive
effects are clearly due to the so-called artificial methods.
Promotion of Human Right
 "Artificial" methods expand people's family planning options greatly and thus
empower them to exercise a basic human right.
 Starting with the 1968 United Nations International Conference on Human Rights
in Tehran, voluntary family planning has been recognized and reaffirmed as a universal human
right.
 It includes the freedom to use or not to use a particular method.
 Most people prefer "artificial" methods. For example, a woman might want to
use a female condom or diaphragm because she feels it gives her personally the most control
over whether or not she becomes pregnant.
 Couples who have completed their families might choose tubal ligation or
vasectomy so they do not have to worry about pregnancy prevention again.

In addition, some women have medical issues that might conflict with NFP/FAM use.
 For example, they might need to take certain psychiatric, antibiotic, or anti-
inflammatory drugs that throw off the timing of ovulation, alter cervical secretions, or affect
body temperatures.
 Artificial contraception methods work in different ways to decrease the
likelihood that sexual intercourse will result in pregnancy.
 Barrier methods such as condoms (male or female), diaphragms (with or without
spermicide) and sponges (with spermicide) have as their first line of defense the physical
blocking of the sperm's entry into the uterus.
 If sperm cannot get into the uterus it cannot fertilize an egg, and pregnancy
cannot occur.
 An IUD works in a different way, by making the uterus toxic to sperm and by
disturbing the lining of the uterus so that it won't allow egg implantation.
 The hormones in oral contraceptives and hormone implants fool the ovaries into
refraining from ovulation, and without a fertile egg, pregnancy will not occur.
 IUDs and oral contraceptives and hormones may be used as emergency
contraception in the case of unprotected sex, but neither one will protect against sexually-
transmitted disease.
Barrier Methods
 Barrier methods of birth control work by blocking the cervix, or the opening of
the uterus.
  Condoms are a commonly used barrier method that should always be used with
a new partner to prevent both pregnancy and transmission of diseases such as HIV---the virus
that causes AIDS.
Sponge
 The contraceptive sponge is a type of update on the diaphragm.
 It essentially works the same way.
 It is placed inside the vagina to block sperm from entering the cervix.
 It has a soft strap to help remove it.
 Unlike the diaphragm, however, the sponge already has spermicide in it that is
released for 24 hours.
 Depending on how regularly she uses the sponge and whether she has given
birth, the sponge has an effectiveness rate of 68 percent or more for women who've had
children and up to 91 percent for other women.

 Like the diaphragm, the cervical cap requires the use of a spermicide to kill
sperm as they enter the vagina and provide maximum effectiveness against pregnancy.
 The diaphragm is a shallow latex cup inserted into the vagina that can be taken
out after sex, washed and reused.
 Gynecologists recommend lining a diaphragm with spermicidal jelly for added
effectiveness.
 Diaphragms are made of latex rubber, so women with a latex allergy may prefer
to use a silicone cervical cap
 The vaginal ring is a flexible ring about 2 inches in diameter that is inserted into
the vagina.
 It releases progestin and estrogen into the body to avoid pregnancy.
The woman inserts it herself and it stays in the vagina for 3 weeks.
 Then, she takes it out for one week to have her period.
 Like other hormone methods, a prescription from a doctor is required.
Condoms- Condoms are perhaps the most commonly used barrier method of birth
control; some couples prefer them because they allow the male partner to take responsibility
for contraception.
What happens to sperm after a vasectomy?
A vasectomy creates a blockage or “dead end” in the scrotal portion of the vas. The
sperm get to the point of blockage and can go no further. They age and then die. The sperm
degenerate and the body breaks the sperm down into component protein molecules as it does
for dead cells elsewhere in the body. These protein molecules are then reabsorbed in the
bloodstream and are eliminated.
Does vasectomy work immediately?
 No, any vasectomy does not make you sterile right away, and you'll want to
continue using some other means to guard against pregnancy until your doctor tells you
otherwise. Immediately after a vasectomy, active sperm remain in the semen for a period of
time. It may take 15 to 20 ejaculations and several weeks before your semen is free of sperm.
Your doctor will test the seme, perhaps several times over several weeks, and let you know
when you can safely consider the vasectomy to be complete. This may be as long as two
months.
Will my sex life be affected?
 A vasectomy only blocks sperm and does not affect your sexual drive, your ability
to have an erection, orgasm or ejaculation or your ability to have and enjoy sex. Sperm is only a
small fraction of the total liquid in your semen. The amount of fluid, intensity - even color and
texture - does not appear to change when sperm is absent. Male hormones continue in the
bloodstream, and secondary characteristics (such as beard or voice) do not change. Some
couples say their relationship is improved by not having to worry about contraceptive
techniques or unplanned pregnancy.
Tubal Ligation
Are there risks or complications?
 Vasectomy ranks among the safest procedures and the majority of
complications, if any, are usually minor and easily treated.

 Most women recover with no problems. There are no tests required to verify
sterility.
 Most women are advised to avoid strenuous exercise for several days.
 Oral pain medications can usually manage the pain. Most women are able to
return to work within a few days.
 Sexual intercourse can be resumed as soon as the patient feels ready (usually
within a week).
Can you get pregnant again ten years after a tubal ligation?
 Getting Pregnant After 10 Years is unlikely.
What are the possible complications after TL?
 There aren’t many long term complications after tubal ligation but experiencing
heavier periods is possible.
 While major complications are uncommon after tubal ligation, there are risks
with any surgical procedure. Possible side effects include infection and bleeding. After
laparoscopy, the patient may experience pain in the shoulder area from the carbon dioxide
used during surgery, but the technique is associated with less pain than mini-laparotomy, as
well as a faster recovery period.
 Mini-laparotomy results in a higher incidence of pain, bleeding, bladder injury,
and infection compared with laparoscopy. Patients normally feel better after three to four days
of rest, and are able to resume sexual activity at that time.
 The possibility for treatment failure is very low—fewer than one in 200 women
(0.4%) will become pregnant during the first year after sterilization. Failure can happen if the
cut ends of the tubes grow back together; if the tube was not completely cut or blocked off; if a
plastic clip or rubber band has loosened or come off; or if the woman was already pregnant at
the time of surgery.
Hormonal Contraceptives
  Hormonal contraceptives work by preventing you from ovulating, or releasing
eggs from your ovaries each month, and by thinning the lining of the uterus to keep a
pregnancy from implanting.
 Without an egg to be fertilized by sperm, pregnancy cannot occur. Most
hormonal birth control methods contain the hormones estrogen and progestin, although some
contain progestin only.
 The most commonly used hormonal contraceptive is the birth control pill, with
those containing only progestin sometimes called "mini-pills."
 Other methods of estrogen and progestin delivery are Depo-Provera, the birth
control injection given every three months; the vaginal ring, a flexible ring inserted into the
vagina every month and left for three weeks; and the birth control patch, which sticks to your
skin and releases hormones transdermally.
 Some women prefer the ring, patch or shot because they don't have to
remember to take a pill every day, while some prefer the pill because it can be discontinued if
side effects occur.
 Side effects of hormonal contraceptives include significant mood swings and
decreased libido.
 Counseling about correct pill-taking is particularly important for young adults.
 The contraceptive effect of the pill wears off quickly once it is discontinued.
 This can be a problem for young women who may stop taking the pill when they
break up with boyfriends, since they may resume the relationship or begin another and have
intercourse before resuming pill use.
 Also, some youth may be less consistent pill users than older adults.
 Providers should encourage young women to link pill-taking to some daily
routine to ensure correct use.
 The internal female reproductive organs include the uterus, ovaries, cervix and
vagina.
 These organs are necessary to produce a successful pregnancy.
 To prevent pregnancy, birth control pills affect how these organs normally
function.

 Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Lutenizing Hormone (LH) stimulate the
ovary into producing a ripe egg ready for fertilization by sperm during a normal ovulation cycle.

During a normal menstrual cycle, hormones stimulate the ovary causing an egg to ripen.
The uterine lining thickens preparing itself for implantation of a fertilized egg and the
cervical mucus thins to help sperm reach the egg.
 The estrogen in the body cause the pituitary gland to release LH stimulating the
ovary to produce a ripe egg.
 The lower levels of estrogen in birth control pills supress FSH and LH "fooling"
the pituitary gland into thinking a woman is pregnant.
 Ovulation will then not occur which prevents pregnancy.
  The progesterone in birth control pills creates a thick cervical mucus making it
difficult for sperm to reach the uterus.
 It also impedes an egg from attaching itself to the uterine lining (endometrium)
because of changes in the cellular structure of the lining.
Advantages of hormonal pills
very effective at preventing pregnancy when used consistently and correctly.
provide non-contraceptive health benefits such as
-regular menses
-protection against ectopic pregnancy,
-ovarian
-endometrial cancer
-pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
IUD- Intra Uterine Device
 The intrauterine device shown uses copper as the active contraceptive, others
use progesterone in a plastic device.
 IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy (less than 2% chance per year for
the progesterone IUD, less than 1% chance per year for the copper IUD).
 IUDs come with increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and perforation of the
uterus and do not protect against sexually transmitted disease.
 IUDs are prescribed and placed by health care providers.
How does IUD work?
 An IUD is a T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by your gynecologist.
 IUDs affect the movement of sperm, preventing them from joining with an egg.
 They also alter the lining of the uterus, which may prevent a fertilized egg from
implanting.
 Some IUDS release progestin, which prevents ovulation in the same way as the
birth control pill.
 An IUD also thickens the cervical mucus, helping to block sperm from entering
the uterus.
 Having an IUD in place allows for greater spontaneity of sex, making it a good
choice for those in a long-term, monogamous relationship.
 It also reduces the frequency and duration of your periods and can be used
during breast feeding.
What are its benefits?
 safe,
 have no systemic effects,
 relatively effective for preventing pregnancy
 protection from STDs when used consistently and correctly
Injectables and Implants
 Injectables are popular among many youth because they require only a periodic
visit to a clinic or pharmacy. No supplies need to be kept at home, and a partner would not
know a woman was using it. However, the difficulty of visiting the clinic or pharmacy may be a
problem for young adults who want to use this method.
What are its benefits?
  excellent protection against pregnancy but do not protect against STDs
 safe for young people and,
 have long-term,
 non-contraceptive benefits, including
-decreased risk of PID,
-ectopic pregnancy
-ovarian
-endometrial cancers.
Unlike pills, however, injectables and implants do not require a woman to take
daily action, which make them easier to use for most young people.
Abstinence
 Abstinence is the most certain way to prevent pregnancy and the transmission of
STDs.
 Abstinence requires commitment, high motivation and self-control, making it
difficult for many young adults to achieve.
 Counseling should focus on gaining skills to cope with peer and partner pressure.
 Sex is just one of many ways of expressing love and affection.
 Sexual abstinence requires no supplies or clinic visits. And complete abstinence is
the most effective means of protecting against both pregnancy and STIs.
 In practice, however, abstaining from sex tends to be less effective than many
contraceptive methods because complete abstinence requires strong motivation, self-control,
and commitment.
 Evidence from many countries suggests that comprehensive sexual health
programs that encourage abstinence while providing medically accurate information about
contraception and condom use can reduce sexual activity among young people.
 Such programs can also increase condom and other contraceptive use among
sexually active youth.
The most important foundation of society to keep safe and healthy, physically, morally
and spiritually, is the family.
If the family is suffering physical, mental and spiritual degradation, society is placed in
grave peril, as has repeatedly been the case in past civilizations…
Remember that……

III. LEARNING ACTIVITY

Answer the following:
MRS. CRUZ’S MENSTRUAL CYCLE FOR THE CURRENT MONTH IS 33 DAYS, HER
MENSTRUAL PERIOD STARTS January 2018
Requirement:
1. DETERMINE THE COMPLETE CYCLE BY MAKING A CALENDAR SHOWING THE START
AND THE END OF THE CYCLE
2. DETERMINE THE FERTILE PERIOD BY APPLYING THE OVULATION FORMULA
3. DETERMINE THE PERIOD OF ABSTINENCE USING THE LIFE SPANS OF THE SPERM AND
EGG CELL AS CONSIDERATIONS
4 LAST DAY OF MENSTRUAL PERIOD IF MP IS GOOD FOR 4 DAYS ONLY
5. LAST DAY OF THE CYCLE
6. FIRST DAY OF NEXT MP AND MC

IV. ASSESSMENT

Give 3 Benefits of Family Planning

1.
2.
How do we prevent STD/HIV
1.
2.
Hormones that affect sexual behavior
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Define the following:
1. homosexual
2. Bisexual
3. Heterosexual
4. transgender
 MODULE 3
THE DIGITAL SELF

I. Introduction
As man`s pursuits for perfection, acceptance and satisfaction in life continues to
develop, social media has been the most widely used platform in achieving man`s
ideal self .It cannot be denied that technology and internet shapes an individual`s
social self as it provides various ways in presenting one` self- the way they want to be.
Understanding this behavior, one will be able to draw a line between what is
beneficial and what is towards distraction .

The Big question:

Why do we express ourselves on Social Media like we do?

Learning Outcome:

1. Identify themselves with their cyber ID;

2. Determine their self-presentation and self-impression in the cyber world;

3. Analyze the impact of online interactions in their self;

4. Classify themselves in line with the boundaries online: Private versus Public,
Personal/Individual versus Social Identity, and Gender and Sexuality.

II. Study Guide

The Development of the Digital Self

The idea of the digital self developed from the original phenomenon of the ‘extended self’,
pioneered by Russell Belk in 1988. He believed our possessions are a major
contributor to and reflection of our identities. Back in the day, it was external objects,
such as clothes, jewellery and cars etc. that he believed we used and considered as
part of ourselves. Think about it, could you live without your smartphone or laptop?
(Be honest…)

Nowadays however, it isn’t merely tangible belongings that researchers consider as part of our
extended self. Our digital possessions such as photos, videos, statuses, texts, and
emails are now seen to be significantly important to shaping our digital self.
Why do we have a Digital Self?

The idea of the Digital Self is an interesting and relatively new topic discussed in consumer
behaviour research. Researchers, such as Stone (1996) and Hemetsburger (2005)
claim that the digital web allows us to try out different personas that differ from our
real life identities. But why would we want to even do this? We were especially
interested in looking at why we express ourselves online the way we do and we
wanted to share the most common reasons:

- We want to meet the expectation of others: research shows over 50% of women would edit
their social media photos to look better and meet the expectations that the media
and magazines have set

- We want to boost our self-esteem: people upload photos and statuses online that they feel
will receive ‘likes’ and positive feedback in which ultimately helps their egos

- To feel a sense of belonging: Some of us want to fit in with the crowd and upload things that
are ‘down with the trend’ - for instance, who notices the amount of people posting
pictures of their food increasing? It didn’t come from nowhere.

- Bigger sense of freedom: Unlike real life, digital platforms allow us to express ourselves in any
way we want to without anyone there to physically judge us

- Striving to be our ideal selves: Digital Apps, such as Facetune, that allow us to improve our
appearances on photos (through teeth whitening, skin smoothing and body shape
editing) helps consumers to express as their ‘ideal’ self-online and inevitably feel
better about themselves

In conclusion, the digital world has provided us with greater opportunities to express our
identity in any form we want to. But what we all need to remember is: how will we
feel if we go so far to express ourselves differently online that we forget what reality
is, or worse, we end up resenting it?

IDENTITY AND DIGITAL CULTURE(A power-point Presentation)

Identity has no definition; the ways we form our identities are unique, therefore so are each one
of us.

A person’s identity is defined by several concepts which today are highly influenced by digital
culture.
Digital culture allows us to develop interpersonal identities through mediums such as online
social networking sites. These identities can be broken down into three elements:

1. Identification: where we create an association for ourselves into different social

groups.

2. Categorization: where we label ourselves and others into distinct identifiable

categories.

Ex. On Facebook…allows us to display to the public where we stand in our own private social
spheres.

3. Comparison: where we compare ourselves and groups with other people and groups.

Social influences such as peer pressure or socialization also play a major role in the
development of an individual’s self perception and identity.

Online activities allow a user to create multiple identities with which they can express parts of
themselves, or even create idealized identities, that they cannot show or experience
in the real world.

Ex. Sara and Jessica in the Frontline report; where Sara is able to bond with others over the
common goal of thinness in her battle with anorexia, whereas Jessica creates an ideal
image of Autumn Edows which transforms her from her current social reject position
to a Goth model and artist.

Fun Fact:

A new mental ailment has been discovered called the “Truman Syndrome”. Due to the constant
exposure to media and surveillance, people have developed this paranoia where they
think that their lives are secretly being portrayed on a reality TV show.

Due to the digitalization of society, it has become increasingly difficult to separate reality from
the digital world. As a result, these ways of thinking have become ingrained into our
definitions of ourselves.

Ex. Surveillance…

What once used to be what higher authorities subjected on us, is now what we use to keep an
eye on each other and ourselves.

We have internalized the concepts of increased surveillance so much that through digital means
such as blogs, and other online social networking sites, we now monitor and publish
our own actions.
As a result, we are much more comfortable sharing private information and actually define
ourselves by what we post online.

Each thing we post online becomes a new way to express our identities; for example our
favorite quotes, pictures, videos, and wall posts…all of which define who we are, or
who we want to be.

As we become more and more exposed to today’s digital culture, our definitions of ourselves
will undoubtedly change and conform to what this new society has prescribed for us
to be.
The nature of digital culture allows these identities to be spread faster, and further than ever
before, challenging old identities and creating new ones in the ever-transforming flow
of culture.

III. Learning Activity

1. Take your most favorite selfie in class present it in your group.

2. Post each of the selfies on the board
3. Allow each student to vote on which of the selfies they like most
4. Identify which of the selfie gets the most like

IV. Assessment

5 reasons why man prefer to have a Digital Self (2 pts each)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What can you to keep your private information private on the social media?
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
 MODULE 4
THE SPIRITUAL SELF

I. Introduction

Often the most misunderstood component of man. Due to varying influences ranging
from culture/tradition to values and religion ranging from culture/tradition to values and
religion , the soul creates a divide between scientific and spiritual conversation . Regardless of
contexts and backgrounds . the subject of the soul is noteworthy because it is what separates
man from beast, thus assigning a premium on human life over that of other organisms.

The big question:

how do we know our spiritual self?

Learning Outcome

1. Explain the concept of soul from the Filipino standpoint

2. Identify various supernatural beings in the Filipino folklore and narrate stories related
to their manifestations
3. Explain the role of religion (and possibly magic and witchcraft) in creating and in
giving meaning to life

II. Study Guide

Etymological meaning
The Concept Of “Dungan”
Supernatural Beings In Philippine Folklore
Ways To Interact With The Supernatural
Types Of Religious Practitioners
Functions Of Religion

Religion

From the Latin word “religare” which means “the bond between man and God”;
Latin “religio” which means obligation, bond, reverence

Religion as a unified system of beliefs and practices relative to the sacred and the profane,
which unite into one single moral community called church and all those who adhere to them.

In the prevailing religious view among Filipinos is that Man is a tripartite being:

Body
Soul
Spirit

Others would regard the human person as a dualistic being composed of the body (material)
and soul-spirit (spiritual).
The concept of “dungan” spirit or soul
In Western philosophy:
soul is the principle of life in man
body is the matter, soul is the form
As long as body and soul are one unit, man is alive. The concept of “dungan” spirit or soul
The ‘soul’ or spirit of a person is called:

Kaluluwa by the Tagalogs

Gimokud by the Bagobos
Makatu by the Bukidnons
Dungan by the Ilonggos when the person is alive;
“kalag” or “detached”, “free”, when he is dead.
Ikararuwa by the Ibanags
Kadkadduwa by the Ilokanos when the soul is in the physical body and karuruwa when it
departs
Death is the separation of the soul from the body.

The body cannot stay alive without the soul.

But the soul lives without the body.

Freed from the body, it ceases to experience thirst and hunger, cold and heat.

As spirit, the soul is the opposite of the body which is matter. The dungan or soul is not
normally seen by the human eye. Sometimes, it comes out of the body and takes on a visible
form such as that of an insect or animal.

The dungan may leave the body voluntarily as when the person is asleep.
When a person can see himself in his dreams it means that his “other self” has left the physical
body.Another involuntary departure of the soul happens when it is lured or captured by bad
spirits or engkantu to be lured out by a skillful shaman

Sickness is the temporary loss of the soul. Its permanent loss is death. The dungan is ethereal –
something light and airy since it travels with the air or the wind. The Bisayandungan has a
secondary meaning of “willpower.”

A strong dungan is the intellectual and psychological capacity to dominate or persuade others
to one’s way of thinking.

A person with a lot of willpower is said to “have a strong dungan.”

Two people under one roof may lead to a spiritual competition between the two dungan

- defeat (and sickness) of the one with the weaker dungan

Prior to its entry and habitation of a human body, the dungan is believed to inhabit the region
above the surface of the earth

It takes a special interest in the “unborn” being, usually a relative, which it has chosen to
inhabit.

The Bisayandungan has a secondary meaning of “willpower.”

A strong dungan is the intellectual and psychological capacity to dominate or persuade others
to one’s way of thinking.

A person with a lot of willpower is said to “have a strong dungan.”

Two people under one roof may lead to a spiritual competition between the two dungan

- defeat (and sickness) of the one with the weaker dungan.

SUPERNATURAL BEINGS IN PHILIPPINE FOLKLORE

1. Aswang - Filipino ghouls and shapeshifters.

The myth of Aswang is popular in the Visayas, particularly in the provinces of Capiz, Antique and
Iloilo. The aswang is also known as wakwak, tiktik, bal-bal, soc-soc, and yanggaw.
2. Tiyanakimpakto, it is a baby who died before receiving baptism rites.
3. White Lady Dressed in white. Long hair. Beautiful face covered in blood. Woman foating
on air…
4. Tikbalang (also tigbalang, tigbalan, tikbalan, or demon horse)
5. Manananggal
6. Kapre
7. Engkanto
8. Sigbin
9. Nuno saPunso

TYPES OF RELIGIOUS PRACTITIONERS

1. Shaman – usually a part-time male specialist who has fairly high status in his community
and is often involved in healing.
2. Sorcerers and Witches – In contrast with shamans who have fairly high status, sorcerers
and witches of both sexes tend to have fairly high status.
3. Mediums – They tend to be females. These part-time practitioners are asked to heal and
are divine while in possession traces-which when they are thought to be possessed by spirits.
4. Priests – They are generally full-time male specialists, who officiate at public events.

FUNCTIONS OF RELIGION

1. It satisfies the emotional and spiritual needs of the individual.

2. It legitimizes the foundation of the society’s culture and integrates the value system of
the society.
3. It integrates and promotes group solidarity.
4. It reinforces moral norms by adding sanctions to the secular means of social control.
5. It provides one with an explanation for his strivings and helps him to rationalize his
frustrations and sufferings.
6. It provides guidance and becomes a means of social control.
7. It performs welfare and recreation functions.

III. Learning Activity

How your Religion takes care of your How you personally takes care of your
Spiritual Self (Give 3 Activities) Spiritual Self (Give 3 Activities)

IV. Assessment

Quiz #2

1. Religion came from the latin word 2. _____________ which mean the 3. _______ between
4. _______ and 5. _________.

Religion as a 6.________system of 7.________and 8.________relative to the 9.__________and

the 10. _______which unite into one single 11.________community called 12._______and all
those who adhere to them.

13. _______ is the principle of life in man body is the 14. ________, soul is the
15.___________