Background and Importance of Sexuality Communication
In this lesson, you learned about the importance of being able to communicate effectively and clearly about sexuality topics, as well as strategies for doing so.
In this assignment, you will practice effective sexuality communication by developing three (3) different scenarios in which two individuals use effective communication strategies to discuss sexuality-related topics.
Step 1: Background and Importance of Sexuality Communication
Begin this assignment by writing 1-2 paragraphs describing the importance of sexuality communication, broadly and on a personal level. Address the importance of communication for personal relationships and sexual health. Explain why sexuality communication can sometimes be difficult. Be sure to include references to supporting sources, as appropriate.
Step 2: Develop Scenarios and Construct the Dialogues
Develop three (3) different scenarios on sexuality topics of your choosing. You can draw upon concepts covered throughout the course, including issues such as gender roles, sexual orientation, contraception, pregnancy, STIs, sexual satisfaction, sexual difficulties, sexual health concerns, relationship issues, sexual histories, and obtaining consent. You are not limited to these topics. You may choose other topics as long as they are related to the overall course content.
Each scenario should consist of two individuals who will be discussing a sexuality related topic. You are to describe who the individuals are, their relationship to each other, who wants to bring up the conversation, and what the issue is that needs to be discussed. At least one scenario needs to address:
- Learning about a partner’s sexual wants and needs and/or making requests; OR
- Expressing complaints and/or receiving complaints.
Step 3: Create the Dialogues and Identify Strategies
For each scenario, create a dialogue between the individuals in the scenario to demonstrate effective communication strategies.
Write a few sentences (3-5 sentences) after the dialogue identifying and explaining the specific effective communication strategies used, such as those noted in the list below (The list is not exhaustive; you may use other strategies within your dialogues.):
- methods for breaking the ice or raising a difficult topic;
- active listening techniques and giving feedback;
- effective questions; and/or
- identifying constructive and destructive communication tactics.
Step 4: Summarize and Reflect
Conclude the assignment with a brief reflection on the most useful strategies you learned in this lesson and/or any ongoing questions or concerns you have about effective sexuality communication techniques.
