2.1. Unpacking the Self
Intended Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify the different aspects of self and identity
2. Demonstrate critical, reflective thought in integrating the various aspects of self
and identity through video presentation
3. Identify the different forces and institutions that impact the development of various
aspects of self and identity
4. Reflect on one’s self against the different aspects of self
2.1.1. The Physical Self
2.1.2. Sexual Self
It has been believed that the sex chromosomes of humans define the sex (female
or male) and their secondary sexual characteristics. From childhood, we are controlled
by our genetic make-up. It influences the way we treat ourselves and others. However,
there are individuals who do not accept their innate sexual characteristics and they tend
to change their sexual organs through medications and surgery. Aside from our genes,
our society or the external environment helps shape our selves.
Gonads – reproductive gland that produce the gametes: testis or ovary begin to form until
about the eighth week of embryonic development (Marieb, E.N., 2001)
Puberty – generally between the ages of 10 and 15 years old – the period when the
reproductive organs grow to their adult size and become functional under the
influence of rising levels of gonadal hormones (testosterone in males and estrogen
in females). After, reproductive capability continues until old age in males and
menopause in females.
, Diseases Associated with the Reproductive System
Infections – most common problems associated with the reproductive system in adults.
Vaginal infections are more common in young and elderly women and in those
whose resistance to diseases is low.
The usual infections include those caused by Escherichia coli which spread
through the digestive tract; the sexually transmitted microorganisms such
as syphilis, gonorrhea, herpes virus; and yeast (a type of fungus).
Vaginal infections that are left untreated may spread throughout the female
reproductive tract and may cause pelvic inflammatory disease and sterility.
Problems that involve painful or abnormal menses may also be due to
infection or hormone imbalance.
In males, the most common inflammatory conditions are prostatitis, urethritis, and
epididymitis, all of which may follow sexual contacts in which sexually transmitted
disease (STD) microorganisms are transmitted.
Orchiditis, or inflammation of the testes, is rather uncommon but is serious
because it can cause sterility. Orchiditis most commonly follows mumps in an adult
male.
Most women hit the highest point of their reproductive abilities in their late 20s. A natural
decrease in ovarian function usually characterized by reduced estrogen that
causes irregular ovulation and shorter menstrual periods. Consequently, ovulation
and menses stop entirely, ending childbearing ability. This event is called
menopause, which occurs when females no longer experience menstruation.
There is no counterpart for menopause in males. Although aging men show a steady
decline in testosterone secretion, their reproductive capability seems unending.
Healthy men are still able to father offspring well into their 80s and beyond.
Erogenous Zones – refers to parts of the body that are primarily receptive and increase
sexual arousal when touched in a sexual manner.
- mouth, breasts, genitals, and anus
- may include the neck, thighs, abdomen, and feet
Human Sexual Behavior – any activity – solitary, between two persons, or in a group –
that induces sexual arousal (Gebhard, P.H. 2017).
Intended Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify the different aspects of self and identity
2. Demonstrate critical, reflective thought in integrating the various aspects of self
and identity through video presentation
3. Identify the different forces and institutions that impact the development of various
aspects of self and identity
4. Reflect on one’s self against the different aspects of self
2.1.1. The Physical Self
2.1.2. Sexual Self
It has been believed that the sex chromosomes of humans define the sex (female
or male) and their secondary sexual characteristics. From childhood, we are controlled
by our genetic make-up. It influences the way we treat ourselves and others. However,
there are individuals who do not accept their innate sexual characteristics and they tend
to change their sexual organs through medications and surgery. Aside from our genes,
our society or the external environment helps shape our selves.
Gonads – reproductive gland that produce the gametes: testis or ovary begin to form until
about the eighth week of embryonic development (Marieb, E.N., 2001)
Puberty – generally between the ages of 10 and 15 years old – the period when the
reproductive organs grow to their adult size and become functional under the
influence of rising levels of gonadal hormones (testosterone in males and estrogen
in females). After, reproductive capability continues until old age in males and
menopause in females.
, Diseases Associated with the Reproductive System
Infections – most common problems associated with the reproductive system in adults.
Vaginal infections are more common in young and elderly women and in those
whose resistance to diseases is low.
The usual infections include those caused by Escherichia coli which spread
through the digestive tract; the sexually transmitted microorganisms such
as syphilis, gonorrhea, herpes virus; and yeast (a type of fungus).
Vaginal infections that are left untreated may spread throughout the female
reproductive tract and may cause pelvic inflammatory disease and sterility.
Problems that involve painful or abnormal menses may also be due to
infection or hormone imbalance.
In males, the most common inflammatory conditions are prostatitis, urethritis, and
epididymitis, all of which may follow sexual contacts in which sexually transmitted
disease (STD) microorganisms are transmitted.
Orchiditis, or inflammation of the testes, is rather uncommon but is serious
because it can cause sterility. Orchiditis most commonly follows mumps in an adult
male.
Most women hit the highest point of their reproductive abilities in their late 20s. A natural
decrease in ovarian function usually characterized by reduced estrogen that
causes irregular ovulation and shorter menstrual periods. Consequently, ovulation
and menses stop entirely, ending childbearing ability. This event is called
menopause, which occurs when females no longer experience menstruation.
There is no counterpart for menopause in males. Although aging men show a steady
decline in testosterone secretion, their reproductive capability seems unending.
Healthy men are still able to father offspring well into their 80s and beyond.
Erogenous Zones – refers to parts of the body that are primarily receptive and increase
sexual arousal when touched in a sexual manner.
- mouth, breasts, genitals, and anus
- may include the neck, thighs, abdomen, and feet
Human Sexual Behavior – any activity – solitary, between two persons, or in a group –
that induces sexual arousal (Gebhard, P.H. 2017).
