Students Will Conduct A Real Or Hypothetical Sexual History

Students Will Conduct A Real Or Hypothetical Sexual History And Assess

Students will conduct a real or hypothetical sexual history and assessment report. The objective of this assignment is to: a) learn to become more comfortable (desensitized), and to help others become more comfortable, discussing sexuality topics in counseling, b) practice conducting a real or hypothetical sexuality interview and history and c) to have an opportunity to reflect upon his/her own sexuality issues and how they may affect his or her performance as a professional counselor when working with a client presenting with sexuality related concerns. Following the Sex Therapy Assessment Questionnaire provided in the Module 12 materials, students will practice clinical interviewing skills by conducting a sexual history assessment with another student, a friend, or a hypothetical client.

The results of the assessment will be included in a written report identifying: Significant perceptions, attitudes and assumptions regarding gender roles and sexuality issues. Treatment plan indicating how you, as friend, partner or therapist, might be most helpful to this individual regarding any concerns or counseling objectives that may be influenced by your findings. Please respect anonymity of subject. Length and format: this report is to be completed in APA format, and should be no more than 6-7 pages.

Paper For Above instruction

The process of conducting a sexual history assessment is an essential component of clinical practice in counseling and psychotherapy. This assignment offers an opportunity for students to develop their skills in exploring sensitive topics related to sexuality, which are often overlooked or avoided due to discomfort or societal taboos. The primary goal is to desensitize students to conversations about sexuality, thereby promoting greater comfort and competence when addressing sexual issues with clients. Furthermore, it encourages self-reflection on personal attitudes and beliefs that might influence therapeutic interactions and decision-making.

The sexual history assessment, guided by the Sex Therapy Assessment Questionnaire provided in Module 12, involves a structured interview that probes various dimensions of an individual's sexual life, including their sexual development, attitudes, behaviors, and concerns. Students can choose to interview a peer, a friend, or construct a hypothetical case that reflects common or challenging scenarios faced in clinical settings. Through this exercise, students practice essential clinical interviewing skills such as active listening, empathetic responding, and non-judgmental inquiry, all of which are crucial for effective sexual health counseling.

In addition, this assignment emphasizes the importance of understanding personal perceptions, attitudes, and assumptions about gender roles and sexuality issues. Recognizing one's biases is fundamental to providing unbiased, client-centered care. Reflection on how personal beliefs may influence the therapeutic process allows students to cultivate greater self-awareness and professional integrity.

The written report should synthesize the information gathered during the assessment. It must include a summary of significant perceptions, attitudes, and assumptions involving sexuality and gender roles. The report should also feature a comprehensive treatment plan outlining potential counseling strategies tailored to the individual's concerns and objectives. For example, if the assessment uncovers issues related to sexual identity or intimacy challenges, the treatment plan might incorporate psychoeducation, communication skills training, and exploration of personal beliefs and cultural influences.

When developing the treatment plan, students should consider how their role as a confidant, partner, or therapist impacts their approach and how ethical considerations, such as maintaining anonymity and confidentiality, are upheld. Respecting client privacy is paramount, especially when real individuals are involved, whereas hypothetical cases encourage creative but realistic scenarios.

The assignment must be formatted in APA style, including proper citations, references, and adherence to academic standards. The length of the report should not exceed 6-7 pages, ensuring clarity, conciseness, and thoroughness in presenting assessment findings and intervention strategies. This exercise ultimately aims to foster competent, empathetic practitioners equipped to handle complex sexual health issues with sensitivity and professionalism.

References

  • Byers, E. S. (2013). Psychological Perspectives on Human Sexuality. McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Levine, S. B. (2017). The Myth of Sexual Orientation. Routledge.
  • O’Connell, D. (2015). Understanding Sexual Issues and Disorders. Routledge.
  • Reissing, E. D., & Hegarty, K. (2014). Sexuality and intimacy in counseling. Journal of Counseling & Development, 92(2), 180–188.
  • Sandnabba, N. K., & Santtila, P. (2008). Sexual identity and attitudes towards sexuality: Cross-cultural perspectives. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 37(4), 603–615.
  • Schaefer, C. E., & DiGeronimo, T. F. (2011). Counseling Strategies and Skills. Pearson.
  • Sprenkle, D. H., & Blow, A. J. (2015). Common Factors Research and Clinical Practice. Routledge.
  • Stokes, J. E. (2018). Sexuality counseling competencies. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 44(4), 321–333.
  • Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005). The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy. Basic Books.
  • World Health Organization. (2017). Standards for sexuality education in Europe. WHO Press.