Why is it important to study sexuality across history? Across cultures? Across
species? In other words, what can studying sexuality in this way tell us about
ourselves? About sexuality?
Curiosity is the driving force behind individuals' interest in studying the topic of
sex, as explained by Hyde and DeLamater (2020). In the United States, there has
always been a societal taboo surrounding sex. The influence of sexuality penetrates
every aspect of an individual's life; therefore, the study of sex is not only practical but
also essential. By examining sex, we can enhance our understanding of reproductive
health and our overall mental well-being (Wright, 2016). Human sexuality is
profoundly shaped by religion, science, and culture, and exploring these
commonalities and variations can provide valuable insights into sexual behaviors and
gender roles (Hyde & DeLamater, 2020). Studying sexuality in greater depth will
enable individuals to learn about themselves and others (Wright, 2016). Similar to
how humans progress and change as a community, sex also undergoes development
(Wright, 2016). Examining history can provide current and future generations with an
understanding of sexual advancement.
Describe a few ways that our ideas about sex have evolved over the past 100 years
in the United States. How has this evolution impacted current counseling practices
today when dealing with this issue?
For the past century, religion and gossip have served as the primary channels of
information regarding sexuality (Hyde & DeLamater, 2020). In ancient Greece, the
presence of both heterosexuality and homosexuality was openly recognized and
explained through mythological narratives. During the fifteenth century, Christians
attributed "wet dreams" (nocturnal emissions) to interactions with supernatural beings
known as incubi and succubi, and individuals experiencing such dreams were deemed
