Community Awareness Course: Sexuality and Disability

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/sexuality-and-disability

Introduction

**Course Review: Community Awareness Course: Sexuality and Disability** In a world that is increasingly recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the **Community Awareness Course: Sexuality and Disability** from the University of Minnesota Program on Human Sexuality stands out as a crucial educational experience. This course addresses a frequently overlooked but vital area of discussion—human sexuality as it pertains to individuals living with disabilities. ### Course Overview The **Community Awareness Course** offers a comprehensive introduction to the intersection of human sexuality and disabilities. Spanning just one hour, this professionally produced course is designed to challenge the misconceptions surrounding individuals with disabilities and their sexual needs. Society often assumes that those who are differently abled lack sexual desires or the ability to engage in sexual relationships. This course aims to dismantle those assumptions by providing participants with accurate information and insights. ### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Introduction From the Author**: The course kicks off with an engaging introduction, setting the stage for the importance of understanding sexuality in the context of disability. 2. **Human Sexuality**: This section emphasizes that human sexuality is a fundamental aspect of adult relationships and a right that should be afforded to all individuals, regardless of their physical capabilities. The discussion here is thought-provoking and establishes a strong foundation for the course. 3. **Introduction to Physical Disability**: Participants will learn about the barriers and facilitators of discussing sexuality related to different abilities. This segment emphasizes the importance of recognizing these barriers and fostering open conversations around the topic. 4. **Arthritis**: This section addresses how arthritis can impact sexual activity due to pain and mobility issues. It creatively suggests various strategies and positions to enhance the experience, encouraging adaptive practices that prioritize comfort and pleasure. 5. **Cerebral Palsy**: Acknowledging the diverse range of movement restrictions associated with cerebral palsy, this part of the course discusses accessible sexual activities. By focusing on inclusivity, it helps demystify sexual experiences for individuals with this condition. 6. **Dwarfism**: Confronting the myths surrounding people of short stature, this section not only debunks common misconceptions but also emphasizes the unique challenges and considerations in the context of sexuality. It serves as an enlightening read for anyone aiming to understand the broader spectrum of human sexual experiences. ### Review and Recommendations This course is a must for anyone interested in enhancing their understanding of sexuality as it relates to individuals with disabilities. Its value extends beyond educational institutions to various fields, including healthcare, social work, education, and community service. **What I Appreciated**: - **Inclusivity**: The course thoughtfully addresses a crucial yet often neglected topic, helping participants challenge their biases and embrace a more holistic view of human sexuality. - **Accessibility**: With a mix of informative text and clear, relatable examples, the material is accessible for all learners, regardless of their prior knowledge. - **Practical Guidance**: The course provides actionable insights, with practical suggestions that empower individuals with mobility limitations to explore their sexuality comfortably. **Who Should Take This Course**: - **Professionals in Healthcare and Social Work**: Those who work closely with individuals with disabilities will find this course invaluable for fostering empathy and understanding. - **Educators and Students**: Teachers and students in health-related fields will benefit from this comprehensive resource, enhancing their curriculum and discussions around human sexuality. - **Individuals with Disabilities or Their Friends and Families**: Anyone who wants to navigate the complexities of sexuality and understand the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities should consider this course. In conclusion, the **Community Awareness Course: Sexuality and Disability** is an enlightening, eye-opening experience that encourages a shift in perception regarding human sexuality and disability. I wholeheartedly recommend this course to anyone looking to better understand and advocate for the sexual rights and experiences of those with disabilities.

Syllabus

Introduction From the Author

Human sexuality is an important part of human adult relationships, and is regarded as a right for all adults to express themselves. Understanding human sexuality from the perspective of people with disabilities or who are differently abled is important, as this is an area frequently missing from discussion of human sexuality.

Disability or different ability is an area not often included in sexuality discussion. This section introduces the conversation about the importance of sexuality in people who are differently abled, and some of the barriers and facilitators that need to be considered in this discussion.

Arthritis is a condition which can be painful and where this pain reduces some possibilities for some sexual activities. This section provides some possibilities for having sex while minimizing pain, through different positions and activities.

Cerebral palsy may encompass a wide range of restrictions of movement, and this section addresses these, along with considering sexual activities that may be easier for people with some of these movement limitations.

Small stature (sometimes called dwarfism) has a number of myths associated with it and relating to sexuality. This section reviews many of these, and sexual considerations that little people may find issues to fulfilling sexual activity.