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Key Concepts

The Guidelines are organized into six key concepts.  Each key concept has associated life behaviors, topics, subconcepts, and age-appropriate developmental messages.

Key Concept 1: Human Development. Human development is characterized by the interrelationship between physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth.

Topics in Human Development

• Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology

• Reproduction

• Puberty

• Body Image

• Sexual Identity and Orientation

Key Concept 2: Relationships. Relationships play a central role throughout our lives.

Topics in Relationships

• Families

• Friendship

• Love

• Dating

• Marriage and Lifetime Commitments

• Raising Children

Key Concept 3: Personal Skills. Healthy sexuality requires the development and use of specific person and interpersonal skills.

Topics in Personal Skills

• Values

• Decision-making

• Communication

• Assertiveness

• Negotiation

• Looking for Help

Key Concept 4: Sexual Behavior. Sexuality is central to being human and individual express their sexuality in a variety of ways.

Topics in Sexual Behavior

• Sexuality Throughout Life

• Masturbation

• Shared Sexual Behavior

• Abstinence

• Human Sexual Response

• Fantasy

• Sexual Dysfunction

Key Concept 5: Sexual Health. The promotion of sexual health requires specific information and attitudes to avoid unwanted consequences of sexual behaviors. 

Topics in Sexual Health

• Contraception

• Abortion

• Sexually Transmitted Diseases, including HIV Infection

• Sexual Abuse

• Reproductive Health

Key Concept 6: Society and Culture. Social and cultural environments shape the way individuals learn about and express their sexuality.

Topics in Society and Culture

• Sexuality and Society

• Gender Roles

• Sexuality and the Law

• Sexuality and Religion

• Diversity

• Sexuality and the Arts

• Sexuality and the Media

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