Teaching about sex and sexuality in social work: an international critical perspective

Abstract

Based on the recent call to expand the discussion about sex and sexuality in social work, and coming from an international perspective, this paper offers a theoretical and practical strategy for teaching sex and sexuality in social work. The pedagogical strategy aims at creating a critical thinking classroom. Specifically, the paper presents six key topics for teaching sex and sexuality critically in social work: 1. Sexuality in social work fields; 2. Sexuality as a social constructed phenomenon; 3. Categorizations and sexual identities; 4. Structural-based privileges and disadvantages; 5. Reproduction of power asymmetries through microaggressions; 6. Expanding the conception of sexuality in social work. Each topic is presented with suggestions for literature and critical questions for classroom.