Module 13: Sex & Love

Description: This module explores the neuroscience of sexual behavior, attraction, & parenting. Students will examine how hormones influence sexual development, orientation, & behavior, & how brain structures & genetics contribute to gender identity & romantic attachment. Topics include the sexual response cycle, sexually dimorphic brain structures, hormonal regulation, & the neurobiology of love & bonding.

Why This Module is Important: Understanding the biological basis of sex & love is essential for psychology professionals working in clinical, counseling, developmental, & health contexts. This module provides insight into how biology interacts with culture, identity, & emotion.

For counselors, this module provides:

• A framework for discussing gender identity, sexual orientation, & romantic relationships.
• Understanding of how hormonal & neurological factors influence behavior & emotional connection.
• Tools for addressing sexual dysfunction & relationship dynamics in therapy.

For other psychology professionals, this module supports:

• Research into sexual development, orientation, & bonding.
• Educational strategies for teaching about gender & sexuality.
• Clinical assessment of sexual health & identity-related concerns.
• Integration of neuroscience into developmental & social psychology.

Module Learning Objectives: By the end of this module students will be able to…

• MLO1: Describe the hormonal & neural mechanisms underlying sexual behavior & reproductive cycles. (CLO1, ULO3)
• MLO2: Analyze the biological & neurological correlates of sexual orientation, gender identity, & romantic attachment. (CLO2, CLO3, ULO3)
• MLO3: Evaluate ethical, cultural, & political implications of neuroscience research on sex, gender, & love. (CLO3, CLO4, ULO3)

Test Yourself: If you truly “know” this material then you will be able to…

• Explain how hormones like testosterone, estrogen, oxytocin, & vasopressin influence sexual behavior & parental bonding. (MLO1)
• Analyze how brain structures such as INAH-3 & SDN-POA relate to sexual orientation & gender differences. (MLO2)
• Evaluate how neuroscience findings have been used—and misused—in debates about gender identity & sexual orientation. (MLO3)