Unit information: Sociology of Sexuality in 2012/13

Unit name	Sociology of Sexuality
Unit code	SOCI30017
Credit points	20
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Jackie West
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

The unit examines the social patterning of sexual relations and sexual difference, the background to contemporary debates and associated social theories. It emphasises the differences between sociological perspectives and those of both other disciplines and popular culture. For example, it questions current preoccupations with gender, discourse and identities and situates the social organisation of sexuality within a broader set of structural determinations and the variable conditions which shape (de)regulation. Close attention is also paid to methodological as well as ethical issues. It asks how changes in sexual attitudes, in personal behaviour and experience can be assessed, if not measured, examining the use and limitations of both quantitative and qualitative research in this field.

Aims:

• to highlight the distinctive contribution of sociological concepts and methods to the analysis of sex and sexual relations;

• to explore the relation between the biological and the social in the construction of sexual and gender difference;

• to locate sexuality in relation to family formation and reproduction, social class, ethnic diversity and gender differences;

• to explain variations in forms of regulation, especially state control, and their social significance;

• to illustrate the value of different methodologies for the empirical study of intimate behaviour.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate a critical approach to received views on sexuality, both mainstream and radical;
2. explain the factors which influence the variable social organisation of sexuality;
3. show how sociological research contributes to an understanding of sexuality.

Teaching Information

Option 1 – A 1hr lecture and 2 hour seminar

Option 2 – A 3 hr seminar

Assessment Information

Two summative essays or equivalent assignments, the first of 2000 words (40% of final mark), due approximately midway through the unit, the second of 3000 words (60% of final mark).

The first essay/assignment will assess the achievement of outcomes 1 and 2.

The second essay/assignment will assess the achievement of outcomes 1, 2 and 3.

Reading and References

• Weeks, J. (2007) The World We Have Won: Remaking Erotic and Intimate Life, Routledge

• Hawkes, G (1996) A Sociology of Sex and Sexuality, OU Press

• Holland, J et al. (1998) The Male in the Head: Young People and Heterosexuality, Tufnell Press

• Arthurs, J (2004) Television and Sexuality: Regulation and the Politics of Taste, OU Press

• Campbell, R & McNeill, M (eds)(2006) Sex Work Now, Willan

• Agustin, L (2007) Sex at the Margins: Migration, Labour Markets and the Rescue Industry, Zed