reproductive health services for adolescents - Pathfinder International

UNIT 10:
SEXUAL IDENTITY AND ORIENTATION
Module 16/Unit 10
INTRODUCTION:
Sexual orientation can be a difficult subject to address because it sometimes conflicts
with personal, cultural, or religious values and attitudes regarding sexuality. However,
as providers and counselors, it is important to understand that a range of sexual
orientations and identities exist. Adolescence is a time of sexual experimentation and
defining a sexual identity. An adolescent client who is struggling with her/his sexual
identity often experiences deep emotional turmoil that sometimes can lead to suicide.
While providers and counselors may hold their own personal opinions regarding sexual
orientation, it is their responsibility to provide accurate and unbiased information and
services to all adolescent clients. Many gay and lesbian youth avoid health services for
fear that they will be judged or that their sexual orientation will be disclosed to others.
Providers and counselors can help clients overcome this fear by maintaining strict
practices of confidentiality and serving clients in a non-judgmental manner.
UNIT TRAINING OBJECTIVE:
To help providers respond to issues of sexual orientation.
SPECIFIC LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
By the end of the unit, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the different types of sexual expression and orientation.
2. Respond to issues of sexual expression or orientation.
TRAINING/LEARNING METHODOLOGY:
• Group work
• Fishbowl exercise
• Trainer presentation
MAJOR REFERENCES AND TRAINING MATERIALS:
• American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Adolescence. 2001. Statement of
homosexuality and adolescence. SEICUS Reports. 29 (Apr.-May):23-25.
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Adolescent Curriculum