The Richard Wells Research Centre at Thames Valley University

Sexual Health:

Sexual health has been identified as a major public health concern in the UK.  Teenage pregnancies are still high, the number of sexually transmitted infections is increasing and there are high numbers of newly diagnosed HIV positive clients every week.  The government has responded to this with the national strategy for sexual health and HIV services (2001).  This identifies the need for local co-ordination of planning and provision of sexual health promotion, and the need to identify and respond to specific sexual health promotion needs of local populations of groups that need more specific interventions.  Integrating the strategy with primary health care is seen as essential.  This is challenging for many health care professionals, teachers and others involved in delivering the strategy who do not feel able to communicate effectively with clients regarding their sexual attitudes and behaviour.

This module has been developed to provide a relevant knowledge base for students working in this field.  The overall aim is to enable students to understand the complexities involved in sexual behaviour, the current social and political context and effective strategies for sexual health promotion.  The course is designed to encourage critical thinking and evaluation of sexual health promotion. 

This module will use a “blended” method of delivery.  Approximately half of the module will be delivered on line and half will take the form of traditional “face to face” sessions. Both the online and face to face components will draw on a variety of learning activities including both individual and group work. The assessment for the module requires you to critically discuss the social, psychological and economic implications of a sexual health issue that has an impact on public health.