Psychology 309: Science of Sexual Orientation

This advanced seminar explores critically the contemporary psychological science of human homosexuality (major theories, methods, findings, and gaps in our knowledge). Other forms of sexual diversity may be addressed. The course emphasizes empirical studies and reviews in such areas as the subjective experience, psychobiology, and developmental course of homosexuality, as well as questions related to same-sex relationships and parenting, sexual-minority discrimination, and gay-affirmative therapy. Most class meetings will involve guided discussion of assigned readings; toward the second half of the semester, students will lead discussion with the instructor’s support. Additional assignments may include weekly written responses to the readings and two or three papers. May be taken for credit toward the Gender Studies major or minor.