Sexology is a discipline that addresses the study of human sexuality from various perspectives, integrating biological, psychological, sociocultural and emotional elements. In this sense, there are seven fundamental pillars that support sexology as a science and that are key to understanding and addressing the different dimensions of sexuality. These pillars are based on scientific research, clinical experience and interdisciplinary knowledge, and provide a solid theoretical framework for understanding the diversity and complexity of human sexuality.
1. Biology and physiology
The first pillar of sexology is based on the study of the biology and physiology of human sexuality. Understanding how the hormonal systems, nervous system, sexual organs, and sexual arousal process work is essential to addressing issues related to sexual health, reproduction, and sexual functioning in general. Sexual biology and physiology allow us to understand the physical and neurochemical bases of the sexual response, as well as individual variations in sexual experience.
1.1. Human sexual response
One of the key aspects of sexual biology and physiology is the understanding of the human sexual response, as described by sexologist William Masters and Virginia Johnson in their arousal phase model. , plateau, orgasm and resolution. This model has been fundamental to investigate and treat sexual dysfunctions, as well as to understand the diversity of sexual experience in different cultural and personal contexts.
2. Psychology and psychopathology
The second pillar of sexology focuses on the study of the psychological and psychopathological aspects of sexuality. Sexual psychology addresses topics such as sexual identity, sexual orientations, paraphilias, sexual disorders and the influence of psychological factors on sexual response. Therapeutic approaches such as sexual and couples therapy are based on the understanding of the mental and emotional processes involved in people's sexual lives.
2.1. Theories of sexual development
Theories of sexual development are fundamental to understanding how sexual identity is formed and how sexual experiences evolve throughout life. From Freud's psychoanalytic theories to contemporary perspectives based on diversity and sexual fluidity, the study of sexual development helps us understand the complex interactions between biology, culture and psychology in the construction of individual sexuality.
3. Sociology and anthropology
The third pillar of sexology focuses on the sociocultural and anthropological aspects of sexuality. Human sexuality is deeply influenced by social norms, values, beliefs and practices, which vary widely over time and in different cultures. Sociology and sexual anthropology help us contextualize sexuality in a broader framework, recognizing the diversity of sexual expressions and the implications of social structures on people's sexual lives.
3.1. Social construction of gender
The social construction of gender is a central topic in sociology and sexual anthropology, as it influences the way gender identities and sexual relationships are understood and experienced. The study of gender norms, sexual roles and social expectations allows us to understand how power, hierarchy and discrimination are articulated in the area of sexuality and intimate relationships.
4. Sexual education and prevention
The fourth pillar of sexology focuses on sexual education and the prevention of sexual health risks. Sexual education is a fundamental tool to promote sexual health, prevent sexually transmitted diseases, avoid unwanted pregnancies and promote safe and consensual sexual relations. Accurate and up-to-date information about sexuality is essential for people to make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual lives.
4.1. Promotion of sexual health
The promotion of sexual health involves the dissemination of accurate and bias-free information about sexuality, as well as raising awareness about sexual diversity and respect for the sexual rights of all people. people. Educational and preventive interventions play an important role in reducing the risks associated with sexuality and promoting healthy and respectful sexual behaviors.
5. Sexual and couples therapy
The fifth pillar of sexology focuses on sexual and couples therapy as a tool to address sexual and relational difficulties. Sex therapy is based on an integrative approach that considers the biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects of human sexuality, and seeks to provide support and guidance to people facing problems in their sexual lives. Couples therapy addresses the dynamics of the relationship and how these influence the intimacy and sexual satisfaction of the couple.
5.1. Therapeutic approaches
There are different therapeutic approaches in sexual and couples therapy, ranging from cognitive-behavioral interventions to therapies focused on trauma or deep emotional exploration. Each therapeutic approach has its own techniques and strategies to address sexual dysfunctions, relationship conflicts and other difficulties related to sexuality. The important thing is to adapt the treatment to the individual needs and characteristics of each person or couple.
6. Sexual and reproductive rights
The sixth pillar of sexology focuses on sexual and reproductive rights as essential components of people's health and well-being. Sexual rights include the right to privacy, sexual autonomy, sexual education, and non-discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, among other aspects. Reproductive rights encompass the freedom to decide about reproduction, access to sexual and reproductive health information and services, and the prevention of sexual and gender violence.
6.1. Diversity and inclusion
Sexology recognizes the diversity of sexual and gender expressions in the contemporary world, promoting inclusion and respect for all sexual identities and orientations. Approaches based on human rights and gender equality are essential to ensure that all people can enjoy a healthy sexual life, free of violence and discrimination.
7. Research and clinical practice
The seventh pillar of sexology focuses on scientific research and clinical practice as fundamental axes for the advancement of the discipline. Research in sexology covers studies on human sexuality in its different dimensions, from biological and psychological to sociocultural and educational aspects. Clinical practice includes the diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunctions, couples therapy, sexual education and the promotion of sexual health in various contexts and populations.
7.1. Advances and challenges
Sexology has experienced significant advances in recent decades, thanks to the development of new technologies, innovative therapeutic approaches and greater awareness of the importance of sexuality in people's health and well-being. . However, it also faces important challenges, such as the lack of specialized training in sexuality, the stigmatization of certain sexual practices and resistance to changes in public policies related to sexuality and sexual rights.
In Conclusion, the seven pillars of sexology represent the theoretical and practical foundations that support the study and intervention in the field of human sexuality. Integrating biological, psychological, sociocultural, educational, clinical and human rights aspects, sexology is positioned as an interdisciplinary discipline that seeks to understand, promote and respect the diversity and complexity of the sexual experiences of people in today's society.