Homosexuality and Sexual Identity
(CPSY 7592)

This class is taught by recognized author and leader in the field Dr. Mark Yarhouse along with members from his team at the Institue for the Study of Sexual Identity.

This course focuses on an intermediate and advanced understanding of the topics of homosexuality and sexual identity. It considers theological, biological, and sociocultural perspectives on homosexuality and sexual identity, as well as clinical and applied perspectives with a focus on assessment and intervention when clients present with sexual identity concerns.

In broad terms, this course seeks to:

1. Facilitate understanding of the complex issues related to homosexuality and sexual identity, including sociocultural context, mental health perspective, and recent professional discussions.
2. Provide an in-depth understanding of homosexuality and sexual identity from a Christian perspective, so that students understand biblical references and theological themes with respect to a Christian sexual ethic.
3. Expose students to several models for responding to clients who experience same-sex attraction, following a continuum of services that has been discussed in the professional literature, as well as a more in-depth exposure to recent developments in sexual identity therapy.

Praise from past students

In looking back on my experience in this intensive, I think that I walked away feeling more confident in my own theories surrounding this difficult topic. Dr. Yarhouse is very thorough in his explanations. The assessments that he offers are a great framework for diagnosis and treatment planning on a case by case basis. I honestly believe that this class is one of the best that I have ever attended. ~AC

Thank you for such a wonderful, enlightening, educational and practical weekend. I have worked with this population for a few years but have limited in approach and process. This class expanded my knowledge and sharpened my clinical skill. I was affected on many levels. I sat in class most of the weekend in awe at the opportunity that God had provided me to be sitting under the teaching and training of such a high calibar team. ~DJ

Basic Outline

• Introduction to Course & Instructor(s)
• Theological perspectives on sexuality
• Historical perspectives on the gay movement
• Research on homosexuality
• Gender dysphoria
• Clinical issues-pathology
• Professional/ethical issues
• Continuum of responses/clinical options
• The Church’s response
• Sexual identity theory
• Sexual identity in clinical practice
• Modules for navigating sexual identity confusion
• Facilitating sexual identity synthesis

Texts*

• Gagnon, R. A. J., & Via, D. O. (2003). Homosexuality and the Bible: Two views. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press.
• Jones, S. L., & Yarhouse, M. A. (2000). Homosexuality: The use of scientific research in the church’s moral debate. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.
• Yarhouse, M. A. (Ed.) (2005). Special theme issue: Sexual identity. Journal of Psychology and Christianity, 24.
• Yarhouse, M. (2005). Sexual identity clinic: Modules for informed consent, assessment, treatment planning, and intervention (Rev. ed.). Virginia Beach, VA: Available from the author.
• Yarhouse, M. A., & Burkett, L. A. (2003). Sexual identity: A guide to living in the time between the times. Lanham, MD: University Press of America.
• Wolkomir, M. (2006) Be not deceived: The sacred and sexual struggles of gay and ex-gay Christian men. New Brunswick: Rutgers University Press.
• Haldeman, D. C. (1994). The practice and ethics of sexual orientation conversion therapy. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 62 (2), 221-227.
• Nichols, M. (2000) Therapy with sexual minorities. In Leiblum, S. R. & Rosen, R. C. (Eds.), Principles and practice of sex therapy (3rd ed.). New York: Guilford Press.
• Rekers, G. (1995). Assessment and treatment methods for gender identity disorder and transvestism. In Rekers, G. (Ed.), The handbook of child and adolescent sexual problems. Lanham, MD: Lexington Books.
• Throckmorton, W., & Yarhouse, M. A. (2006). Sexual identity therapy guidelines.  Available at www.drthrockmorton.com.
• Yarhouse, M. A. (1998). When Clients Seek Treatment for Same-Sex Attraction: Ethical Issues in the “Right to Choose” Debate. Psychotherapy, 35, 248-259.

*Subject ot change. Current students must check the syllabus for the correct reading list.

Prerequisite

As this is an advanced class involving discussion and case studies, students are required to have completed CPSY 6512 before registering for this class.
Read about our exceptions policy here...

Schedule

This course is currently being offered approximately every other year depending upon student request. Currently Scheduled for November 14-16, 2008

* * Register Now! * *

Other Information

Click here for information on cost, travel and housing.

* Texts vary somewhat depending upon professor(s) for each class.

** Professors are subject to last minute change. Professors will be from the identified faculty list. Guest speakers will be recognized experts in the subject they teach on.