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Understanding sexuality

Introduction

Discussion on sexuality should begin with awareness that the topic is considered 'sensitive' by many, especially in Eastern communities.

The information provided in this portal has been extensively reviewed by a committee comprising of educators, healthcare professionals, representatives from religious sectors and non-governmental organizations involved in sexuality education of the youths.

What is sexuality?

Sexuality is an expression of identity through gender (male and female).

It is also a personal and private feeling that involves understanding of one's own sexual responses and emotions.

These feelings include personal values and beliefs that interact with general concept of sex. Examples: Love and sexual orientation.

Four aspects (Biological, Psychological, Socio-cultural, Spiritual) of sexuality

There are many forms of human sexuality

It comprises the physiological, psychological, social, cultural, political, and spiritual or religious aspects of sex and human sexual behavior

3R of sexuality (Responsibility, Rights, and Respects)

Rights

Everyone has the right to get accurate information on sexuality

You have the right to make your own decisions. Your decisions should not bring harm to yourself and others

You have the right for access to healthcare services

Respects

You should respect individual and community rights

Responsibilities

Every individual has responsibilities towards self, family, and community

You have responsibility to achieve self potential and development

You also have responsibility to avoid self-destruction such as unwanted pregnancies, induced abortion and sexually transmitted infections

How do the 3R of sexuality link together?

Before an individual's sexual RIGHTS can be RESPECTED by others, he/she must first indicate that he/she is RESPONSIBLE enough towards his/her own self, family and community.

Example: It is considered a RESPONSIBLE act to commit oneself into a marriage before exercising his/her individual sexual RIGHTS. This commitment is a symbol of RESPECT that the couple have for each other

It is your RESPONSIBILITY to RESPECT the collective RIGHTS of the community.

Example: You might feel that it is your individual RIGHT to dress as you wish. However it is the collective RIGHTS of your community to expect appropriate and proper dressing from everyone. Therefore as a RESPONSIBLE person who RESPECTS others, you should not be wearing indecent clothing at public places.

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