Episode 2: Sex Positivity and Why It's Important
Explicit
What is Sex Positivity?
- Taking a look at an article written by Morgan Mandriota called “All About Sex Positivity” https://psychcentral.com/health/sex-positivity-meaning
- It's well written and has some great explanations and resources
- “My personal working definition of ‘sex positivity’ is operating around the topics of human sexuality, health, and pleasure with respect and without shame or stigma. This includes gender identity, orientation, sex education, nudity, relationship styles, body positivity, safer sex, reproductive equity, and much more,” says Goody Howard, a resident sex educator for sexual hygiene and body care company Royal.
- “Historically, it was common for sex to be viewed from a moralistic (based in sin) or medicalized (based in sickness or disease) framework. Through these lenses, otherwise natural and healthy sexual desires and behaviors are something to be repressed, controlled, or cured,” explains sociologist and certified sexologist Sarah Melancon, PhD with The Sex Toy Collective.
- How I viewed sex and sexuality
Why is Sex Positivity important?
- A sex positive approach realizes the potential life enhancing aspects of human sexuality, and presents sexuality as something that can be valued and celebrated, thereby giving people permission to consider their own sexuality. It is important to note that sex positivity is not sex promotion.
Why should we become sex-positive?
What is Sex Negativity?
Sex negative examples
Sex negativity is everywhere, and it’s easy to internalize. But it’s important to notice when it pops up so you can stop it in its tracks.
How can you tell if you or someone you know is sex-negative? Obvious and subtle signs of sex negativity may include:
- using STIs or sexualities as punchlines (think: asking if someone’s rash is herpes or calling someone “gay” as a joke)
- assuming anything that’s not heteronormative is a sign of a mental health condition
- believing anal sex is only for people who identify as gay
- “slut shaming” women (or shaming anyone engaging in consensual sexual behavior)
- victim-blaming for sexual assault
- advocating for punishment or violence toward sex workers or LGBTQIA+ people
- considering sex and sexuality to be “dirty,” “sinful,” or other negative adjectives
- referring to heterosexuality and being cisgender as “normal,” “natural,” or “regular”
- making negative comments about another person’s body, partner, style, or identity
How do you...
