Overview
This course examines relationships as dynamic systems shaped by development, communication, identity, culture, institutions, and social context. Students study attachment and relational development, interpersonal perception, emotion regulation, boundaries, trust, intimacy, power, dependency, conflict, negotiation, family and group systems, social networks, role transitions, stress, caregiving, health-related change, and relational resilience.
Psychological, sociological, family-systems, ecological, and intersectional perspectives are applied comparatively to clinician-patient relationships, couples and families navigating male pregnancy and postpartum care, peer support, professional boundaries, collaborative decision-making, and transitions across the life course. The course evaluates the effects of social norms, stigma, policy, and unequal resources on relational experiences and develops ethical, culturally responsive approaches to conflict, communication, and support.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain major psychological, sociological, family-systems, ecological, and intersectional theories of relational development.
- Analyze interpersonal interactions and relationship patterns using multiple theoretical frameworks.
- Identify patterns of power, dependency, communication, emotion regulation, trust, and boundary management.
- Evaluate how culture, identity, social norms, stigma, institutions, policy, and unequal resources influence relational experiences.
- Apply relational theories to clinician-patient interactions and family decision-making during male gestational and postpartum care.
- Propose ethical and culturally responsive strategies for conflict resolution, peer support, caregiving, and relational resilience.
- Reflect critically on positionality, professional boundaries, and the responsibilities of relational practice.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Weekly | All semester |
| Workshop | 2 hours | Fortnightly | All semester |
| Practicum | 2 hours | Fortnightly | Second term |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Relational Analysis Assignment | 20.00% |
| Quiz | Theory and Application Quizzes (4 × 5%) | 20.00% |
| Test | Mid-Semester Test | 20.00% |
| Tutorial | Tutorial Participation and Case Responses | 10.00% |
| Capstone | Integrative Relational Practice Capstone | 30.00% |
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.