Overview
This course examines the social and psychological dimensions of reproductive identity and embodied experience within Male Gestational Science, Obstetrics, and Perinatal Care. It considers how individuals understand themselves, and how they are classified and recognized by others, in relation to gestation, parenthood, healthcare, and reproductive institutions.
The course applies symbolic interactionism, identity formation, intersectionality, phenomenology, body politics, trans and queer studies, reproductive justice, family sociology, and theories of medicalization. Students analyze masculinity and femininity, stigma, belonging, healthcare encounters, media representation, workplace and legal institutions, and the effects of language on self-concept and social recognition. Attention is given to the intersections of class, race, disability, age, citizenship, religion, and relationship status, with emphasis on avoiding biological determinism in the study of identity.
Students interpret qualitative narratives and cultural representations, evaluate institutional regulation and discriminatory practices, and design respectful interview or media-analysis projects. The course develops practical frameworks for inclusive practice in healthcare, education, policy, and community settings.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply social and behavioral theories to analyze reproductive identity, embodiment, and parenthood.
- Analyze how healthcare, legal, educational, workplace, and family institutions regulate reproductive categories and social recognition.
- Interpret qualitative narratives, media representations, and institutional texts using appropriate analytical frameworks.
- Evaluate the effects of stigma, discrimination, language, and medicalization on individuals and communities.
- Design an ethically appropriate interview or media-analysis project addressing reproductive identity and embodied experience.
- Synthesize intersectional perspectives to propose inclusive practices for healthcare, education, policy, and community settings.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Weekly | All semester |
| Workshop | 2 hours | Fortnightly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Critical theory essay | 20.00% |
| Deliverable | Qualitative or media-analysis project | 25.00% |
| Tutorial | Tutorial participation and preparation | 10.00% |
| Test | In-class tests (2 × 10%) | 20.00% |
| Exam | Final examination | 25.00% |
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.