Human Sexuality Honor

Science & Health

Requirements

1. What is human sexuality?

   Answer: Human sexuality is the integral dimension of the human being that involves biological, emotional, social, spiritual and relational aspects, expressing how a person experiences their body, identity, affections and relationships throughout life. — Sexuality is not limited to the sexual act nor to the genital organs; it is multidimensional, encompassing body, mind, emotions, relationships and spirituality. For Adventists, it is a divine gift that should be lived out according to biblical principles of respect, faithfulness and dignity.

2. What is the divine model for sexuality? What do the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy say about it?

   Answer: The divine model presents sexuality as a gift from God for the heterosexual couple united in marriage, lived out with faithfulness, love and mutual respect, according to Genesis 2:24, and reinforced in the writings of Ellen White on the purity and holiness of the home. — Genesis 2:18-24 establishes marriage between a man and a woman as the basis for sexual expression. Ellen White, in works such as 'The Adventist Home' and 'Messages to Young People', highlights sexuality as sacred when lived out in the marital context, with faithfulness and spiritual purpose.

3. What is biological sex? How many types are there?

   Answer: Biological sex is the classification determined by the chromosomes, reproductive organs and physical characteristics; there are two main types (male XY and female XX), in addition to rare intersex variations caused by specific genetic or hormonal conditions. — Biological sex is defined genetically at conception by the sex chromosomes (XX female, XY male), determining the reproductive organs and bodily characteristics. Intersex cases are rare biological exceptions resulting from chromosomal or hormonal variations during embryonic development.

4. Through drawings or figures selected beforehand and brought by your instructor, represent the male and female sexual organs and answer:
   • What are the internal sexual/reproductive organs?
   • What are the external sexual/reproductive organs?
   • What is the function of each of these organs?
   • Why is it so important to call these organs by their correct names?

   Answer: 1) Internal sexual/reproductive organs: in men they are the testicles, the epididymis, the vas deferens (ducts), the seminal vesicles, and the prostate. In women they are the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, and the vagina. 2) External sexual/reproductive organs: in men they are the penis and the scrotum (the sac that surrounds the testicles). In women it is the vulva, which includes the labia majora and minora and the clitoris. 3) Function of each one: in men, the testicles produce sperm and the hormone testosterone; the epididymis stores and matures the sperm; the vas deferens transports them; the seminal vesicles and the prostate produce the seminal fluid; the penis is the organ of sexual intercourse and the outlet for urine and semen; the scrotum protects and regulates the temperature of the testicles. In women, the ovaries produce the eggs and hormones (estrogen and progesterone); the fallopian tubes carry the egg and are the site of fertilization; the uterus houses and nourishes the baby during pregnancy; the vagina is the channel for sexual intercourse and through which the baby is born; the vulva protects the entrance to the internal organs. 4) Importance of calling them by their correct names: using the correct names promotes respect for one's own body, ensures a scientific and serious education, avoids embarrassment, and, above all, helps to prevent and identify situations of abuse, since the child or young person knows how to clearly name what they feel or what happened. — Correct anatomical knowledge is the foundation of healthy sex education. Naming the organs properly breaks taboos, facilitates communication with health professionals, helps in identifying medical problems, and protects children and young people in situations of abuse, since vague terms make reporting difficult.

5. What is puberty? When does it begin in men and in women? What physical and psychological changes occur?

   Answer: 1) What puberty is: a phase of transition between childhood and adolescence marked by sexual maturation and reproductive capacity. 2) When it begins: in girls (women) between 9 and 13 years of age; in boys (men) between 10 and 14 years of age. 3) Physical changes: growth spurt (height), the appearance of hair (pubic, underarm, and a beard in boys), change/deepening of the voice, development of the breasts and the start of menstruation in girls, growth of the testicles/penis and the start of nocturnal emissions in boys, oily skin/acne, and sweating. 4) Psychological changes: mood swings, search for identity and independence, greater emotional interest/attractions, self-consciousness about the body and appearance. — Puberty is triggered by hormones (estrogen, testosterone) that produce secondary sexual characteristics. Girls generally start earlier. Psychological changes include the search for identity, mood swings, and new interests, being a critical period that requires family and spiritual support.

6. What is menstruation and a nocturnal emission? At what age do they begin and when do they end?

   Answer: 1) What menstruation is: it is the monthly female bleeding caused by the shedding of the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus) when there has been no pregnancy. 2) What nocturnal emission is: it is the involuntary ejaculation that occurs during sleep in men. 3) When they begin: menstruation (menarche) begins between 9 and 15 years of age; nocturnal emission begins at puberty, around 12 to 15 years of age. 4) When they end: menstruation ceases at menopause, between 45 and 55 years of age; nocturnal emission has no fixed age to stop and can occur throughout adult life. — Menarche (the first menstruation) marks female fertility and occurs cyclically until menopause. Nocturnal emission is a normal male physiological phenomenon that regulates sperm production, more frequent in adolescence. Both are natural processes that should be understood without shame or taboos.

7. Why is genital hygiene, both male and female, important?

   Answer: Genital hygiene is essential for preventing urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, bad odor, irritations and candidiasis; it promotes comfort, self-esteem and reproductive health, and should be done daily with water and mild soap, drying well and using clean underwear. — The genital region has sensitive mucous membranes and harbors a delicate microbiota. Inadequate hygiene favors bacterial and fungal proliferation, causing infections. On the other hand, an excess of perfumed products alters the natural pH, increasing vulnerabilities. Proper cleansing is a basic health care measure and a sign of respect for the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit.

8. What is pregnancy, how does it occur and how long does it last? Make a chart showing the main characteristics of pregnancy at each month of gestation.

   Answer: Pregnancy is the development of a new being in the uterus, started by fertilization (sperm + egg in the fallopian tube) and implantation in the endometrium; it lasts about 40 weeks (9 months). Month-by-month overview: 1st month — implantation, formation of the neural tube, and the beginning of the heart; 2nd month — embryo with the beginnings of arms, legs, eyes, and internal organs; 3rd month — formed fetus, it moves, the sexes can now be distinguished; 4th month — grows rapidly, hair and nails appear, the mother feels movements; 5th month — the fetus reacts to sounds, skin covered with vernix; 6th month — lungs mature, it opens its eyes; 7th month — gains weight and fat, viable if born; 8th month — positions itself head down, bones harden; 9th month — fully formed, descends into the pelvis, ready for birth. — After fertilization, the zygote divides, forming the embryo that implants in the uterus. The 1st trimester forms vital organs; the 2nd brings movements and growth; the 3rd matures the lungs and prepares for birth. Pregnancy is a divinely planned process that requires prenatal care for the health of the mother and baby.

9. What is abortion? What are the physical and psychological consequences involved? In which cases is abortion advisable and permitted in your country?

   Answer: Abortion is the interruption of pregnancy before the fetus is viable; physical consequences include hemorrhage, infections, and infertility, and psychological ones involve guilt, depression, and anxiety. In Brazil it is permitted in three cases: rape, risk to the mother's life, and proven fetal anencephaly. — The Brazilian Penal Code authorizes abortion in three specific situations (Art. 128 and ADPF 54/2012). The Adventist Church values life from conception but recognizes ethical exceptions in extreme cases. The consequences vary according to the method and gestational age, requiring careful medical and psychological follow-up.

10. What are the roles of men and women in society and what responsibilities are assigned to them according to our culture? How have these roles changed over time up to now? Why are the stereotypes of these roles dangerous?

    Answer: 1) Roles and responsibilities of men and women in our (traditional) culture: historically, men were seen as economic providers (support, work outside the home) and women as responsible for the care of the home and children. 2) How these roles have changed over time: today there is a more equitable division — women work widely in the labor market and in public life, and men participate more in domestic tasks and in raising children, with shared responsibilities. 3) Why the stereotypes of these roles are dangerous: because they limit the individual potential of each person, generate inequality and injustice, can lead to domestic violence and oppression, and prevent each person from fully expressing the gifts and talents that God gave them. — Social roles vary by culture and era. The Bible values men and women as equal in dignity (Galatians 3:28), with complementary functions in the home. Rigid stereotypes cause discrimination, psychological suffering, and violence. Equality of opportunity respects the image of God in both sexes.

11. How can you recognize and protect yourself from possible sexual abuse and its dangers? To whom should we turn if someone (a stranger, a friend or a family member) has been abused or molested? Why is it important not to remain silent?

    Answer: Signs of abuse include inappropriate touching, requests to keep secrets, threats, gifts or favors in exchange for silence, and a feeling of discomfort/fear around someone. To protect yourself: say NO firmly, move away immediately, do not keep secrets about your own body, and tell a trusted adult. In case of abuse (by a stranger, friend, or family member), turn to parents, teachers, pastors, club leaders, the Guardianship Council (Conselho Tutelar), the Dial 100 hotline (Human Rights), or the police. It is important NOT to stay silent because: silence allows the abuse to continue and to be repeated against the victim or against others; speaking up interrupts the crime and protects other children; the abuser counts precisely on the victim's fear and shame in order not to be reported; the victim is not to blame and needs help, support, and treatment; and reporting is the path for the offender to be held accountable and for the victim to be cared for and healed physically and emotionally. — Sexual abuse is a crime that can come from acquaintances in 80% of cases. Victims are often silenced by fear or shame, but silence perpetuates the abuse. Dial 100 is the national reporting channel. Psychological follow-up is essential to overcome trauma. The Church supports victims and never protects offenders.

12. What are Sexually Transmitted Diseases? Answer the following:
    • What is HIV?
    • What is AIDS?
    • How is HIV contracted?
    • How long does it take from infection until the onset of symptoms?
    • What medical tests or examinations can be done to find out whether a person is infected?
    • What care does an HIV-positive person need? Which and how many medications do they take per day?
    • Research 5 other sexually transmitted diseases and answer the following for each one: form(s) of transmission, symptoms, causative agent, and whether there is treatment.

    Answer: Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), today called Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), are infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites, transmitted mainly through sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal, or oral) without protection (a condom). Some also pass through blood (transfusion, shared needles) or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Main examples: HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes, HPV (warts/cancer), hepatitis B and C. 1) HIV vs. AIDS: HIV is the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which attacks the defense cells (CD4 lymphocytes); AIDS is the advanced stage of the infection, when the immune system becomes very weakened and opportunistic diseases appear. Having HIV is not the same as having AIDS. 2) How it is contracted: sexual intercourse without a condom, contact with contaminated blood, and from mother to baby. 3) Symptoms: often there are no symptoms for years; sores, discharge, burning when urinating, warts, fever, and swollen lymph nodes may appear, depending on the STI. 4) Prevention: the only 100% safe way is sexual abstinence outside of marriage and conjugal fidelity (an Adventist Christian principle); the condom reduces the risk; vaccines prevent HPV and hepatitis B. 5) Treatment: bacterial ones can be cured with antibiotics; viral ones (HIV, herpes, HPV) can be controlled/treated, but there is no definitive cure. Always seek medical care. — Other STDs include syphilis (Treponema pallidum), gonorrhea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae), HPV (a virus, causes cervical cancer), genital herpes (HSV-2), and chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis). Rapid tests detect HIV within a 30-day window. Modern treatment allows a normal and undetectable-untransmittable life, but prevention (condom, fidelity) remains essential.

13. When we have a question about sexuality, who should we seek help from? Why are friends my own age 'unreliable' for this subject?

    Answer: 1) Whom to seek for help with questions about sexuality: parents, doctors, psychologists, teachers, and trained, trustworthy pastors or leaders. 2) Why friends of the same age are not very reliable on the subject: because they have the same lack of experience and maturity, they tend to repeat myths and wrong information, they can have a negative influence, they generalize personal cases as if they applied to everyone, and they spread information without a scientific or ethical basis. — Adolescents have limited and often distorted information about sexuality, obtained from unreliable sources (pornography, social media). Qualified professionals offer scientific, ethical, and personalized guidance. Parents and spiritual mentors add a moral and emotional dimension, while doctors clarify anatomical and physiological questions responsibly.

14. What is masturbation and what is the position of the Seventh-day Adventist Church on this act? What other name does Ellen White use to refer to masturbation?

    Answer: 1) What masturbation is: it is the self-stimulation of one's own genital organs with the purpose of obtaining sexual pleasure. 2) Position of the Seventh-day Adventist Church: based on the writings of Ellen White, the church considers the practice harmful physically, mentally, and spiritually, deviating from the divine purpose for sexuality. 3) Another name used by Ellen White: she referred to masturbation as the 'solitary vice' (also cited as the 'solitary sin'). — The Adventist perspective sees sexuality as a gift for marriage, with masturbation being a practice that can generate isolation, dependence, and fixations. Ellen White wrote extensively on the subject using the terms 'solitary vice' and 'solitary sin.' The guidance is to seek purity through the power of God, without destructive condemnation of the struggling adolescent.

15. What is infatuation and what is dating? When are they healthy? When are they distorted and harmful? How do you know the right moment to end a relationship? How do you end a relationship properly?

    Answer: Infatuation is an intense, sudden, and short-lived attraction, based mainly on emotions and the idealization of the other person. Dating is a relationship built with time, mutual knowledge, respect, and a serious purpose (moving toward marriage). They are HEALTHY when there is respect, honesty, fidelity, a serious purpose, mutual growth (including spiritual), purity, and the approval of the parents. They are DISTORTED and harmful when there is possessiveness, excessive jealousy, control, manipulation, isolation from friends and family, pressure or abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual), and distancing from God. How to know when to END a dating relationship: when the relationship distances you from God and from Christian principles; when there is disrespect, lies, betrayal, aggression, or control; when the relationship prevents personal and spiritual growth; when there is a lack of serious purpose and shared values; or when there is an inner peace that this is not the right relationship. How to end it PROPERLY: talk in person (not by message), with honesty, respect, and kindness; be clear about the reasons without humiliating or offending; thank them for the good time you spent together; avoid leaving 'open doors' that cause confusion; pray and seek the support of parents and leaders; and give both people time to recover, preserving the dignity of the other person. — Infatuation is an ephemeral initial phase; mature dating involves knowledge, plans, and shared principles. Signs of a healthy relationship: mutual respect, open communication, shared faith. Warning signs: excessive jealousy, control, isolation, sexual pressure. Ending it frankly, in person when possible, without offenses, is the Christian way to respect the person.