Sexologi

Sexologi is the scientific study of human sexuality, encompassing biological, psychological, social, and cultural aspects of sexual development, behavior, orientation, relationships, health, and reproduction. It aims to understand how sexuality shapes individual experiences and social life.

The field is interdisciplinary, drawing on psychology, medicine, sociology, anthropology, public health, and education. Researchers use surveys, interviews, physiological measures, and clinical observations to study sexual development, orientation, gender identity, sexual response, function, and disorders.

Historically, sexology emerged in the late 19th and 20th centuries, with early figures who described sexual variation, followed by researchers in the mid-20th century who documented sexual behavior in large populations. The field has shifted from pathologizing non-normative sexuality toward a more inclusive, rights-based perspective on sexual health.

Key areas include sexual education and health promotion, sexual function and dysfunction, contraception and fertility, gender and sexual identities, consent and sexuality in relationships, and culturally informed studies of sexuality. Methods include epidemiological surveys, qualitative research, clinical assessment, and therapeutic approaches in sex therapy and counseling.

Professionals in sexology may work in universities, clinics, public health agencies, or educational settings. They may be involved in research, education, clinical work, or policy development. Ethics emphasize privacy, consent, cultural sensitivity, and the promotion of sexual wellbeing and safety.