GE1 - Understanding The Self

JUDE ANGELO B. GEMINO

Instructor I, PSU Bayambang Campus
Teacher, PSU Laboratory High School
Chapter 2:
Unpacking The Self
 Physical Self

CHAPTER 2: UNPACKING THE SELF(Physical Self)

 What is the Physical Self?

 The Physical Self is the tangible, observable

aspect of our identity, made up of physical
traits such as:
 Sex: Male or Female.
 Height: Tall, short, or average.
 Weight: Thin, heavy, or average.
 Complexion: Fair, dark, or in-between.
 Hair: Long, short, curly, straight, or bald.
 Facial features: Eye shape, nose structure, lip shape.
When is a person considered beautiful?
What is the socially accepted standard of
beauty?

Usually, only the physical features such as

the face and body figure are considered as
the bases of beauty.
THE IMPACT OF CULTURE ON BODY
IMAGE AND BEAUTY
The cultural implications of beauty are prominent in every
culture and have a strong influence on the way men and
women are perceived. Across the world, different cultural
perceptions uphold an ideal of beauty that is linked to sexual
appeal and social status.
The purpose of beauty is the feeling and consequences from
being beautiful. In ancient cultures, according to Julian
Robinson, "the enhancement and beautifying of the human
form by various means appeared to be an inborn human trait-
an essential part of our genetic makeup and an expression of
our psyche."
THE CONCEPT OF BEAUTY IN DIFFERENT
CULTURES

"Beauty is not one's own, but a

reflection of one's culture.“
Every culture has its own standard of beauty, often
linked to social status, sexual appeal, and even
health.
In the Philippines, we
see our standard of
beauty everywhere, in
magazines, televisions
and billboard ads. Just
as we have a unique
cultural perception of
beauty, so do other
cultures and peoples.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKX8RyRSsk4
Face Tattoos

 Tattooing the chin and lips of Māori women of New Zealand is considered
beautiful. This tradition has been around for centuries, and consists of patterns
called Ta-Mako in black or dark blue ink on the woman’s face. Ta-Mako tattoos
are also a public declaration of one’s membership in the Māori tribe.
Decorated Skin

 Instead of accessorizing with extravagant jewelry, women in India turn to nose

rings, bindis and henna to make themselves more attractive for festivals and
celebrations, like weddings. Brides in particular will often wear a dot of red
powder on the face known as akumkum to look more beautiful.
Long Earlobes

To the Masai tribe of Kenya, long, stretched earlobes are the

ideal for both men and women. They are known to shave
their heads and use everything from elephant tusks to twigs to
pierce and stretch their lobes to become more attractive.
Long Necks

 Long, giraffe-like necks are the ultimate sign of beauty and female
elegance to the Kayan tribe. At 5 years old, Kayan women start priming
their necks with heavy brass rings. Each year, more coils are added,
pushing down their shoulders and creating the effect of a longer neck. The
rings in this centuries-old ritual can weigh up the 22 pounds.
Pale Skin

 Women in many Asian countries avoid the sun at all costs simply
because pale skin is the ultimate sign of beauty and desirability.
Contrary to Western culture, where ladies are keen to get a tan during
the summer, tan is the least popular color – especially in Korea.
Full Figures

 In Mauritania, females with full figures are considered incredibly beautiful, and think
women are considered physically undesirable. Mauritanian parents will even send their
girls to “Fat camps,” where the girls would eat up to 16,000 calories a day to prepare for
marriage. On top of that, stretch marks are considered a bonus, and even more
beautiful.
Body Scar
 Scarification of the body is a practice, specifically among populations with dark skin
too dark to show tattoos. The Karo tribe of Ethiopia scar men and women’s torsos
and chests to assert social status.

Men’s scars mark the number of enemies killed in battles, while women’s scars represent
sensuality and appeal. Although less practiced today, some indigenous groups with little
contact with the modern world continue these kinds of beauty rituals.
 Lip Plate
 Suri people of Ethiopia find Once the piercing is in place, the lip
beauty represented in is stretched around a clay plate.
When it is time to find a husband,
women’s lip plates. When a this lip plate guides the dowry
girl reaches puberty, her process. Plates are seen as both a
bottom teeth are removed sign of beauty and a measure of a
to make way for a piercing woman’s value in cattle. Larger
in the lower lip. plates signal a more valuable and
desired woman.
Foot Binding
Despite being ban in the 1940’s, foot binding was a huge part of Chinese culture. The
process of foot binding included breaking all of the toes and bending them backwards
against of the sole of the foot, and then binding them in place with a tight fabric wrapping.
The result was small and petite feet which is considered highly attractive in China.
Monobrows

 While Filipino women always want their brows to be on fleek by plucking or

shaving, the women of Tajikistan embrace their natural eyebrows, and will
even draw on them to make it appear that they have a monobrow. I guess
monobrows are in style in Tajikistan.
THE INFLUENCE OF MEDIA ON THE
ADOLESCENT’S UNDERSTANDING OF BEAUTY

 Modern media, especially social media, creates a

narrow standard of beauty: thin, young, and flawless.
 The "Thin Ideal" dominates most media, especially in fashion and
entertainment.
 Statistical Impact: Viewing media that portrays idealized images
can lower self-esteem in over 80% of adolescents after just 60
minutes.
 The pressure to conform to these ideals often leads to body
dissatisfaction, eating disorders, and mental health issues.
What is Body Image?

Definition: Body image is how you perceive your physical appearance,

including whether you feel attractive and how you think others view you.
Two Key Components:
Perceptual Component: How you see your body size, shape, and physical
features.
Evaluative Component: How you feel about those attributes—whether you
feel proud or dissatisfied with your body.
Impact on Self-Perception: A negative body image can lead to lower self-
esteem and influence behaviors such as chronic dieting and exercise
obsession.
The Link Between Body Image and Self-
Esteem
 Self-Esteem: How much you value yourself and how
much you believe others value you.
 Connection to Body Image:
 A healthy body image contributes to strong self-esteem.
 Negative body image leads to poor self-worth and mental
health challenges.
 Study Reference: Jung and Lee (2006): People with lower body
image often have lower self-esteem.
 Example: Someone might be objectively healthy, but if
their body image is negative, their self-esteem will suffer.
Practical Strategies for Positive Self-
Esteem
 Tips for Improving Self-Esteem:
1. Focus on your strengths and skills, rather than physical
appearance alone.
2. Challenge negative thoughts about your body.
3. Practice self-acceptance: Appreciate the uniqueness of
your body shape and size.
4. Avoid comparing yourself to unrealistic media portrayals.
5. Give yourself daily compliments that are specific and
meaningful.
 The physical self is central to how we perceive
ourselves.
Cultural and media influences heavily shape our
understanding of beauty
Body image and self-esteem are deeply
interconnected, and it's crucial to develop a positive
view of both.
Celebrate your unique beauty and embrace the
diversity of beauty around the world.
 Sexual Self

CHAPTER 2: UNPACKING THE SELF(The Sexual Self)

Why Sexuality Education Shouldn't Be a
Taboo
 Sexuality is a Normal Part of Life:
Sexuality is an integral part of human development, and
understanding it is essential for physical and mental well-being.
 Challenges for Young People:
Many young people receive confusing, conflicting, or incomplete
information about sex and relationships, especially during the
critical transition from childhood to adulthood.
 Growing Demand for Reliable Information:
As young people face complex issues like gender identity, sexual
health, and relationships, the demand for accurate, reliable
information has increased.
Consequences of Inadequate
Sexuality Education
• Vulnerability to Harmful Behaviors:
Without proper education, young people are more likely to
engage in risky sexual behaviors or become victims of sexual
exploitation and abuse.
• Health Risks:
Increased chances of unintended pregnancies, HIV, and
other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can have long-
lasting impacts on health and well-being.
• Gender Inequality and Violence:
A lack of education also perpetuates gender-based violence
and inequality, as youth may not be equipped to navigate
issues related to consent, respect, and boundaries in
relationships.
Empowering Youth with Sexuality
Education
• Informed Decision-Making:
Comprehensive education equips young people with the
knowledge to make informed, responsible decisions about
sex and relationships, helping them navigate their sexuality
safely and respectfully.
• Improved Health Outcomes:
It reduces the risk of STIs, unintended pregnancies, and fosters
a better understanding of consent and healthy relationships.
• Promoting Equality and Respect:
Sexuality education encourages gender equality by teaching
respect, consent, and the importance of mutual respect in all
relationships.
 Development of Sexual Characteristics
Primary Sexual Characteristics:
Refers to the reproductive organs themselves (e.g., ovaries, testes). These changes
signal the beginning of reproductive capability.
For Females:
• First Menarche (First Menstrual Period):
• Signals the release of mature eggs (ovulation).
• Typically occurs between ages 10-15 (average: 12 years).
For Males:
• First Spermarche (First Ejaculation of Mature Sperm):
• Indicates reproductive maturity.
• Typically occurs between ages 12-16 (average: 13 years).
• Penis and Testes Growth:
• Enlargement starts between ages 9-14, reaching adult size by around age
14.
 Note: The timing of these changes varies for each individual.
 Secondary Sexual Characteristics
What Are Secondary Sexual Characteristics?
These are physical changes resulting from hormonal shifts during puberty.
Common in Both Genders:
Height Growth: Accelerated bone growth due to growth hormones.
Sweat and Sebaceous Glands: Increased activity, leading to acne and
pimples.
Hair Growth: In the underarm and pubic areas.
Differences in Timing:
Girls typically experience these changes faster than boys.
Hormones (testosterone in boys, estrogen in girls) drive specific changes in
each gender.
THE HUMAN REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
 The Male Reproductive System

The purpose of the organs of the male reproductive system is

to perform the following functions:
To produce, maintain, and transport sperm (the male
reproductive cells) and protective fluid (semen)
To discharge sperm within the female reproductive tract
during sex
To produce and secrete male sex hormones responsible
for maintaining the male reproductive system
 The Female Reproductive System
The female reproductive organs are located near the
lateral walls of the pelvic cavity. It is designed to carry out
several functions.
It produces the female egg cells necessary for
reproduction, called the ova or oocytes.
The system is designed to transport the ova to the site
of fertilization.
Conception
Menstruation
Production of female hormones
Human Reproduction
THE SEXUAL RESPONSE CYCLE
THE CHEMISTRY OF ATTRACTION, LOVE
AND ATTACHMENT
 Lust: The Foundation of Reproduction

 Purpose: Driven by sexual desire to fulfill the

biological need to reproduce.
 Hormones Involved:
 Testosterone: Increases libido in both men and women.
 Estrogen: Peaks around ovulation, mildly increasing sexual
motivation in women.
 Brain Region: Hypothalamus stimulates production
of these hormones.
Attraction: The Thrill of Falling in Love

 Purpose: Fosters pair bonding by creating intense focus

on a romantic partner.
 Hormones Involved:
 Dopamine: Triggers pleasure, reward, and motivation (euphoria,
excitement).
 Norepinephrine: Increases energy, heart rate, alertness, and
readiness for action.
 Serotonin: Likely decreases, contributing to obsessive thinking
about the partner.
 Effect: Exhilarating feelings, loss of sleep/appetite,
obsessive thoughts.
Attachment: Building Lasting Bonds

 Purpose: Ensures long-term commitment, facilitating

stable family units and child-rearing
 Hormones Involved:
 Oxytocin: "Cuddle hormone" that promotes bonding and
intimacy.
 Vasopressin: Involved in long-term monogamous bonds
and loyalty.
 Effect: Emotional intimacy, long-term connection,
desire to nurture and protect partner.
Understanding Diversity in Human
Sexuality
 Diversity: Includes race, religion, physical/mental ability, socio-
economic status, and sexual/gender diversity.
 Sexuality: Refers to sexual feelings and attractions. It’s a core part of
identity and can evolve over time.
 Key Terms:
 Sex: Assigned at birth (male, female, intersex) based on physical traits.
 Sexual Orientation: Emotional and sexual attraction (e.g., heterosexual,
bisexual, homosexual).Gender Identity: Internal sense of gender (female,
male, both, neither) which may not match sex assigned at birth.
 Gender Expression: How gender is outwardly expressed through
appearance, behavior, and pronouns (he, she, they).
SOGIE and the LGBTQ+ Spectrum

 SOGIE: Stands for Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and

Gender Expression, essential aspects of everyone’s identity.
 LGBTQ+ Acronym: Represents a broad spectrum of sexual
and gender identities, including:
 LGBTQ2S+: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Two-Spirit,
plus others not explicitly listed.
 The "+" recognizes additional identities, such as asexual, intersex,
and non-binary.
 Breaking Stereotypes: Challenging rigid beliefs about sex and
gender allows for inclusivity and respect for all sexual and
gender minorities.
Getting to Know Your Sexual Identity
 Sexual Identity: How you view and express your
sexuality; it’s part of who you are and how you present
yourself to others.
 Sexual Identity vs. Sexual Orientation:
 Sexual Identity: How you see yourself.
 Sexual Orientation: Who you are sexually or romantically
attracted to.
 Fluidity of Sexual Identity: Your sexual identity may not
always match your sexual orientation. It can change
over time as you learn more about yourself.
 Ongoing Discovery: Sexual orientation and identity can
evolve throughout life; it’s a personal journey.
 Sexual Health and STDs/STIs: Key Facts
 Global Youth Demographics: Over 25% of the world’s population is
aged 10-24, with 86% living in developing countries.
 Adolescent Pregnancy:
 12 million girls aged 15-19 and 777,000 girls under 15 give birth annually
in developing regions.
 10 million unintended pregnancies occur each year among girls 15-
19.Complications during pregnancy are a leading cause of death for
15-19-year-olds globally.
 Unsafe Abortions: Of 5.6 million annual abortions in this age group,
3.9 million are unsafe, leading to serious health risks.
 Health Risks for Adolescent Mothers: Higher risks of eclampsia and
systemic infections; infants face increased risks of low birth weight
and preterm delivery.
 HIV/AIDS Impact: 50% of new HIV infections occur among
individuals aged 15-24.
 Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
 STDs (or STIs) are infections passed  Causes:
through sexual contact, including  Bacteria: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis
vaginal, anal, or oral sex.  Viruses: HPV, Genital Herpes,

 Common Symptoms: May  HIVParasites: Trichomoniasis

include:  Risk Factors:

 Sores or bumps on genitals or in the  Unprotected sex
oral/rectal area  Multiple or changing partners

 Painful/burning urination  Sharing needles/syringes

 Having another STI
 Discharge (from the penis or
unusual vaginal discharge)  Most Common STDs:
 Unusual vaginal bleeding  Chlamydia,
 Genital Herpes,
 Pain during sex
 Gonorrhea,
 Sore, swollen lymph nodes
 Hepatitis B,
 Lower abdominal pain, fever, rash  HIV/AIDS, Syphilis,
 Trichomoniasis
Teenage Pregnancy: A Global Concern
 Global Statistics:
 21 million girls aged 15–19 in developing regions become pregnant each year.
 Approximately 12 million of these pregnancies result in live births.
 3 million teenage girls undergo unsafe abortions annually, leading to health complications or
death
 .Health Risks:
 Complications during pregnancy and childbirth are the second leading cause of death
among girls aged 15–19.
 Limited access to quality health care exacerbates these risks.
 Barriers to Contraception:
 Knowledge gaps and misconceptions about contraceptive methods.
 Restrictions based on age/marital status, health worker bias, and lack of youth-friendly
services.
 Financial constraints, transportation issues, and lack of autonomy in decision-making.
 Philippines Context:
 Teenage pregnancy rate decreased from 10% (2008) to 9% (2017).In 2016, 203,085 live births
by mothers aged 10-19; reduced to 183,000 in 2018.The Philippines has one of the highest
adolescent birth rates in ASEAN at 47 births/1,000 women aged 15-19.
Family Planning and Responsible
Parenthood
Understanding family planning as a vital
aspect of reproductive health and
responsible parenthood.
Emphasizing the importance of having the
desired number of children at the right
time.
Importance of Family Planning

 Benefits of Family Planning

• For Mothers:
• Health Recovery: Regains health after delivery.
• Time Management: More time for family and personal development.
• Emotional Support: Provides attention to husband and children.
• For Children:
• Healthy Environment: Healthy mothers raise healthy children.
• Love and Care: Children receive the love and attention they deserve.
• For Fathers:
• Reduced Burden: Lightens financial and emotional responsibilities.
• Quality Time: Allows time for personal growth and family engagement.
Family Planning Methods Overview

 Types of Family Planning Methods

1. Natural Family Planning (NFP)
1. Identifying fertile days to avoid unprotected intercourse.
2. Suitable for diverse populations with various beliefs.
2. Artificial Birth Control
1. Involves modern contraceptive methods to prevent unintended pregnancies.
2. Options include pills, patches, rings, IUDs, and surgical methods.
Natural Family Planning Techniques

 Natural Contraceptive Options

• Abstinence: 100% effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs.
• Withdrawal (Coitus Interruptus): Male-controlled method to prevent sperm
contact with the egg.
• Calendar Methods: Calculating fertile days based on menstrual cycle
length.
• Symptom-Based Methods: Monitoring cervical mucus and temperature
changes.
• Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM): Effective breastfeeding method for
contraception during the first 6 months post-delivery.
Artificial Birth Control Methods

 Common Artificial Birth Control Methods

• Oral Contraceptives: Daily hormonal pills to prevent ovulation.
• Depo-Provera: Injection providing protection for up to 12 weeks.
• Contraceptive Patch: Hormone-releasing patch worn on the skin for three
weeks.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD): Device inserted into the uterus to prevent
fertilization.
• Implanon: Implant providing protection for up to three years.
• Condoms (Male and Female): Barrier methods protecting against both
pregnancy and STIs.
 Understanding family planning and responsible
parenthood is crucial for the health and well-
being of both parents and children. By educating
ourselves about the options available, we can
make informed decisions that lead to healthier
families and stronger communities.

God bless sa inyong midterm exams.

Disappear.