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Human Sexuality
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Human Sexuality
A Well-Being Approach


Courses:
Human Sexuality

June 2026 | 472 pages | SAGE Publications, Inc
Human Sexuality: A Well-Being Approach broadens the focus of sexuality education from illness prevention to holistic well-being. Author Theodore R. Burnes combines rigorous science from multiple research areas with up-to-date examples and stories, presenting key concepts in plain language that speaks to today's students. By showing how sexuality evolves over the lifespan, exploring cultural differences, and promoting openness, Human Sexuality fosters student engagement and discussion.

Sage Vantage Learning Platform
This text is offered in Sage Vantage, an intuitive learning platform that integrates quality Sage textbook content with assignable multimedia activities and auto-graded assessments to drive student engagement and ensure accountability. Unparalleled in its ease of use and built for dynamic teaching and learning, Vantage offers customizable LMS integration and best-in-class support.

Highlights
  • Assignable video with assessment tied to learning objectives and curated exclusively for this text brings concepts to life. Watch a sample video now.
  • NEW! An AI Literacy module prepares students to engage confidently with today's AI tools through an interactive, outcomes-focused experience—with minimal instructor lift and no course redesign required. Available exclusively in Sage Vantage and written by professors who teach and publish about AI, the AI Information Literacy, Academic Integrity, and Responsible AI Use integrates video, data driven examples, applied activities, Knowledge Checks, and built-in assessments that help instructors track student understanding. Focused on strengthening critical thinking, the module teaches students how to evaluate AI outputs for accuracy and bias while developing responsible prompting strategies that support academic success without compromising students' intellectual growth.

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Engage students with the most up-to-date information on human sexuality! This book uses current events...to gain students' attention and make topics...relevant to each individual's unique experiences.

Professor Banafshe Sharifian-Attar
CSULB Health Sciences
Review

This text is a daring start to acknowledging a new century of sexual expression.

Professor Sorah Dubitsky
Florida International University
REVIEW

The textbook does a good job of covering the content in an inclusive way that will make all readers feel comfortable. It is clear that the author was careful and considerate in his drafting of this textbook, and I believe he has been successful in bringing something new and fresh to the classroom.

Professor Sativa Banks, MPH, CHES
University of Toledo
Review

The approach of this book is welcoming and speaks to the complexities of sexual attitudes and behaviors. Excellent subject material for all groups.

Professor Christopher K. Bass, PhD.
Clark Atlanta University
Review

I appreciate the learning checks and critical thinking exercises throughout the chapters. This text really gives students the opportunity to think about and apply the material.

Professor Lisa Welling
Oakland University
Review

Each chapter opens with thought-provoking questions to get the students thinking about the chapter ahead.

Professor Pardess Mitchell, Ed.D.
Harper College
Review

This text is far superior to any I have used before. Reading the chapters gives you the feeling that someone is talking directly to you. The flow is comfortable and easy to understand. Transitions in the chapters are seamless.

Professor Terri L. Frazee M.S. LPC
Northeastern State University
Review

As the research on sexual health advances and allows us to better understand our own reproductive and sexual health, corresponding texts should do the same. This textbook fills that need in a way that is clear, easy to understand, inclusive, and comprehensive.

Professor Sarah Kershner, MPH, PhD
Francis Marion University
Review

A welcome addition to any Human Sexuality course. Well written and researched, timely and topical.

Professor James Phelan, MA.Ed, CSW
Methodist University
Review

This textbook is current and takes an inclusive, research-based approach to human sexuality, providing faculty and students an in-depth overview.

Professor Kristin Maytubby
Bakersfield College
Review
Key features
  • This text is available in Sage Vantage, an intuitive learning platform that integrates quality Sage textbook content with assignable multimedia activities and auto-graded assessments to drive student engagement and ensure accountability. Unparalleled in its ease of use and built for dynamic teaching and learning, Vantage offers customizable LMS integration and best-in-class support.
    • NEW! An AI Literacy module prepares students to engage confidently with today’s AI tools through an interactive, outcomes-focused experience—with minimal instructor lift and no course redesign required. Available exclusively in Sage Vantage and written by professors who teach and publish about AI, the AI Information Literacy, Academic Integrity, and Responsible AI Use module integrates video, data driven examples, applied activities, Knowledge Checks, and built-in assessments that help instructors track student understanding. Focused on strengthening critical thinking, the module teaches students how to evaluate AI outputs for accuracy and bias while developing responsible prompting strategies that support academic success without compromising students' intellectual growth.
    • Demystifying Sexuality Video Activities clarify key concepts with helpful video explanations.
    • Reading Activities introduce students to career pathways available to people with academic training in human sexuality.
    • Data Activities engage students' ability to understand visual displays and reason about data.
    • Knowledge Checks and Chapter Quizzes offer instructors multiple ways to engage and assess student learning.
  • Learning Objectives: Focus students on core concepts and important information at the start of each chapter.
  • Ask Yourself... Questions invite students to consider key issues that they will encounter in the chapter.
  • Something to Think About... Questions ask students to think critically about key issues throughout each chapter.
  • Apply It to Yourself Activities: Include writing prompts, group discussions, and tasks to apply material practically.
  • Spotlight Sections: Highlight current significant topics and real-world trends in human sexuality.
  • Pathways and Careers: Feature distinguished researchers or practitioners, their career paths, and major findings in the field.
  • In-Depth Vignettes: Provide critical thinking opportunities and applied examples of core concepts.
  • Empirical Study Descriptions: Support theories and models with research findings for analysis.
  • Reviewing Key Concepts Sections: Summarize key theories and concepts linked to learning objectives.
  • "Fact or Fiction?" Self-Check Questions: Help students assess their learning and prepare for exams. These are aligned with learning objectives.
  • Discussion Questions: Facilitate deeper exploration of chapter topics.
  • Key Terms and Glossary: Offer definitions for comprehensive learning.

Sample Materials & Chapters

Preface, Chapters 1-2