This week, you have learned that many behaviors, such as eating, drinking and reproductive behaviors are based in biology. These same behaviors are associated with issues that affect society, such as what to do about the obesity epidemic and how to define marriage. In some parts of the world, same-sex relationships are viewed as normal and accepted while in other parts of the world, they are outlawed. But this week’s Learning Resources have shown that reproductive behavior is just another example of the biology of the brain influencing behavior.
In this Assignment, you will synthesize the research that relates to the biological basis of sexual orientation (straight, lesbian, gay, and bisexual). You will describe the biological factors, including brain regions, neurotransmitters, and genes, as well as environmental factors experienced during development, that influence sexual orientation. With that in mind, you will then describe an educational presentation that could be addressed to a middle school biology class to educate the students about the biological basis of sexual orientation.
The Assignment (2–4 pages):
First, describe the biological basis of sexual orientation, including the brain regions, neurotransmitters, and hormones that may be associated with sexual orientation. Also consider any developmental factors that may influence later sexual orientation. Include any relevant anatomical or physiological markers that seem to be associated with a particular sexual orientation.
Summarize the attached article on the biological basis of sexual orientation in enough detail that your reader will understand what was done in the study and what the results of the study were.
Finally, develop and describe a high-level overview of an educational program about the biological basis of sexual orientation. This should be appropriate to present to a middle school biology class. What would you include in this educational program? What would you not include in the educational program? How would you convey the ideas you have described in this week’s Assignment in a way that would not offend your audience, but would also minimize the giggles of young teenagers?
