3 ECVET/ECTS / EQF Level 7 / 1st year of study – STS
Module Description:
This module explores key aspects of partnerships, including the development and maintenance of intimacy, attachment, dynamics in partner interactions, and challenges faced by couples. Special focus is placed on recognising and understanding different forms of partnerships, including monogamous, non-monogamous, and alternative relationships, and their impact on sexual health and individual wellbeing. Sociocultural and legal aspects of sexuality and partnerships are also analysed.
The module includes:
- Attachment and Intimacy – theoretical models of attachment and their impact on the quality of partnerships and sexual connection.
- Dynamics of Partnerships – patterns of communication, conflict, and relationship issues.
- Infidelity and Betrayal – risk factors, consequences, and therapeutic approaches when working with couples facing infidelity.
- Non-monogamous and Alternative Relationships – open relationships, polyamory, swinging, and other forms of relationships from the perspective of sexual health and wellbeing.
- Sociocultural and Legal Aspects of Sexuality – the impact of social norms, legislation, and rights in the context of sexual relationships and partnership dynamics.
- Gender Perspective in Partnerships – the role of gender roles, stereotypes, and expectations in partner interactions.
Learning Outcomes:
Competencies:
By the end of the module, students will be able to:
a) Analyse and understand different forms of partnerships and their impact on sexual health.
b) Apply theoretical models of attachment and relationship dynamics in clinical and counselling practice.
c) Critically evaluate sociocultural and legal factors shaping partnerships and sexual behaviour.
d) Recognise and intervene in challenges within partnerships, including infidelity, sexual disagreements, and intimacy conflicts.
Knowledge:
By the end of the module, students will acquire:
a) An understanding of key theoretical models of attachment and their significance for partnerships.
b) Knowledge of different forms and structures of partnerships from psychological and sociocultural perspectives.
c) Awareness of legal aspects and legislative frameworks relating to partnerships and sexuality.
d) Insight into the impact of gender roles and social norms on the quality and dynamics of partnerships.
Skills:
By the end of the module, students will develop:
a) The ability to assess partnership dynamics through clinical evaluation and interviewing.
b) Skills to facilitate conversations about intimacy and sexuality in therapeutic work with couples.
c) The ability to provide counselling support for challenges in sexual and emotional relationships.
d) The development of therapeutic strategies to support couples facing infidelity, disagreements in sexual needs, and relationship insecurities.
Assessment of Knowledge and Competencies:
The module is assessed through:
– Exercise – analysis of partner dynamics through theoretical models of attachment.
– Presentation – overview of the socio-cultural aspects of partner relationships through case studies.
– Group discussion – case analysis of infidelity and development of intervention strategies in working with couples.
Total Learning Hours:
| Total learning hours: 90 hours | Independent study (literature, assignment preparation): 30 hours |
| Contact hours (lectures, exercises, presentations, practicum, clinical practice, supervision): 50 hours | Knowledge assessment (exam and presentations): 10 hours |