Sexuality

Human beings were created with many dimensions, one of which is our unique sexual nature. As men and women, we are physical, intellectual, emotional, relational and spiritual beings. It's these dimensions that distinguish us from the rest of creation.

 

Our integrated nature means that intimate sexual expression profoundly affects all dimensions of our being. Many levels of sexual expression are possible between men and women. One important expression is friendship; the sexual differences between men and women enhance meaningful, warm and healthy relationships. A second important area of sexual expression is intimacy between husband and wife.

 

Family life teaching and sexual education about sexual guidelines are meant to protect us from disease, fear, exploitation and dehumanization. But education and protective techniques alone are not enough. Our society needs to understand and acknowledge that there are compelling emotional, philosophical, medical, sociological and historical reasons for practicing abstinence before marriage and fidelity within marriage.

Specific Issues

Transgender Identification

The American Academy of Medical Ethics (AAME) affirms the historic understanding of humankind as consisting of two sexes, male and female. The AAME has concerns about recent usage of the term “gender” to emphasize an identity other than one’s biological sex, that is, a sense of self based on subjective feelings or desires of identifying more strongly with the opposite sex or with some combination of male and female.
Photo: Pixabay

Homosexuality

Homosexuality has negative effects on the practicing individual and society. Compared to the general population, homosexuals are at an elevated risk for a variety of adverse health and mental health outcomes. The Gay Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) describes the following detrimental effects associated with same-sex sexual practice: higher rates of HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, depression/anxiety, hepatitis, sexually transmitted illnesses (anal papilloma/HPV, gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia), certain cancers, alcohol abuse, tobacco use, eating disorders and (in subsets) obesity.