Sexology refers to the study of human sexuality and sexual health. The approach is scientific and excludes non-scientific discourses about sex such as in the social sciences. It focuses on sexual attraction, behavior, and function. Topics include gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual development, and activity, as well as sexual dysfunctions and disorders.
There are many notable names in sexology. Sigmund Freud developed his theory on the stages of sexual development. Alfred Kinsey put out his Kinsey studies and established the Institute for Sex Research in Bloomington, Indiana. Continued progress in the field of sexology has helped liberalize social attitudes towards homosexuality. The field also helps understand and control sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
