Introduction and Objectives: In the field of sexology, professionals regularly encounter incredible challenges in overcoming cultural issues that create conflict. One particular challenge is the ways in which cultural differences arise in within the context of sexuality education interventions. How does a facilitator, educator or therapist address the realities of strongly held personal beliefs while still encouraging open dialogue and promoting sexual health in group settings? When conflicts arise, sexuality educators are frequently ill-equipped to deal with the clashes, generate honest dialogue about the differences that exist, and utilize the experience as a way to acknowledge issues of power, privilege, oppression and belief. This presentation is designed to: - identify specific challenges when issues of faith beliefs, cultural norms and personal beliefs arise in group intervention settings; - provide professionals with specific intervention skills for addressing these issues when they arise. Methods: Utilizing theories addressing the transparency of power, the need for competence in cultural fluency and the desire to promote healthy sexual functioning within individuals\' unique context and personal reality, this presentation will work to identify practical skills that professionals can apply when conflicts of values and beliefs arise in sexuality interventions. Results: At the conclusion of the presentation, professionals will be able to identify the types of conflicts that arise in sexuality interventions and to apply the most appropriate and effective methods for addressing the conflict within the context of their educational or clinical intervention. Conclusions: Sexuality professionals regularly must deal with the challenges of cultural conflicts. Too often, the reaction \"in the moment\" is to shy away from or ignore the reality of strongly held beliefs in order to \"move forward\" with an educational agenda. This presentation begins to provide skills for addressing these challenges.
Conflict of Interest: None disclosed
Financial Support/Funding: None disclosed
Recorded: Sydney, Australia, April 2007
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