Page 202 - Nursing: The Philosophy and Science of Caring

a dmi ni st ering sacr e d nu rs i ng a ct s
and loving. When explored and experienced without shame, the raw
energy of eroticism can “elevate the human body and spirit into sen-
sations of ecstasy, even producing altered states of consciousness at
times” (Myss 1996:143). Thus, this basic human need is one to honor
and celebrate, not oppress or ignore. Assisting another with honoring
this basic need can be a healing act in itself, helping self and other to
dwell in all aspects of one’s human condition with high regard, respect,
and even awe. As such, it opens up avenues for deeper levels of trust,
relatedness, openness, and caring for both self and other.

signifiCanCe of tHe sexuality need for Caritas NursiNg
• The whole person is expressed through one’s sexuality; sexual-
ity is not separate from the whole person, personality, or self-
expression. It is important to honor its expression as well as
assess this need, along with other human needs, to help the per-
son be-in-right-relation with self and other.
• The sexuality need is interdependent on psychological-social
development as well as religious and sociocultural values, beliefs,
and practices.
• Sexual gratification and fulfillment are related to a man’s or a
woman’s confidence and pleasure in his or her self-concept and
masculinity or femininity.
• Sexual fulfillment culminates and grows throughout life as one
is able to enter into and sustain an intimate, loving relationship
with another person.
• The essence of one’s sexuality is evidenced in how one relates to
self and other; sexual need and sexual expression are interwoven
with one’s work, play, and life force.
• Conflicting and often extreme norms and myths about sex are
put forth in contemporary culture and the media. The two sex-
ual codes considered universal are (1) the expectation and right
that sexual relations will occur between marital/significant part-
ners and (2) the prohibition against incestuous relations between
parent and child and between siblings.
• Sexual behavior becomes a matter of concern for individuals or
groups when it violates or is in conflict with cherished social-
cultural expectations and values.

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