Writing Assignment #3
Due via d2l by 1:50pm on Fri. Apr. 22, 2016

In this section of the course, we have discussed the social construction of sexuality and contemporary patterns of courtship, often described as “hooking up.” Use the readings and lectures from Units 14 and 15 to complete the assignment, and look up other information as needed.

1. Research on sexuality often refers to the normative social construction of sexuality in the United States as “heteronormativity.” Explain what this is and why it is considered a basic social institution. Describe how this institution organizes desire, sexual expression, and emotional support in this society. Incorporate examples from the readings to illustrate how heterosexuality is both normative and compulsory. (40 points) Approximately 3-4 paragraphs.

2. One feature of institutionalized heterosexuality in the United Sates is different expectations/roles for men and women. Use materials from readings/films to illustrate and describe some of these gender differences. Use evidence from the readings to give a brief explanation for why these differences occur and persist. (40 points) Approximately 3-4 paragraphs.

3. One change in contemporary sexuality from the mid-20th Century is the change in courtship patterns from formal dating to hooking up for both other-sex and same-sex couples. What is your definition of a “hookup”? (20 points) Approximately 1-2 paragraphs.

4. Based on the article by Armstrong, Hamilton and England (“Is Hooking Up Bad for Women”), what are the advantages and disadvantages of hookups versus relationships for heterosexual women? (30 points) Approximately 2-3 paragraphs.

5. Reflect on your own experience, that of others that you know (heterosexuality and/or LGBTQ), and media representations. How is the hook-up pattern of courtship better or worse than the dating pattern of courtship? Would it be useful to revive and reshape the dating “script”? Why or why not? Give a concrete example to support your argument about the relative merits of each system – you can make it anonymous or use an example of someone else that you know rather than a personal one. (40 points) Approximately 3-4 paragraphs.

6. Some people describe dating as a “lost social script.” How would you ask someone on a date if you had to do it in person (not by text or email)? Where would you meet the person and where would you go? (10 points) Approximately 1 paragraph.

 
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