ABOUT ME
I am a sex educator, and I want to tell you about my first time…
OK… not my first-time having sex, but my first time teaching a class about Human Sexuality. Eight years ago, the previous instructor broke her leg two weeks before the start of the quarter. Everyone in my department panicked, but NO ONE was crazy… or shall we say… brave enough to step in. I was new in the department, had been a teaching assistant for this class while getting my PhD, and was eager to please — so I reluctantly “agreed” to take it on.
Which Brings Us To Today…
I teach my course “Psych 210: The Diversity of Human Sexuality“ to 1200 students each quarter. I just added a summer session, so now the enrollment is close to 4000 students each year. It is currently the most popular undergraduate offering in the entire history of the University of Washington. This content is so critical and has touched so many of my students that I am now working to bring it outside of the classroom.
My Philosophy…
is consistent with a general movement happening nationally called Sex Positivity. We’re so used to hearing about the risks and dangers associated with sex yet there are so many diverse and wonderful things to celebrate! Sex positivity encourages safety but also highlights sexual pleasure. It embraces LGBTQI+ identities and issues. It rejects shame and stigma and it acknowledging that our sexuality feeds into the very essence of our self-identity and happiness. Beyond this however, I have found that in order to be truly sex positive, sex education must be empowering. It has to be collaborative, NOT authoritative in order to promote trust and a free exchange of ideas.
I received my undergraduate degree from Cornell University in 1997, her Masters in Psychology at NYU in 2003 and her Ph.D. in Social Psychology from the University of Washington in 2009. In addition to being a professor, Nicole writes bi-weekly for Psychology Today and is a TedX speaker and frequent contributor to other publications, news sources and podcasts.
Nicole’s Writings in Psychology Today
How Playfulness Can Transform Your Love Life
Looking to revive a dying flame? Try the power of play.
How Relationships Develop Body-Image Issues
Is body image impacting your relationship? Here are some things to consider.
Don’t Believe These Five Myths About Consensual Non-Monogamy
How to separate the facts from the fiction.
7 Ways to Foster a 'Sexual Growth' Mindset
Looking to get your sex life back on track? Start with changing your mindset.
The Link Between Equality and Women's Sexual Desire
A new study sheds light on relationships, power, and sex.
10 Questions to Build Intimacy With a Partner
2. "What's something you love about me that others miss?"
Is Ethical Non-Monogamy Right For You?
New research shows that it depends on your motivation.
The Link Between Body Image, Sexual Mindfulness, and Desire
Our relationship with our body is essential to our emotional well-being.
How Attachment Style Impacts Sexual Satisfaction
Those thoughts running through your head are impacting your sex life.
How Burnout Can Affect Your Relationship
Worried that work stress is spilling over into your relationship? Here's what to look for and how to cope.
The Powerful Connection Between Kissing and Sexual Satisfaction
Looking to enhance your relationship and improve your sex life? More kissing may be the answer.
How Poor Body Image Can Undermine Sexual Satisfaction
A few ideas for breaking a sex and body image downward spiral.
The Vital Importance of Human Touch
The science of human touch and what to do if you're feeling deprived.
How to Restore Passion to a Relationship
A recent study explains how—and when it may be too much.
Why Narcissists and Psychopaths Pursue Casual Sex
Dark Triad personality types are notorious for pursuing short-term casual sex hookups. A new study explains exactly what this entails.
Some Surprising Benefits of Sexting in a Relationship
Should you hit 'send' on that sext? A new study reveals the benefits for sex and relationships, and the risks.
Why Facial Structure Could Predict Attitudes About Casual Sex
Is a person's attitude toward casual sex hidden in their face? The answer may surprise you.
5 Key New Findings About the Female Orgasm
A recent study shows that there's more to sexual satisfaction than just orgasms, and that when it comes to female sexual pleasure, the situation matters.
5 Things to Consider When Dating in a Post-Pandemic World
What will dating and sex will be like in a post-pandemic world? Here's what you need to know.
