Netflix and Chill: Teaching Sexual Scripts in a Sociology Classroom

Abstract

Whereas most sociologists consider sexuality a social construct, the general public tends to view it in more essentialist terms. This tendency is commonly manifested in the idea of sexual drives as internal overpowering biological forces guiding human sexual behavior. To counter this narrative, sociologists William Simon and John H. Gagnon introduced a concept of sexual scripts to demonstrate the social underpinnings of sexuality and the narratives surrounding it. Drawing on their insights, I used the popular phenomenon of “Netflix and Chill” to teach students about the socially constructed nature of human sexuality. During class time, I ask students to put together a sexual script—step-by-step instructions—on how to successfully complete Netflix and Chill. This activity teaches students about the learned aspects of our sexual behavior and is effective both for in-person and online learning environments.