Teen Sexuality-Something to Think About
Believe it or not, teenagers and pre-teens are just as hesitant to approach you about sexual topics as you might be to approach them. It is normal for adolescents to have questions about sex however, and you can be the primary source of information and insight about sex if you plan things in advance.
As a parent it is vital that you work with your teen to help them understand that sexual development is a vital part of health, as important as any other aspect of their well being.
Sexual behavior may have implications not only on a teen's emotional well being, but also on their physical well being.
“A Teenager's Sexuality is not Simply Related to Their Gender Sexuality is in fact much more complicated. It may include the following:”
“Gender - Most teens will form a gender 'identity.' This is best described as how an individual 'feels' about themselves, meaning whether they feel more masculine or feminine, sensitive or insensitive. Gender identity may be mixed, very strongly one way or the other.”
“Anatomy - This is a very simple concept. Basically, we are all anatomically either 'male' with a penis and testicles or 'female' with a vagina and ovaries. Anatomy is largely responsible for ones gender identity, sometimes influenced by hormones. ”
“Sexual Orientation - Teenagers just like adults will have very powerful affinity and emotional attractions toward others. For many this orientation is heterosexual, meaning boys are attracted to girls and vice versa. However, you may find that your teenager is attracted to the same sex or both sexes. This may be transient or permanent and may depend on a number of factors including anatomy, gender identity, society and environmental factors.”
Sexual Development
Sexual development actually begins during the pre-teen years. During this time your child's body produces hormones that initiate puberty. Breast development, the appearance of facial hair in boys and growth of hair under the arms and in the genital area are hallmarks of puberty.
Puberty also involves emotional changes. During the adolescent years pre-teens and teens start feeling attraction toward others. The desire to be close to others intimately is a natural part of the sexual development process.
The attractions that teens feel vary. Teens may find that they are attracted to someone of the same sex for a brief time, and then find they are attracted to members of the opposite sex, whether exclusively or not. The opposite can also occur.
These varying transitions can be confusing for both teens and parents, but it is vital to acknowledge them as part of the growth process.
A majority of teens will identify themselves as heterosexual, though some will identify with homosexuality and still others will proclaim themselves bisexual. It often takes many years for one to grow into their sexuality.
During this time, many teens feel confused over their feelings and attractions. It is vital during the period of sexual development that teens have the support and understanding as well as guidance of family members.
Most teens will seek out a trusted adult and peers so they have someone to talk to openly about their fears, concerns and feelings. It is important to let teens know that it is perfectly normal to have a desire to experiment with sexual activity during this time.
However, it is equally important to educate teens of how such activity may affect their health and the health of others.
During the teen years, it is vital that you discuss with your teen how their blossoming sexuality may impact their health and the health of others.
As teens continue to grow and mature, they will start forming ideas and opinions regarding their sexuality. The more accurate and honest information they have regarding sex and sexuality, the more likely they will be to make good and safe choices about intimacy and physical relationships.
As teens grow into young adults, they will continue to be better able to make intimacy choices that are in their best interests, and less likely to cause problems for themselves or others.
Most adults recommend that teens not jump into sexual activity too early, because it takes time for them to become fully aware of how their sexuality can impact them and the lives of those around them.
As a parent, part of your responsibility will be to help your teen understand the impact of sex and sexuality as well as their decisions on their lives and the lives of others.
Teen Sexuality | Teen Sexuality Part 2