Download Adolescence

Adolescence
A sensitive ten years in our sexual
development
Transformation
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Sexual behaviors increase in intensity and
frequency
Sexual expression assumes great
importance
Important developments occur in a variety
of areas
The Sexual Double Standard
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Different expectations for boys and girls
Women are held to a much higher
standard
80’s meta-studies confirm continuing
vitality
But most recent evidence shows that the
gap is narrowing
Double Standard Ramifications
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Since men are viewed as conquerors,
ingressive males occasionally receive the
dreaded sissy label
On the other hand, some males get a big
charge from bragging about sexual
encounters
But for women, looking sexy is desirable,
but engaging in relations is a dilemma –
lose the guy or be labeled easy
Masturbation
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Although many are virgins, few 19 year
olds have not masturbated
Boys engage more frequently, but by their
20’s, 75% of females have given it a try
Masturbation has many benefits – gaining
self-knowledge, sexual release, etc.
Noncoital Sex
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Erotic behavior which stops just short
In particular, rates of oral sex have
increased dramatically
Widely accepted and practiced
Considered less risky, but dangers remain
But are you still a virgin? Does it really
matter?
Relationships
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Most sexual encounters take place in
ongoing relationships
Change from the Kinsey era
Numbers in relationships double from
early to mid-adolescence, up to 70%+
Even young women feel little need to
“save themselves”
But nonchalant “hook-ups” are common
Intercourse
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The problem with premarital sex
Oral sex doesn’t count?
Can the status ever be escaped without
marriage?
Rates
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Studies show a big increase in incidence
from the 50’s to 70’s
Now the trend has slowed, maybe
reversed
But first encounters have earlier
Poverty, not race or ethnicity, is the most
important factor
Health risks follow: STDs, pregnancy, ...
Why not wait?
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Curiosity
Rising hormonal levels – testosterone
Feeling ready
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# 1 answer – affection for partner
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Why do some wait?
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Strong religious beliefs
Fear of maternal disapproval
Late onset of puberty
High-quality parent-child relationships
Good grades
High intelligence
Why can’t others?
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Poverty
Family disruptions
Substance abuse
Lack of parental supervision
Poor academic performance
Hopelessness
The risks of adolescent sexuality
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Unwanted pregnancy – at least it is
recognized, but often ignored
STDs – overlooked in contrast to
pregnancy fears
Emotional upheaval – sure times have
changed, but someone usually gets hurt