10.1 Sexual development and behavior

Puberty brings a whirlwind of physical changes to teens. Hormones kick into overdrive, triggering growth spurts and the development of sexual characteristics. It's a time of rapid transformation, both inside and out.

As bodies change, so do feelings and attractions. Teens start exploring their sexual identity and orientation. They may experiment with different behaviors, from kissing to sexting, as they navigate this new world of sexuality and relationships.

Physical and Hormonal Changes in Adolescence

Physical changes during puberty

Top images from around the web for Physical changes during puberty

• 

  26.4E: Hormonal Regulation of the Male Reproductive System - Medicine LibreTexts View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Development of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems | Anatomy and Physiology II View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Hormonal Control of Human Reproduction · Biology View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  26.4E: Hormonal Regulation of the Male Reproductive System - Medicine LibreTexts View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Development of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems | Anatomy and Physiology II View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Physical changes during puberty

• 

  26.4E: Hormonal Regulation of the Male Reproductive System - Medicine LibreTexts View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Development of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems | Anatomy and Physiology II View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Hormonal Control of Human Reproduction · Biology View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  26.4E: Hormonal Regulation of the Male Reproductive System - Medicine LibreTexts View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Development of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems | Anatomy and Physiology II View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Primary sex characteristics involve development of reproductive organs (testes, ovaries) and maturation of internal structures (uterus, vas deferens)
• Secondary sex characteristics include growth of body hair (pubic, axillary), voice deepening in males, breast development in females, and increased muscle mass in males
• Hormonal influences trigger puberty through complex interactions:
  1. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates pituitary gland
  2. Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) released
  3. Testosterone production increases in males
  4. Estrogen and progesterone levels rise in females
• Growth spurt characterized by rapid increase in height and weight, altering body composition and proportions
• Onset of menstruation (menarche) in females typically occurs between ages 10-15
• Spermarche (first ejaculation) in males usually happens between ages 12-16

Sexual Identity and Behavior

Development of sexual orientation

• Sexual orientation refers to enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and sexual attraction to particular genders
• Spectrum of orientations includes heterosexuality (opposite sex), homosexuality (same sex), bisexuality (both sexes), and asexuality (little to no sexual attraction)
• Factors influencing orientation development:
  • Biological: genetic predisposition, prenatal hormone exposure
  • Environmental: family dynamics, peer relationships, cultural norms
  • Psychological: personal experiences, self-concept, emotional attachments
• Identity formation involves self-discovery, exploration of attractions, and integration into self-concept
• Coming out process may include self-acceptance, disclosure to others, and navigating social reactions
• LGBTQ+ adolescents often face unique challenges (discrimination, family rejection, increased risk of mental health issues)

Common adolescent sexual behaviors

• Masturbation highly prevalent and normal behavior for both males and females, often surrounded by myths and misconceptions
• Sexual intercourse:
  • Average age of first intercourse varies by culture and region (15-17 in many Western countries)
  • Decision influenced by factors like peer pressure, relationship status, and personal values
  • Contraception use varies, with condoms and birth control pills most common
• Sexual experimentation includes range of behaviors:
  • Kissing and touching (typically earliest forms of sexual exploration)
  • Oral sex often precedes vaginal intercourse
  • Mutual masturbation as form of intimacy without penetration
• Sexting and online sexual behavior increasingly common (sharing explicit messages or images)
• Abstinence chosen by some adolescents for personal, religious, or health reasons
• Risky sexual behaviors include multiple partners and unprotected sex, increasing STI and pregnancy risk

Influences on adolescent sexuality

• Peer influence shapes perceived sexual norms and can create pressure to conform
• Media impact:
  • Movies, TV, and music often portray idealized or unrealistic sexual relationships
  • Social media affects body image and self-esteem
  • Pornography easily accessible, potentially influencing expectations and behaviors
• Societal norms vary widely:
  • Cultural and religious attitudes range from restrictive to permissive
  • Gender roles often dictate different expectations for male and female sexual behavior
  • Double standards persist (males praised for sexual activity, females stigmatized)
• Sex education varies in content and effectiveness:
  • School-based programs range from abstinence-only to comprehensive
  • Parent-child communication crucial but often limited or uncomfortable
• Technology impacts sexual attitudes and behaviors:
  • Dating apps facilitate new types of relationships and encounters
  • Cyberbullying and online sexual harassment pose new risks
• Family values and parental monitoring influence adolescent sexual decision-making and behavior