Chapter 9: sexuality in childhood and adolescence

Question 1

Andrearche (age 8-10)

Answer 1

The maturation of the andrenal glands that produce sex hormones. This causes an increase in testosterone in boys.

Question 2

Gender segregated social organisation in childhood

Answer 2

During childhood, there often is little to none heterosexual behaviour, because boys and girls are often split into 2 groups. When they hear about intercourse this is often followed by shock and disbelief, but kissing, hugging and touching each others genitals does occur.

Question 3

First intercourse

Answer 3

Is often more positively experienced when it was non-spontaneous, with less traditional gender roles and more body satisfaction. A positive first sexual experience is associated with more emotional en psychical satisfaction in later relations.

Question 4

Too early sex

Answer 4

Experts say that sex before the age of 15 is too early and carries a risk of STD’s, early marriage, pregnancy and an increased number of sexual partners.

Question 5

Reasons for risky adolescent sexual behaviour

Answer 5

The emotional reward-seeking areas (amygdala and ventral striatum) develop earlier than the impulse control areas.

Question 6

The effects of casual sex

Answer 6

Is associated with negative mental health outcomes like a lower self-esteem, depression and anxiety, but only if the sex contains pressure, alcohol or unintentional sex.

Question 7

The stages of psychosexual development (Erikson)

Answer 7

1. Childhood: autonomy vs. shame
2. Adolescence: identity vs. role confusion
3. Young adulthood: intimacy vs. isolation