Knowra Adolescent sexuality Adolescent sexuality Adolescent sexuality is the development and expression of sexual feelings, identities, relationships, and behaviors during adolescence. It is shaped by physical maturation, personal development, relationships, and social context.
Puberty : The process through which a child’s body develops the capacity for sexual reproduction and adult physical characteristics. Hormonal and bodily changes influence emerging sexual feelings and relationships.
Sexual maturation : The biological development of reproductive capacity and secondary sex characteristics. It describes the bodily changes that accompany adolescent sexual development.
Comprehensive sexuality education : An age-appropriate educational approach covering relationships, health, rights, consent, and sexuality. It provides structured knowledge and skills relevant to adolescent development.
Adolescent pregnancy : Pregnancy occurring in a person during adolescence. Pregnancy can affect health, education, and social opportunities.
Adolescent development : The physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that occur between childhood and adulthood. Sexuality develops alongside broader changes in autonomy, identity, and social life.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis : The hormone-signaling system linking the brain, pituitary gland, and gonads to regulate reproductive development. Its activation initiates many hormonal changes associated with puberty.
Adolescent sexual health : The physical, emotional, and social well-being of adolescents in matters related to sexuality and reproduction. It connects development with access to accurate information and health services.
Sexual violence : Sexual acts or attempts imposed on someone without freely given consent. Violence and coercion can harm adolescents’ health, safety, and development.
Sexual orientation : A person’s enduring pattern of romantic, emotional, or sexual attraction to others. Adolescence is a common period for recognizing or exploring patterns of attraction.
Social learning theory : A theory that explains behavior as learned through observation, imitation, and reinforcement. Peers, family, and media can model norms about intimacy and relationships.
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