What Is Sexuality?

Sexuality is an integral part of every human being, regardless of age or any other part of a person’s identity. It begins early—even in the womb, when people may make assumptions about a child based on their assumed gender. Once a child is born, people may continue to react to its assigned sex at birth. How people care for, hold, talk to, interact with and respond to children sends them powerful messages about sexuality. 

As a child grows up, they will continue to receive messages about sexuality from a variety of sources. Over time these messages may include other parts of their identity, including race, sexual orientation and gender expression. They can affect how a person sees themselves physically, socially, emotionally and spiritually, and influence their family, friend and romantic relationships. The media and popular culture also send messages that sexualize people and influence how young people think about sex or physical pleasure. All of these can impact both how a person sees themselves and their experience of physical pleasure, whether being cuddled, holding hands, someone rubbing their back or later kissing someone romantically.

It can be difficult for parents to support their children’s developing sexuality, particularly since it involves their growing agency and independence. But sexuality is a universal component of being human, and continues throughout our lives, whether a person is sexually active or not.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

When parents and caregivers engage in loving and supportive conversations with children about sexuality, it allows children to address their needs in ways that avoid feelings of shame and self-judgment. Having regular discussions about sexuality can be a useful way to normalize the experience for your child, and to let them know that you are available for any questions or concerns they have.

Below are some ways to start conversations about sexuality: