Normative sexuality development in childhood: Implications for developmental guidance and prevention of childhood sexual abuse
Date
2011
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Counseling and Human Development
Abstract
Our primary goal in this article is to review what is known about normative and nonnormative sexual behavior and knowledge among children 12 years and younger. Second, we review what is known about contextual influences on children's sexual behaviors. What is deemed "normal" sexual behavior is determined by social, cultural, and familial contexts. Third, we use these findings to offer suggestions for how parents and other adults can provide sexual abuse prevention education while simultaneously promoting children's healthy sexual development. Children who do not know about these two topics--sexuality and body safely--are more vulnerable to sexual abuse. Finally, we will offer guidelines for parents, childcare providers, teachers, and counselors about how to respond to normal and problematic sexual behaviors. Parents and professionals working with children frequently ask questions about the normality of children's sexual behaviors. They often want to know whether the behaviors are typical and to be expected, or arc an indication that the child has been sexually abused. More important, they want to know how to address children's sexual behaviors. We will provide guidance on responding to sexual behaviors and suggest ways adults can help children grow into happy, healthy sexual adults. (Author Abstract)
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Keywords
child abuse, child sexual behavior, sexualized behavior, risk factors, prevention, child development, parenting
Citation
Wurtele, S. K., & Kenny, M. C. (2011). Normative sexuality development in childhood: Implications for developmental guidance and prevention of childhood sexual abuse. Counseling and Human Development, 43(9), 1-24.
URI
http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sandy_Wurtele/publication/245022218_Normative_sexuality_development_in_childhood_Implications_for_developmental_guidance_and_prevention_of_childhood_sexual_abuse/links/549489eb0cf2ec1337581933.pdf?ev=pub_ext_doc_dl&origin=publication_detail&inViewer=true
http://hdl.handle.net/11212/2155
http://hdl.handle.net/11212/2155