Is_2038052_sexuality

Sexuality

We all are sexual beings from the day we are born to the day we die. Our sexuality is so much more than the physical act of sex; it is an integral part of our everyday identity. Anna Freud famously said, “Sex is something you do, sexuality is something you are”. Human sexuality is expressed and experienced in many ways. Our sexuality is influenced by who we are, our culture, our spiritual beliefs and our family of origin. At the core, sexuality includes our biological sex, sexual orientation and gender identity. Sexuality is expressed in our thoughts, behaviors, attitudes and values about sex, love and intimate relationships as well as how we think and feel about our bodies. It is also expressed through our desire and sexual preferences.

Sexual health is an important component of wellness and impacts our minds, bodies and relationships. The World Health Organization defines sexual health as:

  • a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being related to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity; and
  • a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence.

When you are sexually healthy you make good decisions about your sexual behavior, embrace yourself as a sexual being, and educate yourself about healthy choices. Understanding your body leads to being more comfortable with your sexual self.

TIPS

Healthy Sexual Boundaries

Boundaries are about making rules that will keep you happy and safe from unwanted attentions. Sexual boundaries can include who you are intimate with, when you will say “no”, how “far” you want to go. Remember, you need to respect yourself in order to be respected by others. Ask yourself these questions to help you identify whether or not you are setting healthy sexual boundaries for yourself.

  • Is my behavior in sync with my values?
  • Do I have low self-esteem?
  • Do I think I am a bad person, or not as good as other people?
  • Am I able to clearly talk to my partner?
  • Does my partner listen and respond when I try to talk to them?
  • How important is sex in this relationship to me?
  • How important is sex to my partner?
  • Do I ever feel pressured into having sex?
  • Do I trust my partner?
  • Does my partner trust me?

Kids and the Influence of Media

Movies, TV, music lyrics, music videos, Web sites, and more can affect how your child thinks and behaves. Talk to your child about how the media can have an impact on him or her.

Be aware that children have easy access to many websites with sexual or pornographic content. Keep the computer in a shared area where you can see what your child is doing online.

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