ABSTRACT
Sexual development and sexuality begin in utero and continue throughout a person's lifetime. An adolescent's genetics, society and culture, family, and community all contribute to his or her development and ability to function as a healthy sexual individual. Sexuality encompasses much more than sexual intercourse; thus, precoital and noncoital sexual activity, recent trends toward delayed sexual activity, as well as media and internet influence are discussed in this chapter. Furthermore, sexuality education is much more than just the teaching of basic biologic functions and should include discussion of gender expression, healthy relationships, and anomalies in development, as well as emphasize pregnancy and disease prevention. Health-care providers should include these discussions in the care of their adolescent patients.
