ABSTRACT
Psychoanalytic concepts illuminate what is at stake for the adolescent, particularly the female, during the time when "sexual energy goes on the rampage" or, as Frangoise Dolto once remarked, "the libido blows its lid". The tendency towards debasement therefore emerges as a relevant concept, which could shed light on the so-called "dark continent" of female sexuality. This chapter explores how the concept is linked to childhood sexuality and emerges as frigidity in various forms. With the young, questions about sexuality are always central, but were more so in the sexual health setting. The Real, which underpins the reality of the body and sexuality, is of profound importance for the adolescent renegotiating the quagmire of the drives. The most frequently attended clinic dealt with the treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The theme of “terror”, dominated the speech of many individuals and was conveyed through the use of signifiers such as "terrified" and "horrified".
