Characteristics of a Sexually Healthy Adolescent
Courtesy of Advocates for Youth
Understands pubertal change
Views pubertal changes as normal
Practices health-promoting behaviors, such as abstinence from alcohol and other drugs, and undergoing regular check-ups
Identifies own values
Decides what is personally "right" and acts on these values
Understands consequences of actions
Understands that media messages can create unrealistic expectations related to sexuality and intimate relationships
Is able to distinguish personal desires from that of the peer group
Recognizes behavior that may be self-destructive and can seek help
Enjoys sexual feelings without necessarily acting upon them
Understands the consequences of sexual behaviors
Makes personal decisions about masturbation consistent with personal values
Makes personal decisions about sexual behaviors with a partner consistent with personal values
Understands own gender identity
Understands effect of gender role stereotypes and makes choices about appropriate roles for oneself
Understands own sexual orientation
Seeks further information about sexuality as needed
Understands peer and cultural pressure to become sexually involved
Accepts people with different values and experiences
Maintains appropriate balance between family roles and responsibilities and growing need for independence
Is able to negotiate with family on boundaries
Respects rights of others
Demonstrates respect for adults
Asks questions of parents and other trusted adults about sexual issues
Can accept trusted adults' guidance about sexuality issues
Tries to understand parental point of view
Communicates effectively with friends
Has friendships with males and females
Is able to form empathetic relationships
Is able to identify and avoid exploitative relationships
Understands and rejects sexual harassing behaviors
Understands pressures to be popular and accepted, and makes decisions consistent with own values
Believes that boys and girls have equal rights and responsibilities for love and sexual relationships
Communicates desire not to engage in sexual behaviors and accepts refusals to engage in sexual behaviors
Is able to distinguish between love and sexual attraction
Seeks to understand and empathize with partner
Talks with a partner about sexual behaviors before they occur
Is able to communicate and negotiate sexual limits
Differentiates between low-risk and high-risk sexual behaviors
If having intercourse, protects self and partner from unintended pregnancy and diseases through effective use of contraception and condoms and other safer sex practices
Knows how to use and access the health care system, community agencies, religious institutions, and schools; and seeks advice, information, and services as needed.
Self:
Appreciates Own Body
Takes Responsibility for Own Behaviors
Is Knowledgeable About Sexuality Issues
Relationships with Parents and Family Members:
Communicates Effictively With Family About Issues, Including Sexuality
Understands and Seeks Information About Parents' and Family's Values, and Considers Them in Developing One's Own Values:
Peers:
Interacts With Both Genders in Appropriate and Respectful Ways
Romantic Partners:
Expresses Love and Intimacy in Developmentally Appropriate Ways
Has the Skills to Evaluate Readiness for Mature Sexual Relationships