Title: Parenting Children or Youth Who Are Sexually Reactive
Headings: Parenting Children or Youth Who Are Sexually Reactive
Parenting Children or Youth Who Are Sexually Reactive
Definitions
What Is Normal Sexual Behavior?
With Children
With Adolescents
So, What Do We As Parents Do?
Get Comfortable with Sex
Build Opportunities for Your Child’s Development
Respond to Challenging Behaviors
Ensure Safety
Seek a Therapist When Needed
Build Relationship with Your Child
Take Care of Yourself

Content: Sexually abusive means using sexual behaviors to control, threaten, harass, exploit, intimidate, etc. Research has shown that a child who has suffered extreme neglect can begin acting in sexually reactive ways, seeking self-stimulation to relieve stress. Early exposure to sexual trauma or incomprehensible sexual stimuli may contribute to hyper-sexuality or sexual behavior problems. But it’s important to keep in mind that every child who has been sexually abused does not act out in sexually aggressive ways. And it’s important to know that every child who has sexually reactive behavior does not go on to more dangerous behaviors. With consistent, calm correction and loving support—including educating about boundaries and sharing accurate information about sex—most children learn healthy ways to have their needs met. As professionals and family members, it is critical that we do not label children with sexual behavior problems as perpetrators. What Is Normal Sexual Behavior? With Children
We have to remember that everyone is a sexual being, to some extent. For children, normal sexual behavior includes: