Vores seksualitet udvikles gradvist gennem det liv vi lever - også i barndommen

Manchet:
Artiklen sætter fokus på det forhold, at børns seksualitet udvikles som en integreret del af barnets øvrige udvikling. Der gives et billede af børns seksualitet som et forsømt område både på daginstitutionsniveau og i den tilgængelige faglitteratur for pædagogfaget. Yderligere indiceres det ved hjælp af psykologiske, evolutionære, etologiske, primatologiske, neuropsykologiske og antropologiske perspektiver, at børn har brug for et øverum, hvor den voksne nok skal guide i forhold til samfundets normer, men næppe aflede eller forbyde børns nysgerrige udforskning af egen og andres seksualitet.
Abstract:
Children’s sexuality is a field of study that is insufficiently researched, having being characterized by cultural misconceptions, restrictions and constraints. Recent surveys indicate that many Danish day care centres ban children from playing games with a perceived sexual content in which they explore their own or each other’s bodies.

Notwithstanding, there are many indicators drawn from theoretical discussions and scientific research suggesting that we, as humans, need to be able to gradually develop our corporal understanding and competencies in order to engage with our sexuality. Research indicates that sexual desire and sexual urges are steadily formed and developed through the synergy between biological makeup and emotional aptitude.

This gradual process starts during the neonatal period and requires adult guidance throughout childhood. Consequently, adult censure and disapproval can be injurious to the development of a healthy, well-functioning sexuality in future generations.