Sexuality and Development Theory

Shasta Lynn Padios-Dimmick

Abilene Christian University

MFTO 651 – Sexual Therapy

Professor Dr. Steele

February 3, 2025
 Sexuality and Development Theory

Healthy Sexual Function

Healthy sexual functioning is described as the ability to engage in consenting, enjoyable sexual

activities without experiencing physical or psychological suffering. It is a combination of

physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, and it varies greatly amongst individuals

depending on a variety of conditions. While the fundamental components of good sexual

functioning are the same for both men and women, how these components appear may differ.

For example, men may prioritize physical arousal and performance, whereas women may

prioritize emotional connection and closeness. Furthermore, sexual functioning might vary with

age and life stage. Younger people may have more frequent sexual desires and activities, but

older folks may have different priorities and physical problems. Adolescence, adulthood,

parenting, and menopause each provide their own set of obstacles and changes to sexual

functioning. For example, hormonal changes during menopause might influence a woman's

sexual desire and arousal (Gambescia et al., 2019.)

Several demographic characteristics can influence how we define good sexual function. Cultural

background influences attitudes on sex and sexuality. Religious beliefs can shape what is

acceptable sexual behavior and attitudes. Socioeconomic position influences access to education,

healthcare, and resources, all of which have an impact on sexual health and function. Higher

levels of education are frequently related to broader sexual health knowledge and practices.

Access to sexual health resources and information can be affected by one's geographic location,

whether it be urban or rural (Binik & Hall, 2020.)

Personal Sex Story

reflection, such as blogging about prior experiences, beliefs, and sexuality, might be beneficial.

Educating oneself on sexual health, anatomy, and relationships brings clarity. Open and honest

discussion with partners, friends, or a therapist can aid in the exploration and understanding of

sexual identities and preferences. Practicing mindfulness during sexual experiences can help you

comprehend what feels nice and what does not. If you have unresolved difficulties or trauma

connected to sex, obtaining help from a therapist or counselor can be useful. Understanding your

boundaries and what makes you feel comfortable or uncomfortable is essential for identifying

your sexual identity. Individuals can obtain a better knowledge of their personal sex story and

what good sexual functioning entails by investigating these topics.

With self-exploration and education, I have come more to an understanding of how

comfortable I am with being a sexual being. To me sex is normal and can be fun if you know

your boundaries and keep safe. I continue to become curious and explore if necessary to just be

more knowledgably of what my likes and dislikes are. I will not know if I like things if I do not

try them out. The conversation about sex should be an open and comfortable one, especially with

your partner. I do believe if a person believes talking about sex is normal, then it can mold on

how we define our sexual identity and be more comfortable in our own skin which will lead to

more of a positive body image.

Social Media and Sexual Identity

Social media has a tremendous impact on the formation and shaping of sexual identity because it

allows people to explore, express, and confirm their sexual orientations and preferences. It

provides users with access to varied representations of sexuality, letting them see a variety of

identities and lifestyles that may not be available in their immediate social networks. This
exposure can help people understand and communicate their own sexual identities, fostering a

sense of community and belonging. Social media platforms also encourage talks and advocacy

about sexual health, rights, and acceptance, allowing people to embrace their identities more

boldly (Attwood et al., 2015.)

The impact of social media on sexual identity varies depending on age, gender, cultural

background, and geographical location. Younger generations, who spend more time on social

media, may be more influenced by the patterns and discussions they see online. For example,

teenagers and young adults may find support and acceptance in online forums that address

LGBTQ+ topics, which can be especially important during their formative years. Gender also

has an impact, as women and non-binary people may use social media to defy established gender

conventions and express their sexuality in ways that are real to them. Cultural background and

geographic location can also influence the impact of social media, as people from more

conservative or restrictive backgrounds may find online places more freeing and informative

(Zeglin & Mitchell, 2014.)

Development and Life Stages

Identifying how different areas of development and life stages contribute to the formation of a

sexual self requires an awareness of the particular challenges and changes that each period

brings. Older adults, for example, may experience a transformation in their sexual identity

because of physical changes like menopause or erectile trouble, which can impair sexual desire

and function. Furthermore, cultural assumptions about aging and sexuality might shape how

older people view their sexual selves, potentially leading to a rethinking of what intimacy and

sexual satisfaction mean to them (Gambescia et al., 2019.)

identity. The experience of childbirth, along with the demands of new parenthood, can alter body

image, sexual desire, and the dynamics of intimate relationships. For some women, this stage

may include reevaluating their sexual priorities and communicating honestly with their partners

about their shifting wants and boundaries (Leeman & Rogers, 2012.)

Individuals with disabilities face special problems in developing a sexual identity. Physical

constraints or chronic health concerns can impair sexual function and expression, forcing people

to seek new methods to enjoy intimacy and pleasure. Furthermore, social views and

misconceptions regarding disability and sexuality can influence how people with disabilities

perceive themselves and their sexual selves, therefore it is critical for them to seek out supportive

groups and resources that validate their sexual rights and preferences (Taylor & Davis, 2007.)

Adolescents and teenagers are at a key point in the development of their sexual identities.

Significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes occur throughout this time, as does

greater exposure to sexual information and experiences. Adolescents may investigate their sexual

orientation, experiment with relationships, and have a better grasp of consent and appropriate

sexual limits. Peers, media, and education can all shape their beliefs and behaviors at this time,

making it critical for promoting optimal sexual development and self-acceptance (Mccabe &

Giles, 2012.)
 References

Attwood, F., Barker, M. J., Boynton, P., & Hancock, J. (2015). Sense about sex: media, sex

advice, education and learning. Sex Education, 15(5), 528–539.

https://doi.org/10.1080/14681811.2015.1057635

Binik, Y. M., & Hall, K. S. K. (2020). Principles and Practice of Sex Therapy. The Guilford

Press.

Gambescia, K.M.H.G.R.W. N. (2019). Systemic Sex Therapy (3rd ed.). Taylor & Francis.

https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9781000712025

Leeman, L. M., & Rogers, R. G. (2012). Sex After Childbirth. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 119(3),

647–655. https://doi.org/10.1097/aog.0b013e3182479611

McCabe, M. P., & Giles, K. (2012). Differences between sexually functional and dysfunctional

women in psychological and relationships domains. International Journal of Sexual

Health, 24, 181–194. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2012.680686.

Taylor, B., & Davis, S. (2007). The Extended PLISSIT Model for Addressing the Sexual

Wellbeing of Individuals with an Acquired Disability or Chronic Illness. Sexuality and

Disability, 25(3), 135–139. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11195-007-9044-x

Zeglin, R. J., & Mitchell, J. (2014). Using Social Media to Assess Conceptualizations of

Sexuality. American Journal of Sexuality Education, 9(3), 276–291.

https://doi.org/10.1080/15546128.2014.933994