When does a child need a sexologist?

Sexuality affects all of us from an early age. Unfortunately, parents very often do not want to accept that their children exhibit sexual behavior. Childhood is a key period of development in which not only the psyche, but also sexual expression develops. That is why it is so important for caregivers to closely observe the child’s behavior and react immediately when they cause any anxiety. Sometimes the solution to the problem may be a visit to a sexologist.

While it is normal for a young child to exhibit sexual behavior, it remains a cause for concern for many parents. When a child manifests his sexuality, surprised parents often do not know how to act. Some people are amused by such behavior, others are surprised, and still others are afraid that their child may be sick or develop improperly. However, it is worth realizing that as children grow up, they learn not only what the outside world looks like, but also get to know their body. One of the developmental stages may also be sexual arousal. Sexual expression is developmental and in most cases passes away, and the child ceases to manifest his sexuality.

If the child’s sexual expression does not pass or is very intense, it is worth consulting a child sexologist who will assess whether the child needs help. In this way, parents can be sure that they have done everything in their power to protect their child from developmental disorders. In practice, in many cases it may turn out that parents only need a psychologist’s advice and guidance on how to respond to their child’s sexual behavior.

Sometimes sexual behavior does not result from the child’s interest in his body and observation of others, but is caused by the child’s exposure to sexual stimuli. If a child is abused or accesses sexual content, he or she may exhibit disturbing behavior that will worsen over time and can stigmatize overall mental development. In such cases, it is imperative that you identify the problem as soon as possible.

When a child manifests his sexuality, asks embarrassing questions about gender and sex, and exhibits sexual behavior towards others, parents may feel anxious, angry, embarrassed or helpless. When the parent is unable to explain to the child himself that his questions and actions should not take place, emotions are often involved, such as screaming or threatening with punishment. This way of solving the problem may lead to the aggravation of the problem.

If, as a parent, you are unable to deal with your child’s sexuality, it may be best to see an experienced child sexologist. It will show you how to respond to disturbing sexual behavior by your child. If necessary, the specialist may also suggest psychotherapy, group activities or some other form of treatment.

In fact, any behavior that deviates from the norm and causes anxiety may be the subject of consultation with a sexologist. A specialist can help with disorders such as child masturbation, child exhibitionism, dirty games, touching other people’s intimate places, etc. Therapy is always tailored to the specific case, and the key element in selecting it is talking with the child and interviewing the caregiver. In order to prepare well for the conversation with the sexologist, carefully observe your child and his behavior before the visit. Do not underestimate any sexual behavior it exhibits. Be honest during the consultation, do not be ashamed of how your child behaves. Remember that a child sexologist wants to help you, and hiding facts about the child’s behavior from him will certainly not help him make an accurate diagnosis.

One of the more serious problems that requires a visit to a sexologist is identification with the opposite sex. Although most problems are temporary and pass as the child becomes more aware of who they are, they may be a symptom of a different gender identity. This type of behavior may require therapy and treatment at a very early age, so delaying an appointment may only exacerbate the problem.

If your child’s sexual expression is strong enough that you don’t know what to do, make an appointment with a pediatric sexologist. Don’t delay – remember that your child’s mental health is at stake.