© 2002 Jordan Institute
for Families

Vol. 7, No. 2
May 2002

• Exploratory in nature
• Characterized by spontaneity and lightheartedness
• Interest in sex is intermittent and balanced with curiosity about all things
• Sexual behavior may leave the child feeling embarrassed but not fearful or anxious
  

• Sexual behaviors are often done in view of adults and may be frequent
• Many of the behaviors are self-stimulating and may be directed toward adults
• Coerces other children, though the other children may dislike or be bothered by the behavior; no threats; no attempt to hurt
• Often represents a partial form of reenactment of sexual abuse the child has sustained; may be the child's way of trying to understand
• Shame, guilt, anxiety, and fear may be related to the upsurge or aftermath of the sexual behaviors
  

• Sexual behaviors are extensive and often habitual
• Find willing partners who will engage with them and avoid detection by parents/caretakers
• Often distrustful; chronically hurt and abandoned by adults; relate best to other children
• May or may not experience sexual pleasure
• Sexual behaviors are a way of coping with feelings of abandonment, loss, and fear
  

• Sexual behaviors are frequent and pervasive
• Intense sexual confusion is a hallmark of their thinking
• Sexuality and aggression are closely linked
• Use some kind of coercion to gain participation (bribery, trickery, etc.)
• Impulsive, compulsive, aggressive quality to many of their behaviors, including sexual behaviors
• Problems in all areas of their lives