Sexual Development and the Treatment of Sexual Disorders in Children and Adolescents

This chapter reviews sexual development and discusses sexual disorders originating in childhood and adolescence within a developmental scheme. Also included in this review are the examinations of the impact of medical illnesses on sexual development and current concerns related to disorders of sex development. Guidelines, clinical attitudes, and management of these conditions and related problems are considered. The development of sexual orientation and attendant issues are also reviewed. Additionally, the diagnosis and treatment of gender identity disorder and paraphilias are considered. The chapter concludes with a discussion of sexual abuse with perspectives on children and adolescents as victims and as perpetrators. Case examples are provided throughout the chapter.