反映在性发育与行为:学院l Age Case Study
Read the case study about Devon and Kelly, then complete the following activities. Reflect on your responses with a coach, trainer, or administrator.
Devon and Kelly are twelve-year-old children in an after-school program. They attend the same school and both claimed to be “boyfriend and girlfriend,” about two months ago; though they frequently “break up” and get back together. Devon and Kelly’s families are good friends, and they socialize together often. Other children in the program gossip about how the two of them “make out in Kelly’s bedroom” when Devon’s family is visiting.
Devon and Kelly have been observed to hold hands and put their arms around one another during the program, especially when getting off the bus and during outdoor time. Program staff have asked that they not engage in these behaviors and explained what types of touch are appropriate, but they need to be reminded of these guidelines. Sometimes when they are “broken up,” Devon will attempt to put his arms around Kelly even when it is unwanted. Program staff respond to this by telling Devon to, “Leave Kelly alone.” A staff member has separately spoken with both sets of parents about the behaviors and guidelines given to Devon and Kelly about appropriate touch while in the program. Both sets of parents seem to think, “kids this age will be kids.” Kelly’s parent responded that their behaviors are “cute” and says that this is the age when kids start dating. Devon’s parent found the behavior to be funny and stated, “Devon is learning how to chase girls.”
Think about Devon and Kelly’s sexual development-physical changes, knowledge and beliefs, and behaviors and record the information in the table.
Physical Changes
- Both are pre-pubescent or going through puberty, likely experiencing physical and hormonal changes
Knowledge & Beliefs
- Understand the concepts of boyfriend and girlfriend and self-identify with these terms
- Parents are okay that they are dating and use physical affection
- Receive mixed messages about appropriate touch from parents and staff
- Devon may not understand consent
Behaviors
- Holding hands and putting arms around each other
- Sometimes wanted by both, other times not consensual
Record your thoughts on the following factors to reflect on Avery’s sexual behavior.
Culture & Family Norms
- Families are friends, think it’s okay for their children to engage in this behavior and to be dating
- Devon’s parent thinks “chasing girls” type behavior is acceptable
Development
- Children this age begin to have more complex peer relations, friendships are very important to sense of self
- May feel peer pressure
- May desire the attention of others in a romantic way
- Behaviors are typical, although Devon needs support
Function of the Behavior
- Behaviors are intentional, sometimes unwanted by Kelly
Frequency & Participation
- Off and on for two months while at the program
Environment
- During after-care program, coming off the bus and when outdoors
Effect on Others
- Kelly does not always want to engage in these behaviors
- Other children may be observing
Redirection
- Somewhat responsive to redirection
- Devon needs redirection specific to consent