Click to talk to a trained teen volunteer. But those sexual and gender identities are only a few of the unlimited types that exist. As we understand more about gender and sexuality, new identities are added to this list all the time! The truth is, gender, sex, and sexual identity are so complex and fluid that it can be hard for someone to easily explain or describe themselves using one label or word. They may feel that these labels limit people or that they are unnecessary.
It can be even more confusing when you hear your teen talk to others, or try to read their texts. Adolescents today will also use words and phrases that mean totally different things than what you think they mean. Many times, teen-speak can denote sexual- and drug-related innuendo. Below are a few terms, and their definitions, to help you stay in the know—and take action if see these terms being used in a suspicious way.
Adolescence is the dawn of sexual attraction. It happens due to the hormonal changes of puberty. These changes involve both the body and the mind — so just thinking about someone attractive can cause physical arousal.