Infant and Child Sexuality: A Sociological Perspective - Ipce

III. PREADOLESCENCE (8-12 YEARS)
Preadolescence, here defined as the ages from eight through twelve,
is a period of anticipation--a transition period--since the pubic
changes that begin during these ages and mature later are essential to
full adult sexual functioning. Parents as well as the major institutions
in society are aware and apprehensive about these changes.
Some aspects of sexual change appear earlier than others, and some
come on at different ages for different individuals. The time and rate
of development is not the same for boys and girls either. Biological
puberty, announced by the menarche in girls and by the capacity for
ejaculation in boys and with the development of secondary sex characteristics
in both, begins between the ages of eight and fifteen. (For
detailed information on biological changes during these years, see Caplan
and Lebovici, 1969, p. 27-49; McCandless, 1967, p. 382-414; Douvan
and Gold, 1966; Maccoby, 1966).
The eight year old, conscious of self as a person, recognizes his
differences from other people and voices them. While one this age is
very involved in thinking about self, chief interest lies in relationships
with others, whether they be people younger, older, or of the
same age. The eight year old is more outgoing than when younger, now
being the initiator of attempts to meet people and to go places. Personal
relationships and what others do to one are important. The eight
year old cares about what other people do to others as well. Social
standards are understood and followed. One’s own successes are viewed
with pleasure, but guilt feelings accompany failure. The eight year old
has developed an increasing identification with certain social groups
and has begun the practice of exclusion of those who are different.
The eight year old’s interest in sex is rather high, although sex
exploration and sex play are both less common than they were at age
six. Questions about sex continue with girls especially being interested
in menstruation and pregnancy. The process of a baby’s growth
within its mother is understood and the appearance of a pregnant woman
is connected with the existence of a baby. More exact information is
sought as to where the baby is in a mother’s abdomen. Realization that
the father has a role in procreation develops, and curiosity about that
role is present.
Girls and boys begin to separate in play. Girls participate in doll
play, paper doll play, and playing house as before. However, stressing
of more complex adult relationships distinguishes their play from
earlier years. Unorganized group play, such as wild running, chasing,
and wrestling occur. The beginning of secret clubs with varieties of
purposes is characteristic of this age group. The clubs are usually
short-lived. Boys recognize pretty girls and girls realize that some
boys are better looking than others. A boy may have several girl
friends, but he is aware that he will marry only one. The idea of
having a home of one’s own separate from parents when one marries is
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