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Human Sexual Development in the Somatic and Psychosexual Context
Krzysztof Dobrzeniecki1, Zuzanna Poczta1, Monika Kacprzak1
1Department of General and Developmental Sexology, Gynecology Clinic, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-535 Poznan, Poland.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|February 13, 2026
Summary
Human sexual development involves biological and psychosocial factors from prenatal stages through adolescence. Understanding these integrated processes is crucial for clinical practice and sexual health education.
Area of Science:
- Human Development
- Reproductive Health
- Psychology
Background:
- Human sexual development is a lifelong process influenced by biological and psychosocial factors.
- It progresses through distinct stages from prenatal development to reproductive maturity, regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
- Psychosexual development encompasses gender identity and behaviors, evolving from infancy to adolescence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current knowledge on human sexual development, integrating somatic and psychosexual aspects.
- To provide a comprehensive overview from the prenatal period through adolescence.
- To highlight the importance of understanding these dynamics for clinical practice, education, and prevention.
Main Methods:
- A literature review was conducted across multiple databases.
- Studies were selected and evaluated for relevance to both somatic and psychosexual development.
- The review synthesized existing research to present a comprehensive overview.
Main Results:
- Sexual development is a complex interplay of biological drives and psychosocial influences.
- The trajectory involves stages of somatic maturation and psychosexual differentiation.
- Adolescence marks a critical period for integrating sexual and emotional components.
Conclusions:
- Integrated clinical practices using a multidisciplinary approach are essential for sexual health.
- This includes medical treatment and psychological support, especially for disorders of sexual development.
- Understanding human sexual development is vital for effective sexual education and health prevention strategies.
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