Adolescence is a transitional stage of physical, emotional, and cognitive human development that happens before the onset of puberty and ending by adulthood. During this time span, it is typical to begin exploring issues pertaining to sexuality, gender, sexual orientation, and sexual behavior.
In or around the teenage years, many adolescents will question their sexual orientation in some way. This is often a confusing time because it is possible to be emotionally attracted to one gender while being physically attracted to another. And sometimes adolescents can find themselves emotionally and physically attracted to one gender while being attracted to a specific person or persons of the opposite gender. These are just some of the reasons why it is normal for adolescents to experience uncertainty or feelings of ambivalence about their sexual orientation.
Adolescents face a great challenge during the early stages of this developmental period. Many biological and psychological changes happen during this phase, and many adolescents are not adequately prepared to cope with these changes. which often leads to feelings of stress and anxiety. During these early teenage years, the hormonal and physical changes of puberty are often associated with an increase in sexual feelings and desires. Part of this process can help form a deeper understanding of their unique sexual feelings. A sexually healthy adolescent is capable of making decisions about their sexual health that are in line with her or his personal identities, goals, values, and core beliefs.