What is sexual desire?

• Sexual desire refers to one’s interest in sex
• The sexual drive is a natural feeling or urge
• It influences thoughts, behaviors and fantasies

Is sexual desire normal?

• This feeling is normal and is part of growing up
• Everyone will have this feeling due to the changes in our hormones. See understanding adolescent
• These hormones are important to carry out reproductive and sexual functions

When sexual desire does become unhealthy?

• Uncontrollable sexual urge leading to sexual aggression (e.g. rape).
• Sexual attraction towards same sex, children and animals.

What influences sexual desire?

Factors responsible include:

Inner drive

• As a normal adolescent, you will have sexual interests and feelings
• You can become emotionally and sexually attracted to the opposite sex and drawn towards physical relationship

Exposure to seductive messages Constant exposure to sexually provocative materials in the form of media (e.g. movies, television, magazines, internet and others)

• Lack of responsible adult supervision and guidance
  • You might get wrong information about sexuality in places like cybercafes, pornographic materials
• Environmental situation
  • Being alone with your partner in a quiet area such as a park, car, room, house and other places might induce your desire

How can I control sexual desire?

• Be aware of what stimulates your desire either within yourself or with others.
• Believe and stand by your own values.
• Avoid situations that stimulate your desire further.
• If the desire is with others, you need to:
  • Respect each other boundaries
  • Know your limits
  • Learn to communicate and negotiate. Able to say NO
  • Be responsible and know the consequences for your actions (3R concept on sexuality)

Get accurate information from reliable sources:

• Your parents
• Teachers
• Doctors
• Religious teachers

Get involved in activities and programs that build skills. Examples:

• Rakan Muda,
• PROSTAR ( www.prostar.gov.my),
• Teenager activities by the Ministry of Youth and Sports(www.kbs.gov.my)

Express and communicate your feelings with your parents or a trusted adult.

Get involved in healthy social activities. Examples: be a volunteer in charity activities, religious activities www.befrienders.org.my