30.09.2021

Sexuality is the subject of our “TeenAge Talk” with parents and students

By Lais Carvalho

Sixth and seventh graders (Y6 and Y7) and their families were invited to participate in the first TeenAge Talk of the year on the theme “Sexuality”.

Psychologist Beatriz Bork presented a general lecture on the topic and addressed the issues raised by parents and students. Beatriz holds a Master’s degree in School Psychology and Human Development Psychology from USP, a Doctor’s degree  in Clinical Psychology from PUC-SP, and she has been currently working at the Transdisciplinary Outpatient Clinic of Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation (AMTIGOS), at the Psychiatry Institute of Hospital das Clínicas.

During Guidance classes, students raised questions about the topic, which were sent to the speaker before the lecture. They also sent questions via chat at the time of the lecture and were able to clarify all their doubts without feeling exposed. Prioritizing the fact that each teenager is at a different stage, the theme was approached from a theoretical basis, starting from a broader view of the subject, to narrowing it down to specific issues. Several questions arose throughout the conversation, many of them about gender, the use of contraceptives, and also about the discovery of pleasure and sexuality. It is important to highlight that parents and students had different moments of conversation so that everyone felt comfortable asking and exchanging questions.

In the lecture addressed to the parents, the psychologist spoke about the evolution of sexuality, gave tips on how to face difficult conversations, discussed the issue of gender, as well as anguish most commonly brought by adolescents at each stage of development. Beatriz pointed out that it is not possible to be prepared to answer all the questions raised by the children, but that it is necessary to welcome, listen, and be willing to learn more about the topic in order to engage in a conversation with them later on. She advises not leaving the children with doubts or curiosity unresolved. Also, keeping in debate concrete facts instead of what one might feel would be the best to be answered.

Beacon believes in the constant training of its students and in partnering with families to address issues not only in the classroom context. TeenAge Talk is an opportunity to listen and exchange experiences.