First, review the case study about Devon and Kelly below. You may find it helpful to refer to the suggested answers for the Explore activity in Lesson One. Then answer the questions in the Sexual Behavior Reflection Tool.

Devon and Kelly are 13-year-old students in your classroom. They both claimed to be “boyfriend and girlfriend” about two months ago, though they frequently break up and get back together. Devon and Kelly’s families are good friends, and they socialize together often. Other students in the program gossip about how the two of them “make out in Kelly’s bedroom” when Devon’s family is visiting.

Devon and Kelly have been observed to hold hands and put their arms around each other during the school, especially when getting off the bus and during outdoor time. School staff have asked that they not engage in these behaviors and explained what types of touch are appropriate, but they need to be reminded of these guidelines. Sometimes when they are “broken up,” Devon will attempt to put his arms around Kelly even when it is unwanted. School staff respond to this by telling Devon to, “Leave Kelly alone.” A teacher has separately spoken with both sets of parents about the behaviors and guidelines given to Devon and Kelly about appropriate touch while at school. Both sets of parents seem to think, “kids this age will be kids.” Kelly’s parent responded that their behaviors are “cute” and says that this is the age when kids start dating. Devon’s parent found the behavior to be funny and stated, “Devon is learning how to chase girls.”

 

Sexual Behavior Reflection Tool

Team Responses

 

Is the behavior random or infrequent?

The behavior happens on and off.

 

 

Is the behavior typical for the student’s age and developmental ability?

Yes, it is typical for youth this age to begin to feel and sometimes show affection for others in this way.

 

 

Is the behavior driven by curiosity, exploration, and playfulness?

Yes, Devon and Kelly are exploring changing emotions and relationships that are typical for their age.

 

 

If other students are involved, is it mutual and good-humored?

It is mostly mutual but sometimes unwanted by Kelly.

 

 

If other students are involved, do they know each other well and are they of a similar age and development (<2 years)?

Devon and Kelly are very close and spend a lot of time together. They are the same age.

 

 

Is the behavior easily redirected?

They stop when asked to do so but need reminders of the rules.

 

 

Normative Sexual Behavior?

Though this is not a black-and-white situation, this is still likely considered normative behavior. Think about the mixed messages Devon and Kelly receive between home and school. Also, it is typical for students this age to push boundaries, question rules, and need support with decision-making regarding peer interaction.