Early adolescents face many changes during their transition from childhoodto adulthood. Key developmental tasks, during this period of potential risk andinstability, include acquiring a sense of sexual identity. This descriptive qualitativestudy sought to explore early adolescents’ perception of sexual identity and relatedfactors. Qualitative data were gathered from early adolescents via focus groupdiscussions (n = 84) and interviews (n = 12). Data, from both the focus groupdiscussions and interviews, were analyzed, using content analysis described by Morseand Richards.

Findings revealed sexual identity was perceived by Thai adolescents to include:biological sex; gender role; gender identity; and, sexual orientation. Biological sexwas perceived as female or male, based on one’s sexual organs, while gender role,feminine or masculine, was perceived through external appearances includingclothing, personality and manners. With respect to gender identity, girls expressedpride in potentially becoming a mother and being protected, but were conflictedabout female characteristics and being disadvantaged when compared to males.Boys were proud of being strong, being gentlemen and having freedom. Regardingsexual orientation, all adolescents were sexually attracted to the opposite sex. Familyupbringing, the media and school environment were factors perceived to be relatedto sexual identity. The results may help school health providers, parents, nurses andothers better recognize and address early adolescent vulnerabilities, and developappropriate programs that promote sexual identity.