The Sexual Life of the Child

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

28402

Title

The Sexual Life of the Child

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Dr. Albert Moll presents a frank, scientific examination of childhood sexuality, challenging taboos to provide educators, physicians, and parents with the knowledge needed to guide youth and prevent moral corruption through enlightened understanding.

Summary up to 500 words

In "The Sexual Life of the Child," Dr. Albert Moll presents a pioneering, scientific investigation into the origins and development of sexual feelings and acts during childhood and youth. Rejecting the prevailing notion that such behaviors are merely pathological or the result of improper education, Moll argues that sexual life begins long before puberty. Utilizing extensive data gathered from healthy individuals rather than just patients, he meticulously distinguishes between normal development and abnormality, aiming to replace ignorance and superstition with "sexual enlightenment"—open, dignified discussion. Moll details the physiological and mental differentiation between boys and girls. He notes that while boys engage in rough outdoor play and develop angular, muscular bodies, girls often exhibit early maternal instincts, prefer domestic activities, and demonstrate a superior knowledge of colors. He explains that these differences are not solely the result of education but are partly inborn, supported by observations of animal behavior and psychological experiments showing girls excel in visual memory and color recognition, while boys often lead in spatial concepts. The text addresses the "undifferentiated" sexual impulse common in early childhood, explaining how it naturally evolves into specific attractions. Moll covers physiological aspects, including menstruation and erection, alongside psychological phenomena such as sexual dreams, masturbation, and the "romantic transfiguration" of loved objects. He tackles the influence of the environment, warning against the dangers of urban corruption and the role of teachers and parents in guiding young minds. Moll advocates for a matter-of-fact approach to safeguarding children against both internal anxieties and external attacks. He urges society to face these realities with courage rather than shame or evasion, arguing that enlightened guidance is essential for preventing sexual disorder and ensuring the healthy development of future generations. By combining medical expertise with psychological insight, the work serves as a comprehensive guide for parents, educators, and medical practitioners.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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2026-07-08 10:07 UTC

Categories

• Psychology
• Children