In addition to the Environment, Genetic Factors Also Play a Role in Children's Sexual Orientation Deviation

JAKARTA - Sexual orientation deviation in children is often associated with inborn factors since birth, one of which is genetic factors. A number of medical studies explain abnormalities or disorders in sex chromosomes, including the Y chromosome, which can affect the biological development of male children since they are in the womb.

Damage or imperfection of certain gene functions on the Y chromosome can impact the production of the hormone testosterone, the differentiation of reproductive organs, and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

This condition in the medical world is known as disorders of sex development (DSD), which in some cases can affect a person's identity and sexual orientation later in life, although it is not always the sole determining factor.

"Damage to chromosomes can indeed be a cause of deviant sexual orientation. This factor cannot be changed but can be overcome with several therapies such as hormone therapy. But in fact there are a number of other factors that cause this and other causes need to be intervened,"

This is what the Andrology, Sexology, and Anti-Aging Expert at Udayana University, Prof. Wimpie Pangkahila, said at the Grand Opening of the Steros Men's Health & Anti-Aging Clinic in Jakarta, Thursday, January 15, 2026.

In this case, Prof. Wimpie emphasized that parents' role remains very crucial in shaping children's understanding of their bodies and sexuality from an early age as a preventive measure against deviant sexual behavior when they grow up.

He assessed that sexual education in the family environment is becoming increasingly important, especially in the midst of the rapid flow of information from social media that is not all true and worthy of being consumed by children.

"Parents should not be negligent. Children should not be allowed to grow with false information just because they are exposed to social media every day. Sex education in the family is very necessary, with explanations that are appropriate for the age of the child," he said.

According to him, sexual education can be given in a simple and gradual manner according to the child's development. For example, when bathing a boy, parents can observe whether the growth of his genitals is normal or there are abnormalities that need to be consulted to medical personnel.

Meanwhile, in girls, questions about menstruation, changes in body shape, to the appearance of acne can be used as a moment of sexual education that is indirect but meaningful.

"Ideally, early intervention needs to be considered. The sooner the better. Parents need to check medical conditions including hormone checks if there are abnormalities in the age range of 12 to 14 years maximum," he explained.

Given that sexual orientation is influenced by various factors, both innate since birth and formed through the social environment. Biological factors cannot be changed, while behaviors that arise as a result of social interaction can be influenced by experiences and social interactions.

He emphasized the importance of a healthy and harmonious family environment in supporting children's psychological development. Children who grow up in families full of conflict, violence, or emotional stress, for example, are at risk of experiencing psychological disorders that can affect the development of their sexual behavior in the future.

For example, if you talk about homosexuality, for some people it can be innate. However, there are also those who are influenced by the environment, for example because of certain social situations. In cases like this, sexual behavior does not always reflect the actual identity or sexual orientation.

"Children who have witnessed domestic violence since childhood can experience inner conflict. For example, he feels he has to side with one parent, and that can form a wrong self-perception," said Prof. Wimpie.

He also reminded parents to keep their attitude and emotions in front of their children.

"If there is a fight, it should not be done in front of the child. Family harmony is very important to ensure that children grow physically and psychologically healthy and balanced," he concluded.