This article attempts to convey a psychoanalytic understanding of the movement from a body-state where the perceptive - biological - reflex reactions are paramount to a body-state where this is intertwined with the emerging presence of psychic representations and the mentalization processes. The central position of sexuality and gender identification in all this, is highlighted. Through the use of two clinical vignettes, a putative link is attempted between early infantile experiences and psychic constitutions in adult life. Finally the influence of environmental/societal factors on the shaping of individual sexuality is emphasized.