How To Talk To Teens About Sex As Parents

By Lucia Weeks


Teens would learn stuff on sex whether parents talk to them about it or not. How to talk to teens about sex can be an issue for parents who are not comfortable with the subject. Teenagers learn sex issues at school and from their peers, and so if parents fail to give them the right information, they would take whatever they get from outside the home. It is the responsibility of parents to shape the beliefs of their young ones, even on sex matters.

Talking to teenagers on sex should not be a one-time event, but rather a progressive process. The sex conversation should be structured in such a way that it fits into everyday life. The conversations should be short, but done often. This would help remind teens why they have been taught about sex.

You need to prepare before talking to teens about sex. Read the subject, and get more information, and get answers to your own questions before talking to your teen. There are age-appropriate books on sex for parents. You can also practice what you want to discuss with your spouse or partner. This will make it easier to get over any embarrassment when the time comes to talk with your teen.

The sex education for teens can begin with basic topics. Such as the male and female reproduction systems. The parent can then go ahead to explain issues on sexual intercourse and associated consequences such as pregnancy STDs and the emotional consequences. The parent can also take time to explain the effects drugs and alcohol have on sexual decisions. Parents should be able to seize the right opportunity to raise the topic on sex with teenagers. The discussion can be started anytime, like when watching television, in at grocery shopping or when washing dishes together. It is important to choose a moment that the teen is likely to be paying more attention.

Openness is very important when talking to teenagers. The parent has to explain all questions to the best of their ability. If for any reason the parent does not have immediate answers to teen's questions, attempts should be made to get the answers as soon as possible.

Try to give your teen factual information on the subject you are discussing. Your teen needs accurate information. They may learn about the subject in school and giving them inaccurate information may confuse them. Provide accurate information and be very specific with regards to how your beliefs and values either agree with or differ relating to sex. Also be clear about your feelings concerning specific issues and present the risks objectively.

The talk on sex should be in the form of a discussion where teens can have the opportunities of asking questions and also express their views. This way, they will learn better. Trying to lecture them may not be the best option, because the parent cannot be sure the teen is listening.

It is important to select an approach that would work when talking to teenagers about sex. The approach for girls has to be different from boys, and likewise for different age groups. A parent can also get materials and leave them in the room of the teens where they can easily see.




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