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Teen Sexuality | Teen Sexuality Part 2

The Facts about Sexual Activity:

How do you approach your teen with regard to sexuality?

The best way to approach your teen is an honest one.

Let your teen know that there are many ways to express intimacy and attraction. Spending time with another person, simply holding hands and kissing are all ways to show someone you are attracted to them and to explore physical intimacy without necessarily engaging in intercourse.

As time goes on most teens will probably start wanting to express their intimacy at other levels. Most teens are actually open to discussing sex and different sexual acts, as they attempt to sort out what their sexual boundaries are, and what is and is not OK when it comes to sexual intimacy.

It is important that you discuss with your teen the difference between sexual intercourse, petting or touching and other forms of intimacy. Masturbation is also a topic that is highly sensitive and considered by many to be 'taboo' but is an important subject nonetheless.

It is vital that your teen understand that masturbation is a normal process and part of growing up. A healthy interest in such activities may prevent your teen from seeking out other more intimate encounters.

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Establishing Guidelines and Boundaries:

One job you will be tasked with as a parent is helping your teen understand what type of sexual activity is considered acceptable and what type may violate the rights of others.

Teens have to understand that both parties have to be mature enough to accept, acknowledge and agree to any type of intimate actions they are pursuing. Sex is many things, not simply intercourse. Other activities, including masturbation and oral sex, even anal sex, are all considered sex. Kissing and other forms of petting are often categorized as types of sexual activity. They can lead to potential further actions however.

It is important that teens do only those things they are mature enough to consider, well educated about and things they agree on/are comfortable with.

Teens should also understand that sex that is forced on someone who doesn't want it is rape, and it is a serious crime. Feelings about sex are often very confusing during the teen years. Some teens may not realize what they consider a simple act of sexuality may be considered rape. It is important that teens know that “No” means “No” and that they should never force someone to do something that would make them uncomfortable or that steps outside of their boundaries.

Teens should also feel comfortable talking to their parent if any adult puts them in a situation that makes them feel uncomfortable in a sexual way.

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By communicating with your teen early on about sex and sexuality, you will help establish a trusting relationship that will prevent your teen from avoiding you and instead encourage them to approach you if someone solicits them in an inappropriate manner.

Teen Health Issues and Contraception:

Teens are just as likely, if not more likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease from unprotected sexual intercourse.

Your conversations with your teen should include adequate information on STD's and protection. Despite your best efforts at education, your teen will ultimately decide when they feel they are ready for intercourse. This may be at an age that is much younger than you would prefer or deem acceptable.

“The best thing you can do short of educating your teen is ensure that they are adequately informed and protected, both against disease and unwanted pregnancy. ”

“Be sure you inform your teen of the dangers of STD's, including potential complications such as infertility. Let them know that many STD's such as Herpes are incurable, and once they contract them, they will have them for a lifetime. ”

“Also introduce your teen to methods of contraception including the use of condoms and if necessary, birth control pills. If you feel your teen may be sexually active, you might consider accompanying them to your healthcare provider's office. Sometimes your health care provider can provide better information about contraception and help your teen make smart choices, particularly if you are uncomfortable about the issue. ”

Teen Sexuality an Over View:

Teen sexuality is a complex process influenced by many factors. During the teen years your child will be battling many opposing forces. They will be attempting to establish a gender identity, their sexual orientation and attempting to manage the physical and emotional changes that are rapidly occurring in their body.

Teens will develop a sense of their own sexuality. If you approach sex and education with an open and honest mind set, you will establish a trusting and caring relationship with your teen. This will help them develop a normal, satisfying and mature sexual identity later in life.

Remember that it is normal for teens to want to begin experimenting when they are young, but also remember that most lack the maturity to understand the severe consequences of sexual behavior.

Be sure you talk with your teen honestly and help educate them about the consequences of sex, and the potential harm that can arise from unprotected sexual intercourse. By doing so you will help ensure they are provided with reliable and trustworthy information. You can also work with them to encourage them to delay serious sexual contact until they are mature enough to make save and positive decisions.

Teen Sexuality | Teen Sexuality Part 2