Talking About Sexuality With Your Teen

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Talking about sexuality can be a very uncomfortable topic for parents; especially when addressing the issue with your teen.

Here are some pointers to help you feel more at ease with the topic.

The first step is to recognize your own values and attitudes. Admit to yourself that this is a difficult task, but one you want to deal. Accurate information is a powerful tool. Obtain a good book on sexuality and find out what issues adolescents are worried about. Discuss sexuality issues with your partner or a friend to practice talking about sensitive issues. Relax and enjoy communicating with your child.

How can you discuss sexuality if your child doesn’t ask questions?

Here are some suggestions:

• Really listen when your child is talking. Do not judge or give lectures. Always set aside time to talk and listen to each other.
• Ask your child’s opinion of news stories about issues such as male/female relationships, teenage pregnancy or sexuality on TV.
• Buy a reliable, attractive book on sexuality (or check one out from the library) and leave it where your teen spends time: on the couch by the TV or by the telephone. In a few days ask his or her opinion about the book and a specific topic in the book.
• Watch a television show together and discuss male/female roles and the relationships portrayed.

Diana Milne, MilneD@missouri.edu
Regional Specialist, Human Development
Clay County, Missouri
University of Missouri Extension