Should I talk to my child about sex?

Many of us remember the dreaded "birds and bees" talk we had with our parents. Personally, it was an awful, awkward, uncomfortable twenty minute conversation that I wish to erase from my memory. Whether parents like it or not, the teen years are a time of sexual exploration. Each child is different and matures in their own way, but sexual exploration is natural and appropriate at each stage of development. Experts agree that when parents teach their children about sex, children are more apt to make responsible, informed choices regarding their own sexual behavior. 

A study conducted by researchers at University of Southern California found that middle school students who received a "sext" were 6 times more likely to report being sexually active. Another study found that 10-15 year olds who sent more than 100 sexts per day were more likely to be sexually active. When children are exposed to sex at such a young age, it puts them at risk for teen pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and other sexual health risks. It can also make them more prone to sexual addiction, as young people tend to be less educated about healthy sexual behaviors. Sexual addiction is  a concern for teens who have experienced sexual abuse, whose homes tend to avoid talking about sexuality, and those who experience shame. A good way to avoid these issues is educating your children at a young age. It is important for parents to have open communication about sex with their children, and not to shame their children for asking questions about sex. 

It is never too soon to start educating your children about sex. If you think your child is engaging in unhealthy behaviors, talk to them! Provide accurate information for your child and help them to set values for healthy, responsible decision making when it comes to sex.

References:

"Teen Sex Addiction" from TeenPaths.org http://www.teenpaths.org/teen_sex_addiction.htm

"Teen Sexting, Sexual Behavior, and Sexual Addiction" by Robert Hunt http://paradigmmalibu.com/teen-sexting-sexual-behavior-sexual-addiction/