Transitioning Times

Many parents are not comfortable talking to their kids about sex, even though they might want them to know about the changes going on in their developing bodies, the feelings that they will start to have toward the bodies of others, the importance of self-control, birth-control, and how to prevent sexually transmitted infections.  Still, no matter how awkward these talks may be, communicating to your children in an affirming, respectful way really help kids form strong values and make healthier decisions. Some parents, guardians, and teachers have expressed concern that talking to kids about sex and their developing bodies may give them the wrong idea!  However, Karofsky (2000), cites that studies show that teens whose parents talked to them about their sexuality in a warm and caring way were not only less likely to engage in adolescent sexual intercourse, but also less likely to use drugs or become depressed than their fellow teens who were either negatively informed o...

            Did you know that a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that 72% of 8 th and 9 th grade student are “dating”?  This fact can be frightening to parents of teens at this age and lead parents to wonder if their children will be safe in their relationships.  This April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the focus has been placed on adolescents and preventing sexual violence in these relationships by addressing healthy sexuality and healthy relationships.             Healthy sexuality is the ability to responsibly, understand and control one’s sexual behavior.  Sexuality is not merely sex, but includes values, attitudes, beliefs, feelings, behaviors, and interactions.  A discussion on healthy sexuality should focus on gender norms and inequality, as well as consent, healthy relationships, and boundaries.  Discussing healthy sexuality wi...