Family Sexuality Education

October is Family Sexuality Education month. If you have already started talking with your teen, this is a good time to gather new information and continue those conversations. If you haven't talked with your teen about sexuality before, this is a great time to begin. For many parents, talking about sexuality is difficult, and it is hard to acknowledge their teenager's developing sexuality. Yet, we know that in families that have open communication about contraception and sexuality, teenagers are more responsible about their sexual behavior. Teens want to know what their parents think, and need to know that parents care about how they feel. Be involved with your teen's developing romantic interests: ask questions about friends and romance. Listen to your teen's point of view, while making your values and expectations clear.

Many adults fear that talking with teenagers about sexuality will encourage them to have sex. However, research shows that sexuality education does not cause young people to have sex. Teens need tools to make healthy choices about their sexuality - and it is important that they hear from you what your concerns and values are. It is important to stay involved in their lives - to listen to their concerns, and remember what it was like when you were a teen. Sexuality is a big part of growing up. Teens need their parents to be involved with them as they grow and develop.

This issue of Ups & Downs was contributed by Stephen T. Russell, Ph.D. Assistant Yough Development Specialist Cooperative Extension Specialist, University of California, Davis. Ups & Downs is edited by Stephen T. Russell, Ph.D., Assistant Youth Development Cooperative Extension Specialist, University of California, Davis.