Adolescent Sexuality: A Guide for Parents of Troubled Teens

It can be challenging and uncomfortable for both parents and teens to talk about sexuality. But in the modern world, where information is easy to find, and views about sex are ever-changing, it's more important than ever to talk openly and honestly. This blog will provide you with tips for talking to your teen in a way that decreases the awkwardness while also introducing you to our Liahonna team, who can provide you with advanced support. At Liahona Treatment Center, we give teens a new beginning, allowing them to thrive in a supportive atmosphere that offers a multifaceted approach to meeting their needs. We also work closely with you as the parent, introducing you to new and effective ways to create boundaries and encourage communication with your teen. Continue reading to learn more.

Education Is Key

Before you talk to your teen about sex, you should learn as much as you can about the topic. Stay up to date on what's going on with sexual health, birth control, and the emotional side of teen interactions. This information will help you feel more at ease when talking to your child about these things.

Pay Attention to Timing

In order to get the most from your communication with your teen, you need to choose the right time. This means finding a time when both of you are calm and open to talking and when you won’t be interrupted by family members or appointments. For instance, ask your teen to go for a walk or ride, giving you ample opportunity to discuss the topic. This also means ignoring technology and fully focusing on the conversation.

Practice Active Listening

Too many parents go into the conversation as if it's a one-way street. However, it will go better if you allow your teen sufficient time to discuss their feelings and thoughts. That’s right. It's just as important to listen as it is to talk. Encourage your teen to talk about what they think, feel, and wonder about sex. Don't cut them off or begin formulating a response before they're done. They will notice your lack of focus and wonder if you genuinely want to listen or simply dictate your opinion.

Use Age-Appropriate Words

Change how you talk to fit your teenager's age and level of development. Use clear, easy-to-understand words and sentences. Don't make the conversation too hard to understand by using a lot of technical jargon or graphic details. Start with the basics, and then let your teen's questions drive the conversation.

Discuss the Importance of Healthy Relationships

It's vital to stress the importance of good relationships, consent, and communication. Talk about how important it is to follow boundaries and know the signs of a bad or abusive relationship. Also, teach your teen about equal consent to ensure they understand their feelings matter.

Don’t Invade Their Privacy

Even though it's important to talk openly about sex, it's also important to give your teen space. Tell them you are ready to answer questions and provide help, but don't pry into their lives or invade their privacy. This can be difficult as a parent, but if you can be patient, your teen will not only appreciate the respect but feel more comfortable to share when they’re ready.

Explore Values Without Mandates

It’s important to share what your family thinks about sex, relationships, and being responsible, but it’s also important to give your teen room to come up with their own ideas. Encouraging them to think critically and make good decisions while giving them a moral framework will go far beyond just the sex talk. It gives them the support they need for future problem-solving in all areas of their lives.

Be Ready to Answer Questions

You can expect your teen to have a lot of questions about sex. Some may be easy to understand, while others may be more difficult. Be honest and patient when you answer these questions. If you don't know the answer, you could offer to help them find it. In addition, don’t forget to follow up with them. Sex is a complicated part of life that changes over time. Don't think of the talk as a one-time thing. Keep the lines of communication open, and be ready to talk about it again as your teenager ages and faces new problems and challenges.

Reach Out For Help if Needed

Parents in today’s world need to be able to talk about teen sexuality without making things awkward. You can help your teen handle this part of their life with confidence, knowledge, and a strong sense of responsibility by learning about it yourself, making sure the setting is safe and respectful, and keeping the lines of communication open. Remember that as a parent, it's not your job to make decisions for your teenager. Instead, it's your job to give them the knowledge and support they need to make smart choices about their sexual health and relationships. You can gain the support you need for these difficult conversations and more with the help of our team at Liahona Academy. Not only that, but we can be the light you need if your teen is experiencing difficult behaviors and you’re not sure where to turn. We understand that raising teens today is more challenging than ever and want to be the support you need to ensure your teen has the best shot possible at thriving for years to come. Contact us today to learn more.