Lots of people have questions about sex, especially those in the younger generation. Who is responsible for answering questions about sex? Should a child or teen turn to their friends to learn about sex? Or should they turn to television, movies or music?

I’m 13 and I’ve known about sex since I was 10 years old. Should I ask my parents to tell me about sex, even though I already know?

–YouTube Viewer

Shirking Responsibility

So should a teen ask his or her parents about sex? Some teens – and parents - would answer that question with a resounding, “No!” In fact, many teens get their sex education from their friends, their friends’ parents, comics, video games, movies and music. But it isn’t the entertainment industry’s job to teach kids and teens about sex. It’s the parent’s job. Much in the same way that a parent should teach a child that the stove is hot, a parent should teach their child about sex. Now that doesn’t mean you have to give your kids tips on the best sex positions, but teaching them about why sex should be approached carefully and safely is a parent’s job. STD’s and pregnancy can hurt a teen as much, if not more, than if a child puts their hand on a hot stove. Besides, who wants their kids learning about sex from the backseat of a car in the video game Grand Theft Auto? Have you seen that video game? It’s time for parents to step up and get past their discomfort and talk to their kids about sex. And it’s time for kids to stop thinking it’s “gross” to have your parent give you sex education because well, they might know a thing or two.

Thinking About It?

If you’re thinking about talking to your parents about sex – or if you’re a parent thinking about talking to your kids about sex – go for it. Ditch the discomfort and learn how to be open and honest. Kids – you may have learned about sex from Johnny’s dad’s funny magazine while his parents weren’t home, but that doesn’t mean you know everything about sex. Ask your parents. You don’t necessarily have to tell them you’ve already heard some things about sex, you definitely need to ask them to share their thoughts and opinions with you, as well as the facts. Parents – if your kids ask about sex, answer their questions! You might be shocked at the ages that some kids are coming up with certain types of questions, but you won’t do any good by refusing to answer their questions. Your kids will still be curious, and they’ll end up getting their information elsewhere. Provide your kids with the truth and they’ll respect you for it.

Safer Sex

The only way teens and even adults are going to start having safer sex is if people get over their fears about sex and start talking about it. Talking about how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy is the only way to stop it from happening  – knowlege is power and in this day in age, no one has to be afraid to talk about sex anymore.