Communicating about sex : perspectives of parents and young people

Abstract

Effective communication about sexuality between parents and young people is essential in providing adolescents with information, and the necessary support in nurturing values for sexual decision-making and responsible sexual behaviour. Although this seems clear and straightforward, it is a daunting experience for most parents and communicating about sex with their teenagers can be a challenging experience. This research aims to investigate the patterns in communication about sex between parents and young people, what is hindering effective communication about sex, with whom young people prefer to communicate about sex and why, and who from the perspective of both parents and adolescents is responsible for educating young people about sex. Findings from a survey (N=596) conducted by the Programme of Youth Studies, in which I took part, were used to support and answer some of the research questions. Focus Group Discussions with two groups of parents and two groups of young people were also conducted to explore more in-depth research questions such as what is hindering effective communication. Recommendations are also proposed to better and facilitate parent-adolescent communication.