Commonly, we see teens having issues with their bodies and raging hormones. Some of the hormones are directed toward their new-found knowledge about sex. Learning and practicing sexual behavior can go rogue sometimes, and teens happen to give in to it.
But what factors influence sexual behavior in teens? To understand this, doctors say that the brains of teens are not fully mature. The risk factor that we as adults choose to consider lacks in teens, and as a result, they are likely to perform activities that seem to satisfy them. In this blog, we are going to understand the factors that influence sexual behavior in teens.
Transparency In Family
Home is where children can freely express themselves and learn to grow. Family dynamics play an important role in sexual behavior in teens. Adolescence is the most difficult phase of life and needs to be tackled cautiously.
When questions about sex are hushed inside the home, children seek other resources for answers. And these answers are half-baked, which can not only be dangerous but also affect their lifetime.
Creating a strong relationship with your teenagers may be a little difficult, but addressing their concerns about sexual health can protect them from unwanted consequences. Children are supposed to come home for help and not seek answers outside of their safe environment. If children cannot trust their parents to understand them, then they might think no one will understand them.
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Peer Influence And Social Norms
Society plays a great deal in the minds of teens. Having worried about their looks and their interests, or always looking back on their shoulder as if someone is judging them. These are the signs that teenagers need to have self-confidence and believe in themselves. Friends with a higher number of sexual encounters are not a cool thing, but friends with sensible decisions are definitely good.
Social norms about teen pregnancy, contraception, periods, safe sex, STIs, and HIV should be educated, not considered taboo. As parents, teachers, community service providers, and healthcare providers, it is their responsibility to make teens understand these challenges and encourage healthy sexual behaviors. This will help foster a supportive environment and break down social norms.
Media Influence And Technology
With the digital age in the picture, there is everything on the internet for teens to look up to. Answers to their assignments, sexual fantasies, or social media platforms for unrealistic goals These factors heavily affect the minds of teens and can create a barrier between them and their families.
Smartphones are an accessory to communication, not a privilege. Teenagers tend to look for attention and often get carried away with it. To ensure the safe use of technology, teach your children about the good and bad influences. It is also important to keep a check on their screen time and encourage media literacy so that teens can make informed decisions about their sexual health.
Socio-Economic Factors
Teens who come from low-income families have limited access to resources on sexual health. especially when there is a barrier in the educational system, healthcare facilities, or community centers.
Lack of access to proper sex education can obliterate teens’ sexual behavior. Moreover, religious and cultural beliefs on premarital sex, abortion, and masturbating play a vital role in their attitude.
Free education on sexual health, consultations with professional healthcare providers, and an inclusive discussion can go a long way in nurturing adolescents’ minds. Society as a whole should take part in this initiative and help children. A question answered today can save the consequences for tomorrow.
Past Experiences
Having been exposed to child abuse or domestic violence can affect the sexual behavior of teenagers drastically. Dealing with trauma can be very painful, and sometimes releasing that pain through sexual behaviors seems like a solution for teenagers.
These tactics may even worsen the damage that has already been done. Effective communication and building trust with these teenagers can help to heal the inner child and engage in a safe space.
Connecting them through their hobbies or interests can be the key to initiating the conversation about their experience. Offering them non-judgmental opinions or advice can influence their sexual behavior.
Read More: Social Anxiety Disorder In Teens – Types Of Social Anxiety Disorder
