Parents as GPS of adolescence
by Mariam Abubakar
It is a cliche to say this is an Internet age, because the world is fully emerged in technology. With every prove ,there is a downside such as the case with teenagers and exposition to social media content . How then do you instill a sense of self reliance while still providing a safety net for your teen? It is weightful to accept that discussing sexuality with teenagers can be a daunting task, and it is perfectly natural for parents to feel apprehension and unease while broaching the subject. The complexity of the topic necessitates a nuanced approach that takes into account the unique challenges and developmental stage of adolescence, as well as the need to foster a safe and open environment for communication.
Equipping teens with the knowledge and awareness to make responsible decisions and safeguard themselves, even when parents are not present, necessitates parental education on sexual health and relationships. Thus, parents should broach the topic of sexuality with compassion, sensitivity, and acceptance, so that teens feel at ease approaching their parents with any queries, without fear of judgment. It is vital for parents to establish a non-judgemental and supportive atmosphere that empowers teenagers to ask questions and communicate openly.
It is of utmost importance for parental figures to engage in meaningful communication with their offspring as they progress through adolescence. Teenagers may conceal information from their guardians due to apprehension of chastisement or uncertainty of their parents’ comprehension of their stance.
In today’s world, parents need to stay aware of what’s happening around them to be good parents to their kids who are growing up surrounded by technology.
Primarily, parents must undertake the task of educating their pubescent progeny regarding the fundamentals of sexual anatomy, the significance of consent, and the hazards of sexually transmitted infections. Furthermore, the psychological and emotional aspects of sexual relations must be addressed, such as the concepts of affection and intimacy. In situations such as this, precise and direct language is of paramount importance. Given the predilection of today’s adolescents for a welcoming learning environment, it is incumbent upon parents to devise a strategy for imparting sensitive information in a manner that is non-intrusive and non-confrontational. By taking their child out on a relaxed excursion and posing open-ended inquiries such as “What have you heard about sexual activity?” or “What aspects of sexuality pique your interest?” parents can glean an understanding of their child’s current knowledge and interests, thereby facilitating a more fruitful discourse. After ascertaining their current understanding of the subject matter, it is advisable for parents to tailor their approach and content to match their child’s level of comprehension. Parents should endeavor to answer all questions he or she might ask, no matter how absurd they may seem, with honesty and age-appropriate language.
It’s imperative for parents to educate their children on the topic of sexual harassment. To begin, explain to them what constitutes sexual harassment – such as unwanted sexual remarks, touches, or images. Emphasise that they are not obligated to tolerate such behaviour and that you are always there for them.
To broach the subject of sexual feelings, begin by inquiring about their existing knowledge of love, romance, and sexuality. Affirm that it is normal for adolescents to experience attraction towards others, and emphasise that this is simply a part of human nature. By validating their feelings and providing reassurance, you can create a safe space for them to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of this sensitive topic.
Parents should convey to their teenage children that they acknowledge the growth of their sexual curiosity and that it is a natural and healthy part of development. However, parents should also emphasise that sexual activity entails more than just physical gratification, and is predicated upon trust, respect, and a sense of commitment.
Furthermore, parents should express empathy for the perplexing nature of adolescence and stress the importance of waiting until they are emotionally, spiritually, physically, and psychologically mature to engage in sexual activity. To close out the conversation, it is vital to reinforce your child’s feelings of support and respect. Express your unconditional love and emphasise that no one can love them more. Let them know that your door is always open for questions and future dialogues, assuring them that they can always rely on you for guidance and enlightenment.
Engaging and open communication between parents and children can greatly reduce the likelihood of risky behavior. When children feel supported and understood by their parents, they are less likely to act impulsively or make poor decisions. Instead, they can rely on their parents for guidance, fostering a strong and supportive relationship that nurtures healthy decision-making. In the end, it’s all about creating a safe space for open dialogue and understanding.
Mariam Abubakar, is a tutor at Foursquare Academy, Nasarawa State. She is currently an undergraduate at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
