Published: January 04, 2009
I saw this interview on the Today Show a few weeks ago between Matt Lauer and Tyra Banks in regards to teenage girls and sex. The results from Tyra’s survey were very disturbing. In the end, it was noted that most of the younger teenage girls questioned in this survey are having unprotected sex. Some are walking around with an STD and are still choosing to have unprotected sex. Most of their sexual activity is being done in school. And, a very large percentage of these teenage girls wish to become young mothers.
There are several reasons why teenage girls are out here having unprotected sex (or just sex for matter):
Attention. The majority who are out here having sex at such a young age may be looking for attention that they may not be receiving from home. Their parents/parent may be working longer hours to support the family needs or the attention may go to another sibling. Some teen girls even date or have sexual encounters with older men just so they can feel that sense of love and security that they may not receive from their fathers. In many cases, fathers are not represented in the homes. Please don’t get me wrong, single parents who take care of their children are AWESOME! But, it is also a known fact that having a stable two parent home is better for the children.
Some teenage girls watch certain shows or even listen to certain types of music that give the illusion that having a particular lifestyle is the “cool” thing to do. But whether it’s clothes, makeup or changing their personalities to attract a different type of crowd, some teenagers will do whatever is necessary to attain the lifestyle they think is so commanding.
Having a baby will allow them to love someone they way they weren’t. That baby is like a security blanket to them. (Can’t we just buy them a blanket like Linus displayed in the Peanuts cartoons)?
So, what do we do? We already have this important topic advertised everywhere to provide information. But, there are some parents who don’t want others “butting in” to discuss this volatile issue with their teens. Teaching sex education in the classroom has been a controversial topic for years. There are even some parents who may not want their children to know about sex until they feel the time is right. And then you have those who feel a little too uncomfortable discussing the issue one on one. No matter the venue, shouldn’t this topic be discussed, whether they are going to engage in the activity or not? Even more important, shouldn’t the mental and emotional effects from having sex be discussed?
I’d like to think that we adults wouldn’t have to talk about this topic so negatively. Wouldn’t be nice to just simply say, “Wait until you’re married to have sex”? The person receiving that message would just follow the advice. And flowers bloom in an open field and birds begin to sing while you run through the field – PLEASE!
We all know that God loves us unconditionally. But, how do we as adults communicate the message clearly to teenagers that this form of affection at this stage of their lives is just wrong? You’re not married. You have multiple partners. You’re contracting diseases while still having unprotected sex. And, you’re becoming young mothers at an alarming rate! How can the message be conveyed any more clearly than what is already out there?
I think it’s important that we listen to our youth. Hear what it is that they really have to say. Whether we are a parent, guardian, guidance counselor, adult family member or friend, I think if we listen and not condemn, we may be giving them the attention they need. Just have an ear for them first and then possibly give some advice. They’re seeking attention and will do just about anything to get it.
The teenagers who are sexually active and are uneducated about this form of affection need a real wake up call. Apparently, unwanted pregnancy and disease are not scaring them into taking more precautions. Is listening to their voice going to help or are most of these parents out here going to continue becoming young grandparents or even worse, watch their teenager go through something that could have possibly been prevented? My grandmother always used to say that a hard head makes a soft behind! How far are parents going to allow their teens to go before their head cracks or their behind deflates?
Crystal Smith, also known as, (The Essential Consultant), is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and a graduate from Villa Julie (Stevenson University) in Maryland. She has been in the entertainment industry for over twenty years. Crystal is a motivational speaker, a broadcast correspondent and an acting coach. Her motto: “Both determination and positive thinking are the keys to success in your life and you must understand that you have a purpose.” She believes the path to excellence in any industry begins with an inward journey. To speak with Crystal further, please contact her: www.theessentialconsultant.com.
Copyright © 2008 you129.com & Crystal Smith. All rights reserved.