Teen Sexuality and The National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy

As I've shared here in my blog as well as on my website, alot of my work with teenagers, parents and educators involves discussion around teen sexuality.  This week is Teen Pregnancy Prevention Week as designated by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unwanted Pregnancy, and thus inspires today's post.

So, as I see it ...

Sexuality is simply the vehicle through which I am able to connect with teens quickly and build rapport easily. Once the door is open, amazing things happen, including enlightening conversations about whatever teen issue you can think of, why teens do what they do and make the choices they make.

I totally, completely, 100% endorse comprehensive sexuality education for teens. Although this is difficult for some parents to hear, based on my first hand experience wth teens, there is simply no room for argument.

Teens need accurate information about sexuality, healthy relationships, sexual health, pregnancy prevention and decision making.  The process should begin in elementary school  with an open discussion about puberty and continue through high school and through the early 20's when the brain is fully dseveloped.

Teens will withdraw completely or censor their conversations with parents when they begin to get curious about sexuality (and alcohol and drugs). When I survey teens in 8-12th grade classrooms, the results are pretty clear and consistent. The two most popular reasons teen give me when I ask them why this happens are: 1) they feel as if their curiousity is not in line with parents' values and don't want to disappoint their parents and 2) they fear punishment (particularly around social groups, activities and restrictions) related to being curious or exploring their curiousity.

Another thing I feel strongly about is that in order for teens to reach their fullest potential, teens need support to help them overcome limiting beliefs they may have picked up in childhood that stand in the way of healthy self esteem, pursuing their purpose and realizing their dreams.

Here's where my coaching and hypnosis comes in ... not just for teens, but for adults as well. And not just in the realm of sexuality.

All that said, back to practical, accurate information around teen pregnancy prevention. Check out this link to the National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy Quiz at www.stayteen.org

Pass it on to the teens you know, love, inspire. Post it on your social media page. Pass it on to parents of teens you know. Encourage teens to pass it on to their peers.

Teens need accurate, unbiased information upon which to base their decisions. Teens need accurate, unbiased information so they can support their friends in making healthy decisions.

For more information on teen pregnancy prevention, and teen related issues, visit two of my favorite websites: www.teenpregnancy.org and www.advocatesforyouth.org

For more information about coaching, hypnosis or my work, contact me at [email protected]