Words Can Work > Issues and Answers > Adolescent Mental Health: Depression



View all issues

Sexual health Kids and oral sex

Preteens and teens performing oral sex is a national trend. Parents are alarmed and baffled. They believe that oral sex is appropriate only for adults. Most consider it a special sexual act that follows other intimate expressions.

Among many young people, oral sex is not considered to be sex. "It's a way to be together without, well, being together," one 14-year-old girl said. "It's 'hooking up.' "

As a parent, you can watch for opportunities to talk with your children about this sensitive issue. You can talk honestly without judging or criticizing. You can help them consider the physical and emotional consequences of their decisions.

Get the story to see what teens and experts say about oral sex among young people.

Learn the facts about making smart choices.
Find the answer offers tips for important conversations.

Next >> Get the story

Next >>

Sexual health   How parents teach
Sexual health   Talking with kids
Sexual health   Growing up gay
Communication   Understanding autism
Eating disorders   A young man's struggle

Read more issues >

	Words Can Work: When Talking With Kids About Sexual Health - Book Families tell true stories about discussing sexual health. Teens, in first-person accounts, take readers into their world.
	In Our Own Words: Teens and AIDS - VHS/DVD Teens infected with HIV through unprotected intercourse discuss denial, condoms, postponing sex, and how alcohol affects decision-making.
See more products >