Many parents and teenagers find it difficult to talk about sexuality and especially sexual promiscuity. It is often difficult for parents to broach the subject of sexuality under normal circumstances and more difficult if a parent suspects that a child is sexually promiscuous. It is important for parents to understand that the avoidance of the topics of sexuality and promiscuous sexuality is often as risky as the behavior itself. Not only can sexual promiscuity cause serious health problems for an adolescent, it can also damage self-esteem and emotional health.
Statistical information on sexual promiscuity
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 36.9 percent of fourteen-year-olds have engaged in sexual activity–more than one out of three. Among 12th graders, 66.4 percent have engaged in sexually promiscuous activities. Among adolescents, there are three million cases of sexually transmitted diseases and approximately one million pregnancies. HIV infection is now the sixth leading cause of death among persons aged 15-24. Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia.
Reasons teenagers may engage in sexually promiscuous activity
Sexual promiscuity may become an outlet for a struggling teenager’s frustrations much the same way drugs and alcohol are used as outlets. In many respects, therefore, sexual promiscuity can become a drug–a way to escape negative feelings and emotional confusion. In some cases, sex can be used as a weapon or defense. An adolescent might see sexual promiscuity as a way of showing parents that he or she is “free” or someone who can do whatever they want.
Results and effects of sexually promiscuous behavior
Sexual promiscuity carries with it significant health risks for the participating adolescents including pregnancy, HIV, AIDS and cervical cancer. However, less well understood are the emotional and psychological consequences of such risky behavior. Incidents of depression are significantly higher in adolescents that engage in sexually promiscuous behavior. Additionally, such activity has been linked to lowered self-esteem and other emotional health problems.
What should a parent do if he or she believes their child is engaging in sexually promiscuous behaviors?
If you believe your teenager is engaging in sexually promiscuous behavior, seek help from competent professionals immediately. Havenwood specializes in treating teenagers who are engaging in sexually promiscuous behavior. We would be happy to consult with you to determine how we can help–CALL NOW.
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Eric Allred was born and raised in Rigby, Idaho. He grew up on a family farm where he learned the value of work. He graduated from Rigby High School and attended Rick’s College, now known as BYU-Idaho. He received his bachelor’s degree in journalism from Utah State University, received a master’s degree in organizational behavior and human relations from the University of Phoenix and a second master’s degree in marital and family therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute. Eric has been involved in Rotary and was president of a local Rotary Club. He enjoys being with his family and doing outdoor activities such as fly fishing.
Chase was very fortunate to start in this industry as a struggling 17 year old kid looking for a mentor and something to be passionate about. Wilderness therapy was Chase’s first stop in this industry and was truly a transcendental experience for him. Chase has an enormous love for this line of work and the power that it has in creating change in everyone involved. Chase’s biggest belief is the power a mentor, strong, healthy relationships, and accountability can have on anyone, especially youth. Taking a very relational approach to his work, Chase has always been very relatable to the students he works with. Being able to understand and relate to a vast variety of the same struggles as a lot of the students he works with has been able to help him continue to grow, learn, and teach. Chase believes that with great rapport and trust, he can use his experience to continue to coach and train new staff, and has the ability to find those staff with the passion for this industry, and help them grow. His love and passion can be felt the moment you talk with Chase about this industry and he passes that on to others he works with. In his spare time you will find Chase cheering for the Eagles, Yankees, and Mavericks, hanging out with his brother, learning more about Eastern Psychology, and continuing to grow and learn.