Consistencies and Discrepancies in Communication Between Parents and Teenage Children About Sexuality

Authors

  • Teresita María Sevilla Pontificia Universidad Javeriana de Cali
  • Juan Pablo Sanabria Pontificia Universidad Javeriana de Cali
  • Linda Teresa Orcasita Pontificia Universidad Javeriana de Cali
  • Diana Marcela Palma Pontificia Universidad Javeriana de Cali

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-43272664201601

Abstract

The family is one of the most important socializing agents in adolescent sex education. However, multiple barriers to communication within families have been identified. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize and understand the processes by which parents and their adolescent children communicate about sexuality. Two questionnaires were completed by 711 fathers/mothers and 566 male/female students in 21 schools in Cali (Colombia), and 15 discussion groups were formed. The results showed that conversations about sexuality focused on protection for women and on sexuality promotion for men. Furthermore, it was found that greater fluency exists in father/son and mother/daughter conversations. The largest discrepancy between parents and teenagers was the adults' belief that it is sufficient to mention certain topics in a directive manner and the children's expectations that parents will discuss the value and dynamics of the sexual experience. Embarrassment and lack of communication tools hinder communication processes.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Downloads

Published

2016-08-01

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Sevilla, T. M., Sanabria, J. P., Orcasita, L. T., & Palma, D. M. (2016). Consistencies and Discrepancies in Communication Between Parents and Teenage Children About Sexuality . Paidéia (Ribeirão Preto), 26(64), 139-147. https://doi.org/10.1590/1982-43272664201601