""We live in an age where social media informs and often defines younger generations' understanding and experience of themselves," said Elana Himmelfarb, an autism spectrum consultant. "Sexuality is part of identity, and HDTRH's son - like all young people - deserves an intentional, calm, fact-based and supportive approach to this new phase of his personal development.""
""The most important thing is creating a climate where there is shared language and a safety zone that allows for open discussions without shame or fear of judgment," said Himmelfarb. "A calm approach, planned discussions, teachable moments, and checking in creates an atmosphere that enables teens to connect meaningfully as they navigate the waters of sexual identity, preference, choice, and safety.""
Social media heavily shapes young people's understanding and experience of themselves. Sexuality is part of identity and requires an intentional, calm, fact-based, and supportive approach during developmental phases. Parents should create a climate of shared language and a safety zone that allows open discussions without shame or fear of judgment. A calm approach, planned discussions, teachable moments, and regular check-ins enable teens to explore sexual identity, preference, choice, and safety. Conversations should be tailored to the individual child because some teens respond to humor, others to facts, and some may become overwhelmed.
Read at Portland Mercury
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