Sexuality Education in the Family
In modern societies, families are seen as the main agents responsible for transmitting values, beliefs, norms, knowledge, and attitudes to their members. Accordingly, parents have an important role in educating children regarding sex, sexuality, and relationships.
Research shows that many families do not openly communicate about these topics, making them taboo subjects. This lack of openness can lead to several negative consequences for adolescents' and young people's health and wellbeing.
Adult Sexual Functioning
Adult sexual functioning refers to a person's ability to engage in sexual activities without any problems related to physical, psychological, or social aspects. Poor sexual functioning may result from various factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, chronic disease, medications, etc. In some cases, it may be linked to family communication about sex during childhood and adolescence.
The Role of Families
Families play a crucial role in shaping children's sexual development and helping them understand the importance of sex education. When parents discuss sexual matters with their children at home, they provide a safe environment where kids can ask questions, learn about risks, acquire skills to make informed decisions, and get support to navigate different situations. These talks help children feel comfortable talking about sex and know how to communicate their needs and preferences with partners later on. Conversely, when families avoid conversations about sex, children might seek information from unreliable sources, such as pornography, peers, social media, or the internet. As a result, they may develop harmful beliefs and attitudes that could negatively impact their future relationships.
Impact on Adult Sexual Functioning
When families do not talk about sex, this may lead to various outcomes. Children who have had limited or no discussions with their parents tend to have more difficulty establishing healthy romantic relationships in adulthood. They may lack necessary knowledge and experience to build satisfying intimacy and experience difficulties expressing themselves, negotiating boundaries, and resolving conflicts. This can also affect their physical performance and cause sexual dysfunction.
Individuals who have never learned about contraception are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, which may increase the risk of unwanted pregnancies, STIs/STDs, HIV, etc. Moreover, they may struggle to deal with embarrassment and anxiety during intimate encounters due to a lack of self-esteem.
Family communication about sex is essential for children's healthy development and adult sexual functioning. Parents should take initiative and start early by answering questions honestly and openly.
Schools, community centers, and other institutions must collaborate with families to provide comprehensive education programs and facilitate safe environments where young people can learn and practice different aspects of their sexuality.
Research should continue investigating the impact of family communication about sex on child and adolescent wellbeing to inform interventions, policies, and laws that promote positive sexual health.
How does family communication about sex impact adult sexual functioning?
Family communication about sex is an important aspect of an individual's sexual development, as it influences their understanding of gender roles and expectations, attitudes towards sexuality, and their ability to form healthy relationships. It can also shape how they communicate with partners and navigate intimate situations. Therefore, having open discussions about sex within the family can promote positive sexual functioning and improve relationship satisfaction throughout adulthood.