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NYCAAP-AIDS-parents-sex

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GENNEWS

SIDE BAR FOR NYCAAP AIDS STORY

Mom and Dad, Can We Talk?

If you're like most teens, you probably cringe at the thought of talking to

your parents about sexual matters. Most likely, you're afraid of the response

you'll get to touchy subjects like AIDS, contraception and pregnancy. You just

know your parents aren't cool enough to handle your questions or concerns.

But if you know how to deal with the uneasiness, talking to your parents might

not be as difficult as you think. Start by telling them how embarrassed or

nervous you feel about discussing sensitive subjects with them.

Another way to break the ice is to wait for a "talkable moment" when you can

tie the subject to something you saw on TV or heard at school. Try something

like this: "Mom, I heard there's a new drug being tested that might help treat

people with AIDS." Or, "There's a rumor going around that Jane is pregnant."

The idea is to get the conversation going, and then you can bring up your

questions or concerns.

If you start the conversation and your parents change the subject, don't be

too discouraged. You've sent the signal that you'd like to talk, so try again

later. They may need time to think about how to respond.

And if you're concerned that your parents will assume you've having sex or

taking drugs if you want to discuss those topics, you can reassure them by

saying, "Please don't think I'm having sex just because I have some questions

about AIDS." Let them know that you are just trying to get correct information

from a reliable and trusted source.

- From Straight Talk, A Magazine For Teens