04:39
Faizan
It was once fine to cover your kid with kisses, but now that she's a teen, attempts at physical affection might be met with scorn, embarrassment or horror. Though you might yearn to return to the days when boys were gross and mommy was golden, time moves on. Familiarize yourself with the ways your teen does -- and does not -- want to be touched, so you have an idea of what to expect.
Family
For parents and other family members of teenagers, navigating physical touch is a difficult road. According to an article at FamilyCircle.com, budding bodies, confusing sexual emotions and the need to establish independence can make teens shy away from physical contact with family members. However, because teens still need to know their parents love and cherish them -- despite being pushed away -- moms and dads need to find alternative ways to show their love. Instead of bear hugs and sloppy kisses, try side-arm hugs, plopping shoulder to shoulder on the couch to watch videos, hip-bumps, high-fives or playful pushes and taps.
Friends
Teens tend to be much more affectionate with their own peer group than with older relatives. Physical touches might range from hand-slaps and hugs to quick kisses on the cheek or mouth. Depending on the nature of their friendship, some teens might also sit on their friend’s laps, lay their heads on each other’s shoulders and hold hands. Other teens might have special physical routines with teammates or club members.
Significant Others
Teens who are dating might extend physical touch to longer kisses and extended hugs, and “making out,” or even sexual intercourse. Parents should prepare their teens -- and themselves -- for this eventuality by initiating long talks about decisions surrounding sexual intimacy, including emotional attachment, physical and behavioral changes, and preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
Tips and Considerations
Parents should talk to their teens about personal boundaries and respecting their own rights and the rights of others, as they pertain to physical touch. Emphasize that teens must feel comfortable speaking up for themselves, and must be careful to observe verbal and non-verbal cues in regards to other people’s comfort levels. Teach your teen that if she feels uncomfortable with any kind of physical touch -- even if she’s done it before, or has given verbal consent -- she has the right to change her mind and stop at any point.
FamilyFor parents and other family members of teenagers, navigating physical touch is a difficult road. According to an article at FamilyCircle.com, budding bodies, confusing sexual emotions and the need to establish independence can make teens shy away from physical contact with family members. However, because teens still need to know their parents love and cherish them -- despite being pushed away -- moms and dads need to find alternative ways to show their love. Instead of bear hugs and sloppy kisses, try side-arm hugs, plopping shoulder to shoulder on the couch to watch videos, hip-bumps, high-fives or playful pushes and taps.
Friends
Teens tend to be much more affectionate with their own peer group than with older relatives. Physical touches might range from hand-slaps and hugs to quick kisses on the cheek or mouth. Depending on the nature of their friendship, some teens might also sit on their friend’s laps, lay their heads on each other’s shoulders and hold hands. Other teens might have special physical routines with teammates or club members.
Significant Others
Teens who are dating might extend physical touch to longer kisses and extended hugs, and “making out,” or even sexual intercourse. Parents should prepare their teens -- and themselves -- for this eventuality by initiating long talks about decisions surrounding sexual intimacy, including emotional attachment, physical and behavioral changes, and preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
Tips and Considerations
Parents should talk to their teens about personal boundaries and respecting their own rights and the rights of others, as they pertain to physical touch. Emphasize that teens must feel comfortable speaking up for themselves, and must be careful to observe verbal and non-verbal cues in regards to other people’s comfort levels. Teach your teen that if she feels uncomfortable with any kind of physical touch -- even if she’s done it before, or has given verbal consent -- she has the right to change her mind and stop at any point.
Posted in: Teen Dating & Sex
