It’s tough to think of a subject that’s more embarrassing to talk to your parents about than porn. So you can be pretty sure your teenage son or daughter isn’t going to bring it up. That’s why you need to. Because porn is now so accessible online that most teenagers (and some preteens) are seeing it, and they can get some seriously misleading ideas about sex from a diet of porn.

This week on childmind.org we talk to some experts about how watching porn, often before they’ve had real sex, can give kids unrealistic and harmful expectations — for themselves as well as their partners. We offer some tips on how to raise the issue and how to know if a porn habit has become a problem. We also round up other pieces about how to encourage healthy romantic relationships.

Caroline Miller, Editorial Director | ✉

Talking to Teenagers About Porn

Why it's important to counter misleading and unhealthy ideas about sex.

READ MORE ▸

Teens and Romantic Relationships

Some DOs and DON'Ts to share with your teens.

READ MORE ▸

How to Talk to Kids About Sex and Consent

When it comes to sex, setting boundaries and respecting them are both important.

READ MORE ▸

Helping Girls Deal With Unwanted Attention

Why taking it seriously is important.

READ MORE ▸

Teaching Kids About Boundaries

Why empathy and self-awareness play a major role.

READ MORE ▸

Join us

Manage your email

We have a lot going on at the Child Mind Institute! To keep you informed, we produce a variety of email newsletters about our clinical programs, our neuroscience research mission, new articles on childmind.org and upcoming events.

Get the information that works for you.

MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION ▸