Why is Sex So Important to Teens?

Sex. It's a very big thing. It's how we all got here. And for some, it's something that makes us feel uncomfortable talking about, especially to our parents and other adults. Ew. However, when it comes to teens, it seems that sex is at the top of the list of things to think/ talk about. Many teenagers (both male and female) think about sex frequently. Now, that doesn't mean they're weird, creepy, or a freak, but they could just be curious about sex. They could think about what it would be like, who they would have sex with, and just about every little detail imaginable. But just because teens think about sex and are curious about it, does not mean that all teens are sexually active.

The biggest reason as to why sex is on the teenage mind is because of hormones. Yes, I said it. But that's a huge part in the development of youth, and probably the number one reason why sex is on the minds of teenagers. They are going through a time in their lives when not only are their physical appearances changing, but their brains are developing and hormones are starting to kick their asses. Pimples pop up, periods happen, and growth of body parts and hair occur. It's an awkward time for people, especially when you don't develop the same way or at the same pace as others around you. But during this awkward phase, many kids like to think about starting a relationship with someone else. It's a good way to help many kids feel good about themselves during their awkward stage; a shoulder to cry on, someone to talk to, etc. But this is where some parents start to get worried because raging hormones + significant other = SEX (parent logic). But I guess parents do have every right to be worried because they were teens once themselves, and they know how teens act during that "awkward stage".

Of course. There may be 13 and 14 year olds out there that think about sex or are curious about it, but very very few of them would actually participate in sexual activities at that age. If anything, holding hands and kissing are about as much as a 13 or 14 year old are going to do. However, a 15 or 16 year old may start exploring more "activities" with their significant other. Making out, touching each other, and maybe even sex itself all become more popular in this age range than at a younger age. Nonetheless, there are always exceptions to every rule; meaning there could very well be 13-14 year olds engaging in sexual acts or sex itself whereas there may be 16 year olds that haven't even touched anyone before! With that being said, it all comes down to the individual and their beliefs, values, morals, preferences, etc. Not everyone is the same when it comes to being intimate or being involved with someone else. Some may want to keep to themselves while others may want to experiment with many different people. Both are fine, just as long as every party involved is okay with what is taking place, feels comfortable in activities happening, and are smart/careful about the decisions they're making.

I want to wrap up this article by saying that no matter what age anyone decides to have sex, all parties involved need to be safe, smart, and consensual. If you're going to have sex, use a condom. If you're going to have sex, make sure you're completely ready for the commitment and consequences that can potentially come along with it. And last, but certainly most important; make sure that both people involved consent to sex before engaging in the activity. No means no and if either person feels uncomfortable or unready then that means no sex. No means no. It's as simple as that.