Understand them, don’t judge them
Don’t let porn be a taboo subject to talk about as it can soon become a problem.
It’s okay to feel worried, confused or awkward about talking to your child about pornography, but having these conversations can shape future relationships, body confidence and views on gender.
Most children start watching this because of curiosity around sex. Some however, are shown these things by friends or siblings, so they may need some extra support.
Parents and Guardians shouldn’t judge young adults for what they are watching. They should understand and honestly chat with them.
If your child doesn’t want to talk to you about this then guiding them to places where they can learn about sex without having to watch it is a great way for them to have their curiosity answered.
BISH is a great website for over 14s to help explain a whole range of sex education, including pornography. A link to their website can be found here.
The NSPCC is also there for under 18s to chat to them about this topic. Your child may feel more comfortable talking to someone else about porn or sex. They can call Childline on 0800 1111 for a free, confidential chat.
For adults who are worried about their child’s sexual behaviour, call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.
Some amazing articles to read can be found below:
- The Guardian: How to Talk about Porn to your Kids https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/dec/16/how-talk-children-porn-other-online-harms
- NSPCC: Healthy Sexual Development. https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/sex-relationships/sexual-behaviour-children/
- SafeKids: Now what? https://www.safekids.com/2011/12/17/so-your-kid-is-looking-at-pornography-now-what/#:~:text=There%20are%20a%20number%20of,smoke%20to%20show%20their%20independence.
Generation Feminist 