Sex Ed (for Parents)

JOYCE LAM
Editor in Chief
Lately, teenage sex may seem anything but normal—for parents, at least. On the contrary, I think that teenage sex is more “acceptable” now, than it was before. Although parents may feel the striking fear of their child being involved with a significant other, let alone having sex at such an early age, new studies have shown that teens who are involved and committed in relationships, even sexually active ones, perform just as well in school as those who abstain from sex.
So, how can that be? It appears that being involved in a significant, genuine relationship is actually an encouraging factor to perform well and succeed in school. However, this doesn’t apply to those who are involved in a “one night stand” or a “hook-up.” Those involved in these casual, in-the-moment flings have a tendency to earn lower grades and are more likely to have trouble in school.
Having sex is a personal decision, and teens have to keep in mind the risks it carries when making that decision. I’m not advocating teenage sex, but I do believe that mature, responsible teens are capable of maintaining both grades and healthy relationships.