Why Dad Should Be Involved in the Sex Talk Too

A new review suggests that teens are less likely to have sex if their dads talk to them about the birds and the bees.  “Fathers do make a difference. It's not just about mothers," said lead author Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, a professor and co-director of New York University's Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health.

PLUS: Talking to Kids About Sex

Closeness with fathers at the beginning of one study was significantly associated with daughters delaying having sex for the first time after a year of follow-up. Another study on father-son HIV prevention found that more communication about sex was linked to increased abstinence in the six-month study period, reports HealthDay.

Schools and health-care providers attempt to influence kids when it comes to safe sex practices, but teens say their parents’ viewpoints actually matter most.  According to study authors, when it comes to dads specifically, it seems that their reliable and open presence really contributes to teen kids’ overall health and well-being. 

PLUS: Is Your Tween Too Sexy

Experts believe that striking a balance between protecting and overprotecting is key.  Evidence shows that kids are more likely to have sex earlier if they have either very strict or very easy-going parents. 

Dads, do you talk to your kids about sex? Leave a comment.