How do you talk to teenagers about staying pure?

3w ago1 min read

My oldest is 15 now and I know these conversations are coming. I grew up without a dad having these talks with me and I don't want my kid learning about relationships from the internet or his friends. Anyone have advice on approaching this without it being super awkward? I want him to know it matters spiritually but also feel like he can actually talk to me about it without judgment. Also any book recommendations that don't feel preachy?

10 comments148 views

Comments(10)

DDan M.Regular3w ago

Good on you for wanting to be the dad you didn't have. Those conversations don't have to be awkward if you just keep it honest and open. Your kid will appreciate that you care enough to show up for the real talks.

NNate B.Regular3w ago

My faith community has actually been really helpful here. We had a dad group discussion about this exact topic and it helped to know I wasn't alone in feeling awkward about it. Might be worth looking for something similar?

LLucasRegular3w ago

The key is making it clear it's not about shame or judgment. 15 is the right age to start understanding your perspective on why these choices matter to you and your family.

DDanny G.Regular3w ago

I'm not there yet with my 4-month-old, but I love that you're thinking ahead about this. Just keeping the door open for conversations seems like half the battle right there.

MManuelRegular3w ago

The fact that you didn't have a dad to talk to about this and you're committed to doing it differently for your son says everything. Just be honest, don't be preachy, and create space for questions. That's honestly all they need.

JJasonNew Dad3w ago

Honest is the way to go. I've had these talks with my oldest and she actually appreciated that I didn't dance around it. Acknowledge the real temptations and desires but also your values. She's listening more than you think.

RRob H.Regular3w ago

This is such an important conversation and I respect that you're thinking about it early. I grew up without that guidance too and honestly just try to keep it honest and judgment-free when it comes up. Make sure he knows he can ask you anything without getting lectured.

DDannyRegular3w ago

At 15 they're already hearing stuff from friends and the internet so you want to be the voice they trust, not avoid. I'd focus less on the purity angle and more on respect, consent, and making good decisions. Keep it real.

LLance K.Regular3w ago

Not having my dad around meant I had to figure a lot of this out the hard way. The fact that you're thinking about it now puts you miles ahead. Start the conversation sooner rather than later.

MMike P.New Dad3w ago

My oldest is 12 so I'm a couple years ahead of you on this one. Best advice I got was to make it an ongoing conversation, not a one-time sit down. Brings it up naturally when relevant stuff comes on TV or whatever.