Rural parents' communication with their teen-agers about sexual issues

This survey assessed rural parents' (n=374) perceptions of the characterist ics, content. and comfort level of discussions about sexual issues with the ir teens. Almost all parents (94%) reported they had talked with their teen s about sex. Two-thirds (65%) reported being comfortable talking with their teens about sexual issues. From a list of 17 potential topical areas in se xual communication parents were most likely to discuss with their teens the responsibilities of being a parent ((46%), sexually transmitted diseases ( 40%) dating behavior (37%), and not having sex until marriage (36%). Most p arents (80%) believed that the majority of sexuality education should be pr ovided by the family and supplemented by outside organizations preferably s chools. Almost all parents (92%) believed sexuality education should includ e information on birth control methods including condoms. Almost two of thr ee parents (64%) believed schools should begin teaching sexuality education before students reach seventh grade. Parents (52%) claimed they could best be helped in communicating wish their teens by receiving a regular newslet ter regarding teen sexual issues.