A watchful close eye of parents on the whereabouts of their teenage children helps preserve their virginity longer. Parental influence seems to be particularly strong among girls. Researchers form the University of California, San Francisco, USA conducted a study, which included 307 teenagers (14 to 18 years) who had not had sex. They interviewed the teenagers about their attitudes toward sex and whether they intended to have sex in the next 6 months. Teenagers also answered questions about their friends' sexual behaviour and whether their parents successfully kept tabs on where they were and when they were not at home. Overall, teenagers whose parents truly knew their whereabouts, were less likely to have sex in the near future. When teenagers were interviewed again 6 months later, some said they had started having sex, particularly those who had intended to do so. Parents' watchful eye had a stronger influence on girls' intentions, even among those with a favourable attitude towards sex. Parents who successfully monitor their children, as opposed to those who try but fail, may be better communicators. Parents and children must have an open, truthful relationship in order for parents to know where their children are and with whom. Parents who are skilled in communication might also be successful at instilling their beliefs about sex in their children.
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine,
August 2005