EPISODE 3: HOW TO TALK TO TEENS ABOUT CONSENT
This is a potentially scary topic for parents. I have a young teenager and I know that having this conversation early is key. But talking to those weirdos about anything is difficult enough. Having an important and frank conversation with a teen about sex can be downright unnerving.
For both parties. But it’s CRITICAL.
This is where my guest, Dr. Jennifer Lang comes in. Her book, Consent: The New Rules of Sex Education: Every Teen's Guide to Healthy Sexual Relationships gives you the tools to communicate with teens about a very daunting-yet-critical subject. Teens are already thinking about sex, whether they’re sexually active or not. Empowering them to identify and then articulate their needs and boundaries is critical. They also need to recognize that their partners’ boundaries must be discussed and respected at all times.
Anyone who’s sexually active (or plans to be), must understand that consent is NOT a binding contract and they and/or their partners are allowed to change their minds at any time and for any reason. Period. I hope this conversation with Dr. Lang gives parents and guardians the tools to talk to kids about the importance of consent — regardless of their sex, sexual identity or gender identification.
This book is written for everyone.
Then stick around for our newest Screw Confession, which was submitted by a new listener. This story is absolutely hilarious.
BIO FROM AMAZON
JENNIFER LANG, MD, is the co-founder and creator of Buzz LLC, a social impact tech start-up working to address the sexual assault epidemic on college campuses. She practiced as a board-certified OB/GYN and gynecologic oncologist, specializing in integrative and preventative medicine, and minimally invasive and robotic surgery. In 2013, she co-founded an international medical nonprofit that delivers cervical cancer prevention services to women in resource-poor countries. Since then, the nonprofit has grown to support 80 clinics spanning Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Central America. She is the author of The Whole 9 Months: A Week-By-Week Pregnancy Guide with Recipes for a Healthy Start, and mother of three intelligent kids, who always ask the hardest questions.
To purchase Consent on Amazon click here.
More information on the book here.
Find out more about Buzz, a social impact bracelet designed to inspire a new culture around dating, consent and capacity in young adults.
Article mentioned by Dr. Lang about some men turning violent when rejected. Trigger Warning: Violence
JENNIFER LANG, MD
Photo by Michael Dorausch