Teen sexuality has always been a topic of discussion and debate. The youth are curious and always ready to explore new things, including their sexuality.
However, with the rise of social media and easy access to the internet, the current generation of teenagers have more exposure and options available to them. Here are ten shocking facts about teen sexuality which have been observed in recent years:.
1. Majority of Teens are Sexually Active
A recent study revealed that 44% of high school students in America are sexually active. Among them, 28% reportedly have had sex in the past three months. The data also showed that around 30% of teens engage in sexual intercourse before they turn 17.
2. Teen Birth Rates are Declining
The teen birth rate has been decreasing in recent years. According to a report by the National Center for Health Statistics, the rate of teenage births decreased by 7% in 2016 alone.
3. Teenagers are using Contraceptives
Teens who are sexually active are becoming more responsible in the bedroom. Studies show that 80% of them are using some form of contraceptive method.
It’s important to note, however, that relying on contraceptives alone is not a foolproof method of birth control.
4. Teens are Waiting Longer to have Sex
Recent data suggests that teens are not in a rush to have sex. The percentage of teens aged 15-19 who have had sex fell from 46% in 2011 to 39% in 2017.
Experts speculate that this decrease may be due to better access to contraceptives, more comprehensive sex education, and increased awareness of sexually transmitted infections.
5. Girls Are More Likely to Contract STIs
A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that girls are more likely to contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs) than boys.
The report shows that girls aged 15-19 accounted for 74% of Chlamydia cases and 51% of Gonorrhea cases.
Related Article
When Do Teens Actually Start Having Sex?
6. Sexting is Common Among Teens
Sexting or sending sexually explicit messages or pictures has become increasingly common among adolescents. Surveys indicate that 20% of teens admit to having sent nude or partially nude pictures via text messages or the internet.
It’s important for teens to understand that these images can be leaked, and can haunt them for a long time.
7. Many Teen Sexually Victimized
Studies show that one in six girls and one in ten boys are sexually victimized before they reach the age of 18. This includes inappropriate touching, sexual assault, or rape.
It’s critical for concerned adults to recognize signs of abuse and offer support to the affected teenagers.
8. Sexual Orientation Matters
Sexual orientation plays a big role in teen sexuality. Young people who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) tend to become sexually active earlier than their heterosexual counterparts.
They’re also more likely to face discrimination, making them more vulnerable to depression and anxiety.
9. Pornography is Ubiquitous
Youngsters today have easy access to pornography with just a few clicks. This ubiquitous availability of sexually explicit material on the internet is exposing teens to unrealistic sexual expectations and sometimes leading to addiction.
10. Comprehensive Sex Education is Critical
Comprehensive sex education is necessary to provide knowledge and guidance to young people about their sexuality.
The lack of sex education causes teens to rely on unreliable sources such as peers, internet, or pornographic material and also leads to a lack of understanding of reproductive health, contraception, and sexual wellness.
