Starting a conversation about online pornography with teens can be difficult but this is the age that they will need the most support to ensure they develop a healthy understanding of sex and relationships and consent.
Watch and see a list of ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ from our ambassador Dr Linda Papadopoulos to be prepared to support teens on this issue.
Stress that what they are seeing is often a conflation of sex and violence, is dictated by a handful of pornographers that use extreme acts to shock people into watching and has little bearing on reality.
The body image talk here is key for both boys and girls – everything from hairless bodies to fake breasts, talk about the misrepresentation of reality.
Point it out wherever you see it – in signs, in music videos in magazines
Don’t let them be passive viewers get them to think about why women are being depicted in this way and the impact it has on expectations in relationships.
You have the chance to influence how they absorb this material, make sure you take it.
You want them to be able to come to you so you need to be on the same side
This is not a one-off conversation so raise it again when they get their first partner and talk about their feelings about intimacy and boundaries.
Have an open door policy, be patient, be on their side.
We’ve created an advice hub to offer parents more tips and advice to help protect children and young people from online pornography.
See related advice and practical tips to support children online: