Teen girls who have a close relationship with their mothers are more than likely to keep their virginity intact far longer. A new study has revealed that a daughter's closeness with her mom can impact a young girl's decision on when to begin engaging in sexual activity.
The study, which was conducted in Netherlands and published in the Pediatrics journal, assessed the sexual activities of 2,931 male and female participants. From these, 233 individuals (156 boys, 77 girls) admitted that they started having sex from the ages of 12 to 15. But from the teen girls who declared that they have a close and healthy relationship with their mother, 44 percent said that they didn't have sex before 16.
The study also determined that the teen girls' relationship with their fathers didn't hold any significant influence to their decision of having sex. The boys' relationship with either of their parents, on the other hand, didn't have any bearing to their choice to have sex. To be clear, the study defines "sex" as vaginal intercourse with a heterosexual partner.
The results highlight how mothers are the primary source on sex education in most families. They are the parent most likely to initiate the sex talk with their children, especially their teen girls. They are also more open to talking about the use of contraception, the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy with their daughters, especially if they have a positive relationship.
Study authors insist, however, that the results do not necessarily mean teen girls won't engage in sex even if they have a good relationship with their moms. But it could help young girls if they have a trusted parent to talk to when it comes to this matters. The news comes as a previous Planned Parenthood research showed that most teenagers find it awkward to talk to their parents about sex.
Do you agree that a mom's relationship with her daughter can impact her attitude about sex? Talk to us in the comments!
