Sex, sexuality, and sexiness are everywhere: on television, in “kids' movies,” all over social media, in music, on billboards, in stores and fashion, and in schools. It is very difficult to escape sexual images and content these days, especially for young people.
It's as if those in power want young people to think about and engage in sex and sexual activity.
But seriously, why is there so much emphasis on marketing sex to young people? Even when I was arriving home, they were shoving sex in front of our eyes and ears: Porky's, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Zapped, Revenge of the Nerds, etc. Now, the situation is 1,000 times worse. Why does society keep forcing sex into our realm?
Well, let's think about this together. When young people think about sex, they become more sexual. When children become sexual, they are more likely to experience the crazy ups and downs of relationships and heartbreaks, which are more emotional and less rational.
They run the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, many of which require lifelong treatment and patronage of big drug companies.
They do crazy things for love, but don't think about the consequences and spend more money on dates, which benefits big companies.
They are at risk of an unplanned pregnancy and all the expenses and consumption that come with it. Despite all these risks, young minds are encouraged to spend quality time with their families, develop strong and deep friendships, succeed academically and athletically, focus on hobbies and personal development, and pursue successful futures. There will be less emphasis on preparing for
A long time ago, I was 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 years old. I have children who are currently 12, 14, 16, and 17 years old. When I was young, the risk-reward proposition didn't make sense. And the more they force it on my kids, the less it makes sense to them too.
If we stop and think about social “programs” rather than reacting to them, it is clear what they want young people to do, think, and become. Rebellion is flipping the bird on the “program” and putting everything sex-related on the back burner and focusing on the things they don't want you to focus on…just because you can.
Cecil John Howell lives in Chino and is a speaker, youth and parenting coach, and recruitment career consultant.
