EARLY SEXUALIZATION: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS OF PRETEEN GIRLS
EARLY SEXUALIZATION:
A GUIDE FOR PARENTS
OF PRETEEN GIRLS
This guide was made possible thanks to the financial contribution of la Direction de la santé publique de Montréal and the collaboration of the
following people, listed in alphabetical order :
Lucie Biron, Charlotte Bissonnette-Reinholtz, Julie Bourbeau, Maryse Boutin (Turbine graphique), Catherine Browne, France-Line Carbonneau, Michele Chappaz, Mickael
Delahaye, Claudette Demers-Godley, Karine Désy-Lalonde, Francine Duquet, Denise Dutil, Susan Dwire, Amber Goldfarb-McMullin, Rachel Gouin, Chantal Hamel, JC Little
and Oisin Little of Little Animation Inc, Lilian Lopez, Raffaella Paolone, Sandrine Ricci, Blanca Vega, the participants at the Day of reflection on early sexualization and all
of the people and groups I have met in conjunction with this project, who have been a vast source of inspiration and motivation.
Thank you.
EARLY SEXUALIZATION:
A GUIDE FOR PARENTS OF PRETEEN GIRLS
A bit of history…
Today, almost three years later, that desire has led me to develop a research project
at the YWCA on the early sexualization of girls. One of my priorities has been to
create spaces for exchange and reflection with those who are also concerned
about this growing trend. It is a complex issue, one that needs to be examined from
It was my grandson's eighth birthday and as I watched him play with his friends I
various angles and approached according to its many facets.
noticed a girl, a bit older, who was not joining in the games the others were
playing. When I looked a little closer I realized why she was standing on the side-
In May 2005, we organized a day of reflection on the subject at UQAM (Université
lines. She was wearing a very tight mini skirt and was constrained by her clothing.
du Québec à Montréal), whose proceedings are available on our website
She was also wearing a short tank top and platform shoes, her hair was coloured
www.ydesfemmesmtl.org. With very little publicity this event attracted a large
and she was wearing makeup. A “Lolita”, I thought to myself, but such a young
number of participants, evidence that our concern for girls was shared by many
one…..
other people involved in their lives, whether at school, in youth centres or CLSCs.
From the recommendations that emerged from that day of reflection, we set to
Weeks past and with the onset of spring, I noticed more and more girls similarly
work to develop some tools. Here we present the first one; a guide for parents of
dressed, parading around in sexy clothes at an age when seduction should not be
preteen girls.
part of their lives. It was then that my desire to understand this phenomenon was
born.
Early Sexualization: a new reality
The growth of this atmoshpere of hypersexualization among young people has
been fostered by some important changes in society; such as the glorification of
consumerism, the media's growing erotisization of teenagers and children, the
The early sexualization of girls is a phenomenon occuring as a part of society's pres-
normalization of pornography's standards of beauty through popular music and
ent and pervasive cllimate of hypersexualization. Little girls in sexy clothing, the
the Net, and the increasing social pressure which encourages girls to have
overtly sexualized act of seduction, “fuckfriends”, sexual internet chat, the use of
boyfriends as early as possible.
webcams for sexual exhibition and the consumption of cyberporn represent real
situations in the lives of young people. The extent and effects of this environment
What is really troubling is that this hypersexualization is appearing among younger
on their development are not fully known and this is a motivating factor for us to
and younger children, promoted by the media, the Internet and the many indus-
continue working on our project on early sexualization. Further research into the
tries that profit from this trend. Preteens are specifically targeted by marketplace
lives of young people, which is currently being carried out, will help us develop
interests because they are considered the most important demographic after the
training and awareness tools, in collaboration with the Service d'aide aux collecti-
baby boomers. This generation is being encouraged to grow up faster. It is more
vités of UQAM and professors Francine Duquet and Anne Quéniart.
connected and informed and has more money, more influence and more personal
YWCA 1
power than all previous generations. Marketing companies scrutinize the beha-
addition, preteen girls are increasingly likely to put themselves on diets and to
viour and dress of young people in order to sell a stereotypical image back to them.
suffer from eating disorders, as they try to emulate the media's restrictive standards
Kids see these images and aspire to become the stereotype they are being sold. In
of beauty.
turn, the media reacts by offering new images based on what young people have
recreated from the stereotype, and this circle repeats itself unceasingly.
Faced with this new reality, parents and other adults responsible for educating chil-
dren (extended family, foster parents), sometimes find themselves confronted by
Commercialization has invaded our social and domestic space with images that
unforeseen and disturbing situations that challenge their values. These situations
border on pornography. Magazines, commercials, music videos, television pro-
leave them uncertain, embarrassed and not knowing how to respond. Apart from
grams, songs and Internet sites are among the agents used to promote and sell sex.
its commercial aspect, sexuality is at the core of our identities, our relationships, our
Emphasis is placed on women exposing their bodies, seduction, exhibitionism and
growth and well-being. Young girls and boys risk being short-changed if their
performance. Little girls are seduced by these images and products, and are
perceptions of seduction, loving relationships and sexual relations are tainted by
encouraged to adopt behaviour borrowed from adult sexuality without having the
artificial and limited propositions. It is therefore essential that parents accompany
corresponding maturity needed to deal with the repercussions that can follow.
their children on this voyage of discovery towards self-knowledge and self affirma-
Furthermore, the media offers contradictory images: girls must be innocent and yet
tion, making sure that the essential elements of human relationships- love, intima-
seductive, virginal and knowing…
cy and self-respect -are given full measure.
Preteens and teenagers are especially sensitive to outside influences (peer pressure
and media role models). They long for attention and want to be “normal” and fit in
with the crowd. The sexual discourse, however, is so pervasive that certain girls feel
pressured to engage in sexual activity prematurely. Unfortunately, the sexuality
promoted by the media is one of sexual acts without consequences, which glorify
the domination of men and where women are portrayed as sexual objects rather
than equal partners. There is much to be concerned about. In the past ten years,
among other issues, we have seen an increase in the practice of oral sex between
teenagers and preteens and the subsequent spread of oral-genital infection. In
Our Objective
As a response to the questioning and uncertainty of parents and other adults,
we have created this guide to assist them.We are offering various strategies that we
hope will enable them to make thoughtful choices and find their own answers and
ways to communicate them, for the welfare of their children and to promote
family harmony.
2 YWCA
The role of parents and other adults
At about 9 or 10 years of age, children begin to detach themselves from their par-
ents and look to their peer group for validation. They are exposed to diverse influ-
responsible for the welfare of children
ences and subjected to many social pressures, which can have an impact on their
behaviour and the attitudes they have towards parental rules. At this time, parents
Early sexualization is a social phenomenon, making it incumbent on everyone to
can begin to feel that they have less influence over their children and that they are
prevent and counter this trend. It is, however, parents and other adults responsible
losing their parental authority. Confronted with this “commercial machine”, as well
for children who must take the lead to encourage their children to develop critical
as the influence of peer group pressure, they may feel that any action they take will
thinking when exposed to the commercialization of sex.
be ineffective and might be tempted to abdicate their parental roles.
Parents are primarily responsible for the education of children. Consciously or not,
We feel that parents must take a stand regarding the phenomenon of early sexua-
each parent promotes certain values (those that are meaningful to them) to
lization. It is necessary for them to reaffirm their personal values to their children
instruct their children.These values influence parents' speech, gestures and actions
not only by what they say, but more importantly through their daily actions. This
during their child's developing years. They are also reflected in the rules they
will help to reassure children; giving them clear guidelines and helping them
establish to shape their child's behaviour. Children will be raised according to these
develop their own critical judgement.
values and will either accept or challenge them throughout their formative years.
Content
For each reaction, we present parents with an example of a response and a course
of action to follow. We do not want to impose predetermined and inflexible
responses. We know that every family; each parent and each child are unique and
This guide concerns girls, between 8 and 12 years old. Girls and boys of this age are
that the relationship between parent and child has distinctive characteristics as
both faced with the pressure of early sexualisation but are affected in different
well. We also think that all parents or adults have the right to take some time for
ways. In this guide we will explore the specific repercussions that girls must deal
reflection before responding to a child. A short period of introspection is often nec-
with. We hope that the impact of early sexualization on boys will be the subject of
essary to adequately respond to your daughter's questions or comments.
a future guide.
Following each suggested response and course of action, the guide provides some
Seven scenarios have been chosen inspired by real life and linked to early sexual-
information about the development and needs of girls. The impact of the parent's
ization. As a parent, you may have lived through one or more of these situations.
reaction on their daughter is put into perspective as well.
Please note that the language used to describe or comment on these situations is
in some instances frank and direct, and may be shocking to you. Nevertheless, it is
the language heard in the schoolyard and we encourage you to read the entire
We hope that the information in this guide will be of use to you and your family.
guide to familiarize yourself with the vocabulary.
In each example, a girl expresses a desire or a comment to her mother or father. We
Lilia Goldfarb,
have imagined three possible reactions on the part of the parent, reactions that
Coordinator of the YWCA's research project on the early sexualization of girls.
you may have had in a similar situation with your daughter.
YWCA 3
Provocative clothing and fashion…
Your daughter wants to wear sexy clothing.
and desires. Exposed to a multitude of products, she will
HOW TO SAY NO
A
try to persuade you to buy everything she wants. It may
be tempting to give in to all her wishes and save her
If I say no, is she going to have a tantrum in the store?
disappointment and frustration when you say no. By
You're worried that your daughter wants to wear sexy
This type of response allows you to intervene in differ-
saying no and imposing some age-appropriate limits,
clothes that expose her body. This type of clothing will
ent ways. First, you acknowledge your daughter's
you will prevent your daughter from prematurely enter-
give her a sensual look that is not appropriate for a girl
request. Then you explain the reasons why she should
ing adolescence, even if these restrictions displease her
her age. However, saying no may provoke a crisis. How
not wear provocative clothing. She will realize that you
in the short run. Moreover, expressing your values and
should you react? Here is a response you might try. “I
have made your decision with her welfare in mind.
standing firm will have a reassuring effect. Your daugh-
can see you really like this top but don't you think it
Finally, by proposing further discussion about the
ter needs to learn how to distinguish between what is
shows off a little too much of your body? Let's choose
clothes she wants to wear, you have encouraged future
good for her and what may do her harm. If she throws a
something else. Look at this top with the “lasagne”
dialogue and communication with your daughter.
fit to get what she wants and sees that getting angry
straps. What do you think? If you like it, we'll buy it. Next
will achieve her goals, she may become agitated in the
time we go shopping we can talk about what kind of
Remember that your daughter depends, for the most
absence of clear boundaries. Clear limits will let her
clothes you like to wear, before we leave the house.''
part, on your financial resources to satisfy her needs
know and respect the values you are trying to convey.
4 YWCA
Your daughter knows that some clothes attract atten-
REACTING TO PEER PRESSURE
B
tion, but what she doesn't understand is that they may
also provoke desire and stimulate sexual excitement in
If I don't buy it for her, will she feel left out?
certain adults. She wants to be noticed, feel beautiful
You think that your 10-year-old daughter will feel left
Acknowledging your daughter's desires, and taking the
and fit in with her group of friends. At ten years of age,
out if she doesn't wear the sexy clothes that her group
time to explain that there is an appropriate age and
your daughter is conscious of her body, her clothes and
of friends considers fashionable. On the other hand, you
place to wear certain types of clothing, will demon-
the look she projects. If a leader in her group or one of
are not comfortable with the idea of her wearing
strate that you have considered her wishes and opin-
her friends wears a particular piece of clothing, she will
unsuitable clothing. Here's a possible response.“Do you
ions. When you explain that she does not have to do
be tempted to imitate this choice. She can't wait to
want this top because all the girls are wearing them?
everything that her friends suggest, you are helping her
grow up and she will try to convince you to give in to
Do you really want to look like all the other girls?
develop her ability to think and judge for herself. It is
her demands by telling you that all the kids are wearing
Everyone is entitled to their own personality. You don't
also possible to suggest a creative alternative that will
this style of clothing. Being in contact with other par-
have to dress a certain way to keep your friends. I don't
encourage the development of another aspect of her
ents and discussing common parenting issues will
think this top is appropriate for someone your age
personality. This discussion will teach your daughter
reveal that all parents hear the same arguments from
because it reveals too much of your body. Why don't
how to handle a disagreement between two people
their children. Other parents can become important
you invite your friends over for a costume party? I'll lend
who have made different choices or who have different
allies as you search for common ways to respond to
you some of my clothes and jewellery and you can all
opinions.
your children's demands.
dress up like sophisticated ladies.
beings depends on the way their body looks. At 10
RESISTING SEXY CLOTHING
C
years of age your daughter is in the process of building
her character and self-confidence. Your praise and
She looks cute in it, but is it appropriate for a girl her age?
attention should focus primarily on her personal quali-
You like to compliment your daughter's taste in cloth-
This response will allow you to praise your daughter in
ties and abilities rather than on her physical appear-
ing, but you also want to guide her choices and encour-
an age-appropriate way. You have acknowledged what
ance.
age her to develop her self-esteem and unique person-
she wanted and proposed an alternative which could
ality.You could respond as follows:“I agree, the colour of
appeal to her sense of originality. You have also encour-
this top suits you, but the style is not appropriate for
aged her creativity and helped her realize her special
someone your age. Let's find something really special,
and unique character.
something really eye-catching. Do you remember when
your cousin came over last week, you really liked her
Wearing sexy clothing generally attracts attention and
top? I saw something similar in the same blue, come
compliments, and for some people this attention adds
look at it. The other girls will want one just like it and
value to their physical appearance. This type of atten-
you could start a trend.”
tion can lead girls to believe that their value as human
YWCA 5
Make-up and fashion magazines…
Your daughter wants to wear make-up.
advertisements for beauty products and often rely on
THE AGE FOR MAKEUP
A
stars to promote these products. It's not surprising,
then, that your daughter wants to imitate them by buy-
She's only 10 years old, but maybe it's normal to wear makeup
ing and wearing the makeup products they say they
at a younger age than when I was growing up.
use. Your daughter does not yet have the maturity to
Your daughter idolizes a certain pop star whose face is
Use this occasion to talk to your daughter about her
understand that certain stars are specifically chosen to
on the cover of all the teen magazines. Does she admire
favourite singer's talent and abilities. Emphasize her
attract and influence consumers. Wearing makeup at
her looks only or is she drawn to her talent as a per-
musical talent, her poise and her determination. These
this preadolescent stage places a great deal of impor-
former? “Why do you like this singer so much? I can see
are traits your daughter can aspire to and emulate. You
tance on physical appearance to the detriment of char-
you want to copy her makeup but she's much older
can encourage her creative talents and expression by
acter-building. Your intervention is necessary to
than you. You still have a few years to go before you're
suggesting she create a dance routine that stays clear
encourage your daughter's healthy development and
a teenager and I think you're too young to wear make-
of provocative gestures.
to praise her aptitudes and her potential.
up. She's very talented and I can see why you like the
way she sings. You love to sing too, so why don't you
Between the ages of 6 and 12, it's normal for your
learn one of her songs and create a dance routine with
daughter to be fascinated by pop or film stars. She will
some of your friends? You could perform the song at a
look for an idol or role model that she can look up to.
friend's birthday party.”
Many magazines marketed to young girls are full of
6 YWCA
of having fun but more an act of seduction it belongs in
PUTTING ON MAKEUP FOR FUN
B
the realm of older teens and grownups. If your daugh-
ter begins to wear makeup in public, she is giving her
Maybe she just wants to have fun playing dress-up.
face a sensual dimension which does not correspond to
Are you wondering why your daughter wants to wear
By asking your daughter why she wants to wear lipstick,
her age. Pay attention to the motivating factors behind
makeup? Does she want to play dress-up or does she
you are showing her that you recognize her desire and
your daughter's wants and desires.
want to present a more grown-up image? Here's how
you feel her opinion is important. You can limit the
you can respond to your daughter.“Why do you want to
wearing of makeup so it stays in the realm of play and
wear lipstick? You and your friends can use makeup
does not become a springboard to an early entry into
crayons to play with at home, but I don't want you to
adolescence.
wear makeup when you go out of the house, it's not
suitable at your age. I could buy you some lightly-
It is normal for your daughter to use makeup to dis-
coloured lip balm but I prefer that you use makeup just
guise herself at special times (Halloween, costume par-
for play.”
ties). When putting on makeup is no longer a question
disobey to test the limits that have been imposed. Even
MAKEUP AT ANY COST
C
if your daughter breaks the rules, don't give in. Reaffirm
your position and restate your values. Children tend to
If I don't buy it for her, will she take my makeup and put it on in secret?
internalize what is often repeated. They will remember
the values you tried to teach them and eventually
You observe your daughter's reactions and behaviour:
understand what is motivating her to wear makeup. Is it
adopt the appropriate behaviour in their daily lives.
she is not respecting the limits you set. Here's a way you
to look older or to enhance her appearance? Is it to
can respond. “I can see that despite our talk, you're
seduce or because her group of friends is into makeup?
wearing makeup. Why is it so important to you? I don't
If you understand her motivation, it will be much easier
approve; you're too young. If you really want to use
to intervene. Offer your daughter an alternative by sug-
makeup, how about learning face painting?”
gesting that she volunteer to do face painting at her
friends' birthday parties.
Whatever your daughter's reaction to the limits you set,
you must continue to reaffirm your position and your
It's possible that despite your wishes, your daughter will
views. You should question your daughter in order to
wear makeup anyway. Some children are tempted to
YWCA 7
Ultra-thin models and body Image…
Your daughter wants to be thin.
orders such as bulimia and anorexia. Body image can
THE WEIGHT OF DIETING
A
become an overwhelming priority, even an obsession.
Your daughter can begin to distort her own body image
I think she could lose a few pounds.
when she compares herself to the advertising indus-
Maybe she could go on the diet I'm on.
try's presentation of ultra-thin models who give the illu-
You are on a diet yourself. Should you suggest that your
health.We can get some books on the subject or ask the
sion that their silhouette is the norm. She doesn't know
daughter follow this diet? She might lose some weight.
advice of a nutritionist. What would you think of exer-
about the extremely strict diets these models must fol-
But is it really a good idea? As your daughter enters
cising a little more, you could take a dance class or
low to remain rail thin. She's unaware that their photos
puberty, her body will begin changing and it may be
karate? I'm also going sign up for something that will
are manipulated by computer programs to correct
dangerous to encourage her to eat less. Rather than
get me moving, we could encourage each other.”
“imperfections” and present the “perfect body”.
opting for a diet, you can teach her healthy eating
Bombarded by these images, it is not surprising that
habits and encourage her to lead an active lifestyle
Body image begins to develop in infancy, and as a child
younger and younger girls compare themselves to this
which will help her achieve better health and a better
reaches puberty it takes on increasing importance. The
standard of beauty. Many women put themselves on
body image. This approach to weight will place it in the
constant talk about weight and dieting can promote
popular diet regimes that are often expensive and
domain of health rather than appearance. “I see that
unhealthy eating habits among girls and young
sometimes dangerous, in the pursuit of a certain image
you're concerned about your weight. I think you're fine
women. Forbidding or limiting consumption of certain
rather than to achieve a healthier lifestyle or a sense of
as you are, but if it's really worrying you, we can look at
foods as a reward or punishment, or to correspond to a
well-being.
the foods we eat and make better choices for our
particular body shape, can lead some girls to eating dis-
8 YWCA
she will not be a passive victim if she can express her
TEASING AND NAME-CALLING
B
feelings and assert herself.
She's fine as she is. She should ignore the teasing.
At six or seven years of age, children begin to express
Your daughter is the victim of teasing. How can you
When your daughter goes through a difficult situation
negative comments about other people. Saying or writ-
help her? You can start by listening to her and
such as being rejected by others, it is very important
ing mean things about someone else is sometimes a
empathizing with what she's been through. “I'm glad
that she feels she is being listened to and comforted.
way for children to exert power and to demonstrate sol-
that you talked to me about this. It's important to tell
The first step in reassuring your daughter is to listen to
idarity with their group of friends. The child who is
someone and also important to do something to stop
her story and not minimize the pain she has endured
being teased about her appearance is hurting. She is
the teasing because no one has the right to make fun of
because of the teasing. As you discuss ways to react and
counting on adults, especially her parents, to help her
you or anyone else. If we do nothing, it will give the per-
intervene, you are giving her the opportunity to express
deal with this trauma. When your daughter talks to you
son who is making fun of you the impression that it's
her opinion and find solutions to this situation or any
about the problems she is confronting, she hopes she
not serious and they can continue doing it.What do you
other difficult situation that may arise in the future.Your
will be listened to, whatever the problem might be. She
want to do? Do you want to talk to them yourself? We
daughter needs to assert herself in diverse situations to
will trust you if you take the time to listen to her with
can look at different ways to deal with this together.
develop her self-confidence. Encourage her to commu-
respect. You will help develop her self-esteem if you
Would you like me to talk to your teacher or the school
nicate and take the initiative. Taking action and making
allow her to express herself and help her to find solu-
principal about it?”
decisions will put your daughter in charge of her life:
tions.
The importance attached to appearance and the pres-
PUBERTY AND BODY CHANGE
C
sure to be thin can sometimes take on excessive pro-
portions and can very often obscure reality. It is impor-
She's approaching puberty. Maybe her body is starting to change.
tant for your daughter to be proud of her changing
Your daughter's weight gain can be attributed to the
This response will give you an opportunity to talk to
body. Having a positive body image is a significant part
physical changes associated with puberty. As she
your daughter about the biological, emotional and psy-
of self-esteem but not the only part. Praise your child
approaches adolescence, her body will begin to
chological changes associated with puberty that affect
for her accomplishments and encourage her talents
change. How can you help her deal with her concerns
both boys and girls. It's very possible that your daugh-
and abilities. It will help her develop self-confidence
about these inevitable changes? You can respond as
ter will become even more preoccupied with her
and build true self-esteem. She needs your help to
follows:“Are you concerned about your weight? During
appearance during this period so take this opportunity
develop her personality and learn to assert herself.
puberty, boys' and girls' bodies begin to change and
to reassure her and encourage her to lead a more active
those changes often involve gaining weight. You'll see
lifestyle. Suggest activities you can do as a family as this
changes in other girls your age. Eating healthy foods
will strengthen the bonds you already have. Place the
and exercising is the best way to maintain a healthy
emphasis on her character and abilities, so that her
weight. Together we can set a realistic goal for you and
attention is not entirely centred on her body and physi-
with a change in your eating habits, a little more physi-
cal appearance.
cal activity and your usual determination, I'm sure you'll
reach it.”
YWCA 9
Seduction and music videos…
Your daughter wants to know if she is attractive
their group. Others don't rely on the stereotypical qual-
MAKING GOOD CHOICES IN LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP
A
ities of physical beauty or popularity to influence whom
they form relationships with. Instead, they are guided
Does she want to look and act like the young women in these videos?
by personal qualities such as honesty, kindness, gen-
Your daughter seems preoccupied with her appear-
This discussion will allow you to talk about how “beau-
erosity, humour, etc. You can encourage your daughter
ance. You want her to think about what attracts two
ty” means different things to different people and help
to make enlightened choices based on true friendship
people to each other. You can respond as follows: “Do
her understand that beauty is a very subjective issue. A
and real emotions, rather than the superficial criteria of
you ever wonder why you think someone is really cute
person can be beautiful to some people and unattrac-
beauty and popularity.
and your best friend doesn't? People have different
tive to others. You can encourage her to think about
ideas about “who's hot and who's not”. What do you
why she prefers the company of the people she likes .
think boys look for in girls, and what do girls look for in
She will then be better able to make good choices in
boys? What do you think about boys who like girls just
friendship and eventually in love.
for their looks? What would you prefer: a boy who liked
you only for your looks, or a boy who appreciated all
With the onset of puberty, children begin to interact in
your good qualities? Why are you friends with this girl
different ways; groups of boys and groups of girls begin
or that boy, and why are they friends with you? You
to disperse as they are attracted to the opposite sex.
have some great qualities that make you a good friend
Some young people try to prove their popularity and
and it's these qualities that attract and sustain relation-
raise their status among their friends by adopting cer-
ships between people.”
tain stereotypical behaviours that are popular within
10 YWCA
Being attractive is important at any age. By praising her
DO YOU THINK I'M SEXY?
B
looks, her qualities and her talents, you will teach her
how to love herself. A father's non-sexual admiration
Is she wondering if she's pretty?
and attention can help a girl recognize her own beauty.
Your daughter asks you if she's sexy. How do you reas-
It is important that your daughter be aware of her value
A mother has an equally important role to play by mak-
sure her and at the same time make her understand
as a whole person. You can compliment her on her
ing her daughter aware of all her attributes.
that you do not need to be “sexy” and have a “perfect”
appearance, but at the same time you should also
body to attract someone? You can respond as follows:“I
praise her personal qualities, talents and skills. This will
think you're beautiful. You have lovely eyes and a beau-
show her that beauty goes beyond the physical and
tiful smile, a smile that lights up a room and shows your
includes positive character traits.
great sense of humour. These are qualities that attract
other people.”
Many of today's music videos, which are watched by a
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FACT AND FICTION
C
younger and younger audience, show very sexy young
women using provocative behaviour or submissive atti-
Does she think she has to be seductive to attract boys?
tudes to seduce young men. Between 8 and 12 years of
age, it's difficult to make the distinction between fact
How does your daughter define beauty? Does she think
and you could be attracted to him based on qualities
and fiction and your daughter can easily blur the line
that beauty means being sexy? You would like her to
other than physical appearance. It could be your per-
between the two and think that she has to be provoca-
know that beauty is defined by more than physical
sonal qualities and common interests that attract you
tive to attract a boy. She may be tempted to imitate the
appearance and provocative behaviour. You could
to each other.”
behaviour she sees in music videos - behaviours that
respond to her as follows: “What do you think it means
conform to mass media stereotypes. You can help her
to be beautiful? Do you think you're beautiful? Each
The music video can be a pretext for you to talk to your
think about the concept of beauty, her self-image, the
person has their own unique beauty, a little something
daughter about beauty. How do you define beauty?
image she wants to project and the difference between
beyond the physical that attracts us to each other. The
What is her self-image? What image does she want to
fact and fiction.
girls that you see in the music videos are playing roles
project? You have a great opportunity to talk about other
based solely on their appearance. They are being paid
positive personal qualities that attract people to each
to attract boys in a very bold way. It doesn't always hap-
other. This will help your daughter discover her many
pen that way in real life. A boy could be attracted to you,
attractive qualities beyond her physical appearance.
YWCA 11
Love and respect…
Your daughter wants to know if she will have a "fuck friend"
tion about the sexual act. The “fuck friend” relationship
THE MEANING OF WORDS
A
can be summarized as a sexual relationship without
involvement or emotional connection between the
A what? Does she understand what that means?
sexual partners. Sometimes this type of relationship is
You're shocked to hear your daughter use these words.
and desire. They are involved in each other's lives, share
respectful but it can also be abusive. Stress the impor-
You have never used that kind of language in front of
their emotions and trust each other. They are sensitive
tance of respecting others and of respecting oneself.
her and you wonder if she really understands what the
to their partner's likes and dislikes, and they use their
Take the time to talk to her about loving relationships
words mean. You could ask her: “What do you think
bodies to express their feelings for one another. Sexual
where people make a commitment to each other, and
“fuck friend”means? Some people are only interested in
contact is just one of the many different expressions of
where the bonds of love strengthen over time.
the physical pleasure of sexual contact and do not have
love.”
feelings of love or affection for their partner. They are
Your daughter is exposed to sexuality from many
not involved in each other's lives and are not commit-
Your daughter has reached out to you by asking you
sources. She might repeat what she hears without real-
ted to each other in any way. This type of relationship
questions about sex. She may feel awkward and she
ly understanding what the words mean and come to
can sometimes lead to disrespect and abuse, where one
needs reassurance. Make her feel comfortable and
you for clarification.You may be surprised to hear words
person takes advantage of the other. It's important to
answer all her questions as best as you can, so she can
that are not part of your vocabulary. Get the informa-
define our limits and be clear about what we don't like.
get the information she needs to make good decisions.
tion you need by asking other parents or teenagers the
There are also sexual relationships based on love. Two
You may prefer to discuss loving sexual relationships
meaning of these words.
people decide to have sex based on their mutual love
with your daughter rather than give her more informa-
12 YWCA
Your daughter may have heard the term “fuck friend”
THE “FUCK FRIEND” TREND
B
from her friends or from magazines aimed at adoles-
cents. Lacking information or critical understanding,
Is it “cool” to have a “fuck friend”?
your child may think that having a “fuck friend” is the
Will your daughter want to imitate her friends one day
Invite your daughter to talk to you about her friend-
thing to do or the path to popularity. If you are not sure
and engage in certain sexual practices just because
ships with girls and with boys.You will help her develop
about a magazine's or a favourite TV show's content,
everyone else is doing it or to fit in? Here's how you can
the critical judgement needed to make sense out of all
you can read it before you buy it for your daughter or
respond: “Is this the first time that you heard these
the sex talk out there, whether it comes from her
watch the show with her, to see if it's appropriate for
words? Some girls and boys say they have “fuck friends”
friends, magazines or the media. She will then be able
someone her age. However, you can't supervise all the
to be cool and show off, but they don't necessarily have
to decide what's right for her and what she should stay
conversations your daughter will hear or overhear in
one. Maybe the 6th grader you overheard in the school-
away from. Encourage her to express herself and to
the schoolyard. That is why it's better to encourage her
yard was just pretending. In the future, someone might
make choices that respect her values. You might also
to develop critical thinking skills, a capacity for judge-
suggest that you engage in sexual contact with them.
want to notify school personnel about what the 6th
ment and self-esteem.
It's very important not to jump into something you're
grader said; they may want to discuss it with the child's
not sure of. Please come to me and we'll talk about it
parents.
together.”
own experiences to share information with your
TALKING ABOUT LOVE
C
daughter; it will give your conversations a more person-
al tone that might encourage her to confide in you
Will she have one anyway?
about her own experiences and questions.
Do you feel powerless to protect your daughter from
we had the same feelings for each other. We couldn't
outside pressure? How can you influence your daugh-
stop touching each other and thought about being inti-
Your daughter may sometimes indirectly ask you about
ter's future choices? Take the initiative and talk to her
mate. We were really in love. If he had been my “fuck
sex. She wants to know your opinion. Respond to her
about love, sharing your own experiences with her.
friend” I would have missed all that. One day, you'll find
questions seriously, without judging or teasing her.
“You're wondering if you will have a “fuck friend”. I also
someone special who feels the same way about you,
Show her that she can confide in you and discuss sexu-
had many questions about sex and love when I was
and you'll want to share a loving relationship.”
ality in complete trust and discretion. Let your daughter
your age. Do you sometimes wonder how people get
know that you love her. It will encourage her to love
together? I had a few “boyfriends” but they were most-
Use this time to talk to your daughter about the various
herself, love others and be loved in return, when the
ly just friends. Then I met a boy I fell in love with. I was
aspects of loving relationships, such as sharing, intima-
time is right.
really attracted to him, I thought about him constantly
cy and trust.These are the elements that are often miss-
and we spent a lot of time together. We discovered that
ing when sex is just about physical sensation. Use your
YWCA 13
Sexuality and peer pressure…
Your daughter wants to know what a "blowjob" is
information and convey a healthy understanding and
WORDS THAT SHOCK
A
respect for sexuality.
Oh no! What am I going to tell her?
There is a trend nowadays for some young people to
The question can be shocking! How should you
Don't jump to conclusions about your daughter's guilt.
take part in oral sex in public places, with multiple part-
respond? Calm down before you talk to your daughter.
She's not responsible for what she's heard. In addition,
ners. It is not surprising that your daughter has heard
“Is this the first time you heard this word and where did
your respectful attitude will show her that she can talk
the expression “give a blow job” without necessarily
you hear it? It's a word that some people use to
to you about anything, even if the subject is embarrass-
understanding what it means. You can put this sexual
describe a sexual act that takes place between two con-
ing and awkward. Before responding, you can take a
practice in the proper context by presenting it as a sex-
senting people in private. It's a part of sexual behaviour.
few moments to decide what you want to say by asking
ual act done in private, between two consenting people
But there's a lot more to sexuality than blowjobs.”
her some questions. This will allow you get your
who are mature enough to have sexual relations.
thoughts together so you can give her the appropriate
14 YWCA
answer her questions. By talking about the emotions
TALKING ABOUT SEX
B
that go along with sexual acts such as oral sex, you can
give your daughter an appropriate and complete
I can't discuss this with her, she's too young. But who will she ask
understanding of sexuality
if I don't talk to her about it?
You hesitate to respond. Does your daughter really
italia. You might not understand it now, but when two
It's normal for your daughter to ask questions and look
need to know what these words mean, at her age?
mature people have a strong sexual attraction, they
for answers about sex. All children do it. They turn to
Maybe it's better to pretend that you didn't hear her or
sometimes want to explore different ways to give each
people they feel close to and trust. Sometimes their
wait until she is older to have this discussion. You feel
other pleasure, in private. Not everyone enjoys this type
questions can be embarrassing and awkward, but not
your daughter is too young for a discussion about sex,
of sex.”
responding gives the impression of secrecy and mys-
but if she's asking you questions it means she's already
tery and possibly shame. If you feel uncomfortable
talked about it with her friends. She has asked you
It is always preferable to answer your daughter's ques-
responding, they will find answers elsewhere, from
because she trusts you and wants your reassurance.You
tions. If you avoid them she will look for answers else-
other children or in magazines or on the Internet. There
can respond in this way: “I think you are too young for
where. The answers that she finds might be inadequate
is a risk that the information they find will concentrate
us to have this conversation, but I want you to talk
and incomplete. Moreover, the people your daughter
on genitalia or performance. Take this golden opportu-
about this with me and not someone else. It's an
turns to for information may have their own agenda,
nity to talk to your daughter about the emotional
expression used to describe a sexual act called oral sex,
promoting sexual practices that are questionable, risky
dimension of sex.
where you caress a man's genitalia with your mouth.
and inappropriate for a girl her age. It is therefore
This type of caress can also be done to a woman's gen-
preferable that you overcome your discomfort and
tive influences? By setting limits for your daughter, you
PLEASURE FOR WHOM?
C
will help her begin to learn the advantages, disadvan-
tages and repercussions of certain acts and behaviours.
I hope she's doesn't feel she has to do this!
Give her opportunities to assert herself and to say no to
How can your daughter resist pressure from a partner
Explain to your daughter that this type of sexual act,
situations that arise in her daily life. Of course, this
or her peers? You can give her the tools to make
just like all sexual acts, should be done to please both
means that she will sometimes reject your suggestions.
informed decisions. Where should you begin?
partners, not out of fear that you will lose your partner
Little by little she will develop her own sense of judge-
if you refuse. Put the emphasis on shared pleasure and
ment and the capacity to make good choices - choices
You can help her recognize that she has choices.
desire.
that are right for her and for others.
“This sexual act should be done in private between two
consenting people and for the pleasure of both part-
As your daughter grows up she will always be sur-
ners. If someone or a group of people ask you to you to
rounded by other children. These encounters will
perform this sexual act or any other sexual act that you
provide her with good and bad experiences and she
feel uncomfortable doing, it is extremely important to
will be exposed to both positive and negative influ-
say no clearly.”
ences. How will she recognize and deal with the nega-
YWCA 15
Internet safety…
Your daughter is looking at pornographic images or is “chatting” with strangers.
guidelines by installing a password and placing the
INTERNET IN THE BEDROOM
A
computer connected to the Internet in a common area.
Make sure that the other computers in your home are
She's still on the computer! She's up late, but at least she's studying.
not connected to the Internet. This change may dis-
Does your daughter have a computer in her bedroom
common room. We'll work out a schedule that will suit
please your daughter. Justify it by explaining that the
with Internet access? Besides doing her homework,
everybody's needs.”
computer belongs to all family members and that a
what else is she using it for? The Internet brings a world
schedule for its use will be set according to the needs of
of uncensored information into your home, 24 hours a
The Internet offers your daughter unlimited access to
each member of the family. The new schedule will
day, seven days a week. About 4.2 million Internet sites
information, whether she's researching a subject for
encourage your daughter to get involved in other activ-
and 372 million web pages have pornographic content
school or for a leisure activity. It's possible that she can
ities. In addition, if you have a web camera, its use needs
and these sites are often accessed by links to innocent
unintentionally end up on a pornographic site and if
to be well supervised. It is also possible to purchase
sounding words, such as “horse” or “Barbie”.The webcam
the computer is in her bedroom, it's more difficult for
software which will block almost all access to certain
on your daughter's computer can also be used to send
you to monitor what she's looking at. When the com-
Internet sites. Although this kind of software is not
intimate pictures, and this has become popular among
puter is in a common space and time limits are set for
100% effective, it will prevent access to many inappro-
some young people. Parents must take control of the
surfing the Net, there is less risk that your daughter will
priate websites.
computer and supervise its use. Talk to your daughter
be confronted with pornographic images.
about what she's using the computer for. “I know you
spend a lot of time on the computer, but I don't want it
There are different ways to better supervise your fami-
in your bedroom. The whole family can use it if it's in a
ly's computer and Internet use. You can establish clear
16 YWCA
Between the ages of 8 and 12, your daughter will con-
A FALSE REPRESENTATION OF SEXUALITY
B
tinue to have questions about conception, childbirth
If she clicks on a pornographic site, what should I do?
and adult sexuality. If she stumbles on these types of
images, she may be repelled by them or they may awak-
How should you react if you discover your daughter
ence between pornography and sexuality. Now your
en her curiosity. At the very least, these images will give
looking at a pornographic website? What will you say to
daughter will have the information she needs to make
her a false impression of sexuality. She might think that
her if she admits to having consulted one? Here's how
the distinction between fact and fiction and correct any
this is the behaviour that she will be expected to per-
you can respond. “I'm glad you told me. I would prefer
false ideas she has about sexuality. If you don't respond,
form or that is awaiting her when she finds a partner.
that you didn't see these images. It's too bad there are
your daughter could believe that these pornographic
so many sites like this that give a false view of sexuality.
images are a true representation of sexual relations. She
If you have questions about sex, I can suggest some
could also be tempted to look for other pornographic
books or websites that are more appropriate for a girl
sites to find out more. If your daughter tells you about
your age and that give accurate information.”
what she has seen, use this opportunity to praise her for
coming to you to talk about it. Remember that parents
If you catch your daughter on a pornographic website
are still the first source of information for children with
or she tells you about it herself, don't overreact; stay
questions about sex.
calm.This is an opportunity for you to explain the differ-
Your daughter loves to chat online. She can spend
INTERNET CHAT
C
hours chatting with her friends. It is well known, howev-
er, that pedophiles use the Internet to solicit children. It
She's always in chat rooms. Who is she talking to?
is estimated that 89% of sexual solicitation of children is
Do you remember the hours you spent talking to your
not be appropriate for someone your age. I would pre-
done in chat rooms.These adults can quickly steer inno-
friends on the telephone? “Chatting” online is the way
fer that you send e-mails only to your friends. If you real-
cent conversations towards sexual matters, using terms
young people stay in touch with each other today. Your
ly enjoy writing, how about starting a daily journal or
that are inappropriate for children, and explaining them
daughter is no exception - she loves chatting with her
writing a short story?”
in a way that suits their purposes. Be vigilant, as the goal
friends online. Why is she so absorbed in this activity?
of some of these predators is to meet your daughter in
Who is she really communicating with? Show your
It's worrying to think that some predatory adults are
person.
interest in what she is doing and ask her questions:
using the Internet to contact children. You have a right
“Who are you chatting with? How old are they? What
to know who your daughter is corresponding with and
would you do if the conversation took a direction that
to warn her of the dangers of chatting with strangers.
made you feel uncomfortable? I would prefer you to
By talking about the risks, you can help her develop crit-
“chat” only with your friends, but if you make a new
ical thinking skills and prepare her to deal with unpleas-
friend online I would like you to let me know.
ant or dangerous situations. Suggest other ways she
Sometimes adults pretend that they're your age so they
can express her creativity if she has a genuine interest
can communicate with you. What they talk about may
in writing.
YWCA 17
© YWCA 2006
