Expert guidance on adolescent sexual education

Experts and sexologists are providing guidance to parents on how to discuss sexuality, consent, and the influence of pornography with adolescents.

In Australia, research from the eSafety Commissioner indicates that 40% of surveyed adolescents encountered pornography before age 13. Developmental paediatrician Dr Billy Garvey warned that when pornography acts as a primary educator, there is a risk that sexual violence becomes normalized. This follows findings from the Australian Child Maltreatment Study suggesting teenage boys have surpassed adult men as the most likely perpetrators of sexual violence against minors. Additionally, University of Melbourne research noted that some teenagers hold increasingly hostile attitudes toward women.

In France, sexologist Emma Puech-Hélin advised parents to create safe spaces for dialogue, even if adolescents do not immediately engage. Experts recommended expanding conversations beyond prevention—such as STIs or pregnancy—to include topics like consent, pleasure, and exploration. For children aged 11-12, it was suggested that parents address pornography by emphasizing it is a “staged performance” rather than a reflection of real sexual relationships.