We live in a world where young people are constantly taking in messages about sex, relationships, and identity—often before they’re developmentally ready to understand or process them. Whether through social media, TV shows like Euphoria, or online videos, these messages can shape how teens think about intimacy, consent, and what’s “normal” in a relationship.
Unfortunately, much of what young people see—especially in sexually explicit content—doesn’t reflect reality. Instead, it often presents exaggerated, unrealistic, or even harmful behaviors without showing the risks or
the emotional side of intimacy. Over time, these repeated images and storylines can start to feel familiar and expected, even when they’re unsafe or disrespectful. Research is showing that potentially dangerous behaviors such as sexual choking are on the rise amongst college-age students (read more here). It’s essential that we don’t wait until they are older to start conversations about consent and boundaries.
Why Media Literacy Matters
The more a young person sees something—whether it’s a TikTok trend, a storyline on a streaming show, or explicit imagery online—the more it becomes normalized. Without adult guidance or opportunities to reflect, this media exposure can lead to:
- Unrealistic expectations about what sex should look or feel like
- Pressure to perform or agree to things they aren’t ready for
- Difficulty setting personal boundaries or communicating needs
- Believing silence equals consent when in reality, consent must be clear and enthusiastic
What Parents and Trusted Adults Can Do
This is where parents, caregivers, and educators make all the difference. Even when it seems like teens aren’t listening, they’re watching and learning from the adults in their lives. A simple conversation about something you saw in a show, a comment on a social post, or a casual question during a car ride can help build a foundation of trust and open communication.
You don’t have to wait for a “big talk.” In fact, micro-conversations—short, consistent, honest check-ins—are often more impactful.
Try starting with:
- “What are your friends saying about relationships these days?”
- “Have you ever seen something online that made you uncomfortable or unsure?”
- “What does a respectful relationship mean to you?”
And reinforce messages like:
- “What you see online isn’t always real—or safe.”
- “You don’t have to do something just because someone else expects it.”
- “You have the right to set boundaries and ask questions.”
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Talking about sex, media, and boundaries with young people might feel uncomfortable—but silence leaves room for misinformation and pressure to fill the gaps. By staying connected and curious, adults can help teens build the skills to make safe, informed, and healthy choices—no matter what they encounter online.
For more on how Candor supports schools, families, and communities with medically accurate, age-appropriate health education, visit candorhealthed.org.
Written by: Liz Garcia, Senior Health Educator
