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Pubertal Development in Boys - Page 3

© Tara Kuther

How can parents help their sons understand and deal with puberty? Open channels of communication are the key. Provide information to boys about how their bodies will change, before it happens. Be responsive to boys’ changing and sometimes conflicting needs (for example the desire for privacy and for information). Educate boys about semenarche. Don't allow them to begin their sexual lives without information and resources to turn to. It can be very difficult, but allow time for dialogue, spend time together.

Parenting your teenage boy requires a balance between respecting his desire for independence while "being there" for him. Recognize that boys receive mixed messages about what it means to be a man and pay attention to the signals that you send. Perhaps most importantly, listen empathetically. Let your son know that it’s ok to talk with you. Reward his revelations by listening and make the dialogue reciprocal by telling your son how you feel.

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