I am a doctor, medical news correspondent, and daytime TV co-host, but the single most important title I have is “Mom.” My son is 16 years old, my daughter is 15, and so far, I am really enjoying their teenage years! And, as busy and hectic as my career and multiple responsibilities keep me, they know that they are my No. 1 priority. Period.
As an Ob/Gyn who treats lots of teenage girls, I think we tend to focus disproportionately in medicine, as well as in the media, on the upbringing of girls. There are entire magazines geared toward adolescent girls, and we seem to hear campaign after campaign targeting our daughters. (BTW, one of my favorites is the Always “#likeagirl” campaign!) Don’t get me wrong; I am a HUGE proponent of supporting young girls in every way possible. And not just because I have a daughter, but also because we are still not where we should be with gender equality.
–
5. No means no!
I’ve been talking to my son about sexual behavior since he was 13. I’ve told him that alcohol should not be involved in sexual behavior, because it can impair judgment on both sides. I’ve told him that “no means no,” and that it is never appropriate to engage in any non-consensual behavior.
I don’t have all the answers — I’m just a parent like everyone else, trying to do the best I can. But I know with certainty that I want my son to become the kind of man who is happy, healthy and has relationships marked with respect and mutual responsibility — hopefully I’m doing my part to make that happen.
