Pa02Aug04c Spin the bottle

A New Kind of Spin the Bottle

Oprah.com - From the show Dr. Phil on Alarming Sexual Behavior Among Children

Times have changed: children as young as twelve are having oral sex. It's not just the "fast kids," either; it's the clean-cut ones, too. According to a survey by Seventeen, 55% of teenagers have tried oral sex. Find out about this new teenage trend.

What's Going On?

- It's an oral sex epidemic: in schools across the country, children as young as twelve are engaging in oral sex.
- Oral sex happens at parties, school, buses and elsewhere? it's the new Spin the Bottle.
- At some oral sex parties, boys line up in "trains," with each boy being serviced by a girl.

Why Is It Happening?

- Many teenagers don't regard oral sex as "sex." They think it's safer than intercourse, or a way to preserve their virginity.
- Boys' social status is raised if they have oral sex performed on them. It's considered "uncool" if they haven't experienced it.
- Kids think there's nothing wrong with casual oral sex, even outside of a relationship.

What Can Parents Do?

- It's no longer enough to have the "birds and the bees" discussion. Talk about oral sex with your child early and often.
- Tell your child that having oral sex is not okay. Don't just dictate your rule; give reasons behind it, too. Explain the risks to character, morals and health.
- Most importantly, your child has to feel special. If your child feels special at home, they will set a higher standard outside of the home. Peer pressure won't affect your child as much because they will value themselves.
- Try these suggestions for bringing up the topic with your children.