Exploring Descriptive Norms of Parent-Child Communication About Pornography Among Parents of Middle-Schoolers

• In Event: Powerful Parents, Powerful Peers? Perhaps: When, If, and How Parents and Peers Influence Children amd Teens' Media Experiences (HHD Session)

Abstract

Exposure to pornography is becoming a reality for many adolescents. Open, frequent, and direct communication about pornography between parents and children is needed, yet few investigations have explored this area. In aims of providing groundwork for future parent-child pornography communication explorations, I used Rimal and Real’s (2005) theory of normative social behavior (TNSB) to conduct 33 in-depth interviews with parents of at least one middle-school-aged child. Interviews focused on descriptive norms related to societal beliefs about pornography, pornography’s impact on adolescents, and the courses of actions that most parents undertake when adolescents are exposed to pornography. Articulated perceptions suggest that most parents view adolescent exposure to pornography as negative although exposure to pornography is becoming more normative for adolescents. Obstacles such as parental fear, discomfort, and a lack in sexual and technological communication openness/knowledge were conveyed. Recommendations related to strengthening parental education about pornography and the importance of overall positive parent-child relationships are offered.

Author

• Jessica Zurcher, Brigham Young University