By Marissa
As teens, it’s easy to be influenced by what’s in the media. Both the internet and TV feature a lot of sexual content, especially when it comes to relationships. The problem? While processing this information, we unconsciously set unrealistic expectations for ourselves and our future partners. We have a distorted image of what our relationships should look like and how our partners should act toward us. Here are some things to keep in mind when watching TV:
- Despite what the media portrays, there is no standard that your sex life should conform to. Your sex life is deeply personal, and everybody’s is different. The relationships we see on TV may seem perfect, but it’s important to realize that they are not realistic. Yes, the fairytale romances that we’ve grown so accustomed to seeing on TV seem nice, but the truth of the matter is, every relationship has its own set of problems.
- TV sends the message that everybody is having sex all the time. This is certainly not the case. Only 48% of teens 17 and younger have had sex and many teens are waiting longer to have sex than ever before. The decision to be sexually active should not be taken lightly. It’s a huge decision that requires a lot of thought and self-reflection. Once again, just because sexual innuendos are commonly included in TV shows doesn’t mean sex is actually that common in reality.
- Above all, what we see on TV is made-up. Watch as much TV as you want, but realize that most of what you watch is fictional. It’s made to sell, and let’s face it – sex sells. This does not mean, however, that sex is the only thing that matters in relationships.
Understanding all of this will allow you to be more skeptical of what you watch and to make healthier and more informed decisions about your sex life. It’s very possible and highly likely that you will feel pressured to engage in sexual activity as a result of watching too much TV, but if you develop a critical eye to what you see in the media, you will be more confident in whatever decisions you make.