Everyone probably suspects that the more connected parents are to their children, the better off their children will be.
But some parents may not realize just how powerful that connection can be. A new study from Planned Parenthood shows that parent-child connectedness is a key strategy in reducing teen pregnancy and building strong families.
The report came out about the same time as a new study from Teenwise Minnesota showing that the state's teen birth rate has fallen to its lowest point in at least 40 years. While causes of the downward trend are subject to debate, Planned Parenthood said that the connection between children and parents is a key factor in preventing teen pregnancies and many other negative adolescent outcomes.
The connection is described as a "super protector" that buffers teens from 33 specific risks they face, including unintended pregnancy; HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases; violence; depression; eating disorders; alcohol; tobacco and drug use; and poor academic achievement.
Parents should seize this information as proof that what they say to their children, how much time they spend with them and what kind of role model they are makes a huge difference in the lives of their children.
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Here's more: In 2010, teens across the country were asked, "When it comes to your decisions about sex, who is the most influential?" The response, "parents," was the most popular answer by a long shot -- 46 percent, more than twice the next biggest influence, "friends," which was cited by 20 percent of those surveyed. Other responses: someone else - 8 percent, religious leaders - 7 percent, don't know/refused - 6 percent, siblings - 5 percent, teachers/educators - 4 percent and media - 4 percent.
In a 2010 Minnesota Student Survey the top reason teens cited for delaying intercourse was "One or both of my parents would object."
So, yes, parents, it may seem like you're losing the war sometimes when it comes to raising your teenage son or daughter. It may seem like your words are hitting a brick wall or met with a sarcastic roll of the eyes. But they do listen. They do care what you have to say. They do want your advice.
You just have to keep trying, keep communicating and keep remembering that you are a "super protector" for your child's future.
ALEXANDRIA ECHO PRESS
