Sex is one of the most important but least talked-about subjects in parenting. Many mothers and fathers dread talking about it with their children, and so they avoid the topic or rush through a one-time discussion. From the sex education survey I conducted in collaboration with Dr. Phil, I have learned that silence about sex is still prevalent and creates serious problems for many of us. Yet all parents want what's best for their children, and open communication about sex is vital to insuring that a child develops a healthy sexuality-one that honors the family's moral tradition and sees sex as a wholesome part of the larger phenomenon of love. We have to teach our children-contrary to the message they usually get from the media-that sex is more than bodily acts, that its meaning and its consequences go far beyond the physical. Honest talk that conveys such a message about sex not only protects a child from negative influences, but enriches and strengthens family bonds. In short, talking about sex is not just good for your kids-it's good for the whole family!

But how do you actually do it? What are the specific steps you should take, based upon your circumstances, to make sure that sex and love remain connected for your child? It is to guide you in answering these questions that I wrote the book What's Love Got To Do With It? In the book, I tackle the numerous issues that face parents and children-issues such as when to first talk about sex and how and what to say when confronted with difficult questions and situations, as well as how to prepare a child for the risks of sex in our complicated times. This book zeros in on specific issues and concrete situations from many different types of families, using my decades of experience as a psychologist, professor-and parent. At this website you can sample some of the information in the book, and learn more about the value both of developing your awareness of your own sexuality and of candid and loving discussions about sex with your child.