Navigating Teen Sexting and Dating Violence with Dr. Jeff R. Temple
I think that the way we think about it, the way you just said it, the way I think about it, is probably not correct.
Parenting teens in today's digital age comes with unique challenges, and sexting and dating violence are among the most concerning. In this episode of 'A Way Through', Dr. Jeff R. Temple, a seasoned psychologist and the Founding Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at the University of Texas Medical Branch, dives into these sensitive topics. With over 200 scholarly publications to his name, Dr. Temple brings a wealth of knowledge to help parents tackle these issues head-on. Dr.
Temple offers practical advice on how to initiate healthy conversations with teens about the risks associated with sexting and ways to prevent dating violence. He doesn't shy away from discussing the double standards often applied to females and males in sexting scenarios, urging parents to address these biases openly. The conversation also touches on conflict resolution skills, which are crucial for teens navigating relationships. A key highlight of this episode is Dr.
Temple's insights into the Fourth R program, which focuses on building healthy relationships among teens. He shares how the pandemic has affected these programs and underscores the importance of pro-social adults in a teen's life. These adults play a pivotal role in guiding teens through the complexities of modern relationships and digital interactions. For parents dealing with teens who have substance use disorders, Dr. Temple provides additional strategies to manage these dual challenges effectively.
His empathetic approach and actionable advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to support their teen's well-being in today's interconnected world.