As parents, we sometimes stumble upon uncomfortable situations, and discovering that your child has been watching pornography can be one of them. In this blog, we'll discuss what to do if you've caught your child watching porn and how to handle the situation while considering UK laws and guidelines.
Understanding the UK Law
It is not illegal for someone under 18 years old to watch porn. However, it could be illegal for someone to sell or share porn with a child under 18 years old.
Steps to Take:
1. Stay Calm and Approach with Empathy
Reacting with anger or judgment can cause your child to shut down or become defensive. Instead, approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Remember that curiosity is a natural part of growing up.
2. Initiate an Open Conversation
Engage your child in a calm and non-confrontational conversation. Ask them about their reasons for viewing pornography and what they may have learned from it. This dialogue is an opportunity to provide accurate information and guidance.
3. Provide Age-Appropriate Education
Offer age-appropriate information about relationships, sexuality, and the potential consequences of consuming explicit content. Ensure your child understands the importance of consent, respect, and healthy relationships.
4. Set Parental Controls
Consider setting up parental controls on devices and internet access to prevent accidental or deliberate exposure to explicit content. These controls can help you maintain a safer online environment for your child.
5. Encourage Critical Thinking
Teach your child to be critical of what they see online. Explain that pornography often portrays unrealistic and scripted scenarios that do not reflect real-life relationships.
6. Reinforce That Pornography is 18+ Content
It's essential to reinforce the fact that pornography is strictly intended for individuals aged 18 and above to ensure responsible consumption.
7. Seek Support If Needed
If you're concerned about your child's consumption of explicit content or their emotional well-being, consider seeking support from sex education professionals.
Remember that finding your child watching pornography is an opportunity for constructive dialogue and education. By approaching the situation with understanding and adhering to UK laws and guidelines, you can guide your child toward making informed and responsible choices regarding their online activities and relationships.
If you have any questions or need more information, make sure to book a free initial coaching session.
Marisol x
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