Help for Parents of Struggling Teens

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Camp Huntington is a co-ed, residential program for children and young adults with special learning and developmental needs. The daily activities offered at Camp Huntington stimulate a child's awareness and interest in their environment and relationships, motivating them to build important foundations of self-confidence, self-efficacy, personal growth and independence. Learn more about Camp Huntington >>

One in Four Tweens Believe Sex is Normal Part of "Going Steady"

A disturbing study from Teenage Research Unlimited found that half of "tweens" ages 11 to 14 years old are in a steady dating relationship, and one in four believes that sex is a normal part of "going steady." Almost two-thirds said they knew someone who had been abused by a dating partner, and 25% said dating violence is a serious problem.

The study, sponsored by Loveisrespect.org and Liz Claiborne, involved a survey of 1000 tweens from all demographic groups.

Psychologist Vivian Freedman said this age group is "skipping the stage of walking each other home from school," and they believe that sex is what you do when you have a boyfriend or girlfriend. Because they are too young for committed relationships, they experience more jealousy and anger.

The study found that tweens have sex in places their parents could not imagine, such as during parties.

Freedman believes tweens today are less happy and lonelier, so they try to fill a void with peer relationships.

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