As moms raising boys, how do we talk to our kids about sexual assault, consent, peer pressure and the bystander effect without making them feel ashamed of being boys? We brought in Registered Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder of Toronto Psychology Wellness Group, Dr. Nina Mafrici to help us unpack what is happening when a group of young people knows something is wrong but nobody speaks up. We get into pack mentality, group chats, alcohol and drugs, consent, the freeze response, and why “just speak up” can be much harder for a teenager than it sounds. What we can actually do as parents? How do we prepare our kids for situations before they happen? How do we teach them to trust their gut, look out for their friends, stand up when something feels wrong and choose people who share their values?
Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is be the one who says, “Guys, this is not okay.”
Keywords
parenting, consent, sexual violence, peer pressure, adolescent development, mental health, values, safety, communication, teenage boys and girls
Key Topics
The impact of high-profile sexual violence cases on youth
How to talk to children about consent and boundaries
The role of peer pressure and group dynamics in risky behaviors
Strategies for fostering values of respect and integrity in boys and girls
The importance of early and ongoing conversations about safety and morality
How to empower boys to be responsible and respectful
The influence of social media and group chats on behavior
The neurobiology of trauma and dissociation in assault cases
Natural consequences and learning from mistakes
Building a home environment of trust and open communication
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