It can be hard to have a serious conversation with a teen.They might be wary of communicating with you, or you may be unsure of what to say.Some conversations are too important to ignore.Teens need to be aware of AIDS and how it can be spread.You should have facts before you begin the conversation.It will help you feel more confident.You can have a constructive dialogue.Follow up with the teen to make sure their questions have been answered.
Step 1: Find reliable sources.
It's important to have all of your facts straight when you talk about AIDS.If you give a teen false information, they may engage in risky behavior.Good sources will let you know that your information is accurate.You can head to the library.The reference librarian can point you to the most recent scientific research.You should talk to your doctor.Ask if they have any information.Local, free healthcare clinics often have more information on STDs such as HIV/AIDS.The HIV/AIDS case managers are knowledgeable about the statistics and prevalence of HIV in the community.The prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the community may affect teens more than national statistics.Look for trustworthy sources such as aids.gov.
Step 2: Understand the details about AIDS.
It's time to start learning once you find some good sources.New research on AIDS is published regularly, even if you think you're well-informed.Be aware of the most current information.Statistics about AIDS and the spread of the disease can be found here.You can take a global view, or focus on your geographic region.You can learn the facts about HIV.A blood test is the only way to determine if someone has AIDS.
Step 3: Understand how HIV is spread.
It's important that your teen knows howAIDs is transferred.Facts about the causes of AIDS are a must in your discussion.It's possible to say that having sex just once with an infectious person can transfer the disease.You should tell the teen that the best way to avoid becoming HIV positive is to abstain from drugs and needles.You can't tell whether someone is infectious by looking at them.
Step 4: Ask questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions if you're not sure about the facts.Your doctor can be able to help in this situation.I'm going to discuss AIDS with Jenny.What are the most important facts for me to say?A family member or close friend can give you advice.I'm nervous about asking Jenny about AIDS.How should I start the conversation?It's normal to be nervous.Think about what you want to say and why before you speak.Some visual aids could be prepared to help you navigate through the information.Honesty is a must when it comes to the thoughts and questions you have on the subject.If you write these down, you might be able to anticipate some of the questions teens might ask.The school nurse could be helpful.Do you know if there is any literature on AIDS for teens?
Step 5: You should choose the right time and place.
You want your teen to feel at ease, too.Pick a place where you can talk.The teen's room could be a good place.You can try the dinner table.Pick a place where you won't be interrupted.Timing is very important.Pick a day and time that neither you nor the teen are in a hurry.It might work well to have a Sunday evening.If you or your teen are tired or stressed, don't have this important talk.Don't talk about the subject the night before your teen has an exam.
Step 6: Pick a person to start a conversation with.
The tone of the talk will be set by your first words.Take some time to think about the best opening.Do you want to get straight to the point or ease into the topic?It depends on you and your teen."When do you have time to talk this week?"I want you to be aware of the facts about AIDS.You could be more free.Do you have time to knock on your teen's door?
Step 7: You should be direct.
Make your points clear when you start the conversation.Quickly get to the point.I want to make sure you know the causes of HIV and AIDS.I want to give you some information.Avoid subjects that are uncomfortable.You might feel weird talking to teenagers about sex.Stay calm and face the topic head on.I'd like to talk to you about condoms and make sure you know how to use them.
Step 8: Tell the truth.
Don't be afraid to talk to teens about your feelings."AIDS is a terrible disease, and I want to do everything I can to help you stay safe."Try to answer questions as honestly as possible.Explain risks.You don't have to scare teens, but you should be honest about dangers.Do you understand what I'm telling you?Does it make sense that needles can be dangerous?
Step 9: Carefully listen.
You want your teen to listen to you.Give them the same respect as you set a good example.Make sure to pay attention to what your teen says.Maintaining eye contact and nodding your head while your teen speaks is a good way to demonstrate active listening.Referring to your understanding willIllustrate it.You could say, "I hear you need more information about how to avoid contracting AIDS."
Step 10: Ask questions.
The initial conversation is important, but it's also a good idea to make this an ongoing discussion.Asking questions every so often is a great way to encourage your teen to keep talking.You could say that the talk last week about AIDS was useful.Have you thought about the subject in the last few days?Have you covered the topic in your health class?
Step 11: Give answers.
Your teen may have asked you some questions during your talk.It's okay if you don't know all of the answers.Make sure to get back to the teen after you've had time to think about the question.Tell Kelly how long it takes for HIV to develop into AIDS.Before I answered you, I wanted to make sure I had all my facts straight.Let's discuss it more now.
Step 12: You can find teachable moments.
There are many ways to bring up a subject.A teachable moment is taking advantage of the opportunity to talk about something.Maybe you are watching a movie with your teen.When the character of Amy found out she had AIDS, it was sad.How did that make you feel?While reading the news, listening to the radio, or observing people around you are some of the teachable moments.
Step 13: Provide the necessary resources.
Additional information is one of the best ways to follow up with teens.You can make sure the teen knows where to find accurate information if they don't feel comfortable talking to you.Make sure your teen is aware of the resources.If your teen is reluctant to talk, you can send them an e-mail or text with links to good sites.