Free sex is a spontaneous sexual act between two people based solely on mutual fondness, ranging from simple kissing (moist kiss the lips, cheeks, and tongue) to sexual penetration (striking, licking, sucking, caressing). Teenagers have free sex for several reasons, most importantly because of external and internal factors. First, they may be embarrassed or uncomfortable when engaging in adult activities, especially sexually. Secondly, they can be more experimental since their hormones are in a state of flux during this age.
For example, teenagers can be very sexual, but when it comes to “taking it to the bedroom,” they can be very anxious. This anxiety about explicit sexual activity compels them to rely on “verbal cues” in order to establish or end to their sexual arousal. Instead of relying on physical contact and explicit sexuality, they rely on visual stimulation and mental imagery – two factors that can lead to “free sex.” When adults indulge in casual sex, they are at risk for engaging in guilt-free sex, where no guilt is involved.
Adolescent girls have a heightened sexual desire because they are experiencing puberty. They want to experience various sexual pleasures, but they feel very guilty if they engage in such pleasure at the expense of their parents or others. Thus, they seek to suppress their sexual desires through “free sex.” During this time, they will engage in “semi-consolidation” of sexual urges and feelings. Through promiscuity, they learn that their bodies belong to their parents and that sexual activity is only permissible within a marriage.
As mentioned, teenagers have also used the Internet to satisfy their sexual impulses. Because they have the technology and the comfort of their own homes, they feel at ease when they hookup with someone from an online dating site. This allows them to avoid “barbaric” situations at home. If a parent sees their child engaging in free sex, they can become very concerned. Therefore, it is important to monitor what their children are doing on the Internet.
The above examples of when parental control of Internet usage comes into play highlight the necessity of exercising moral judgment when one’s children are exposed to Internet pornography. Not all sites pose a direct sexual content; however, some do. The resulting harm a child can experience through exposure to pornography cannot be ignored. This harm is not immediately noticeable, but it is definitely an ethical dilemma.
To prevent potential harm, it is imperative to use the precautionary measures provided through online dating services. This allows parents to monitor their children’s sexual activity while they are free to date and meet people in public. With free online dating sites, parents can control their children’s relationship decisions by being aware of any explicit content that might be viewed on a site they are utilizing. Through positive consent, parents are also in a position to monitor their children’s search history and Internet activities to ensure they are not engaging in casual sex at the expense of their own health and well-being. This proactive approach can make the difference between unhealthy casual sex and healthy dating relationships that lead to long-term relationships.
