About This Episode

The chemical changes that take place during periods of infatuation can cloud judgement and blur the lines between true commitment and attraction. In a truly committed relationship, both parties desire a future together and are willing to make the sacrifices necessary for that to happen. As opposed to sitting down with children to have a forced, singular “talk,” it’s important for parents to guide their children through the increasingly ambiguous world of romantic relationships on a day to day basis. Tune in for insights and tips on how to talk to your children about making smart relationship choices.

Featuring

  • Dr. Scott Stanley Research Professor and Codirector of the Center for Marital & Family Studies

  • Alicia La Hoz, Psy.D. Founder & CEO

  • Omar Ramos Host

  • Veronica Avila Co-Host

Additional Info

RECAP

The chemical changes that take place during periods of infatuation can cloud judgement and blur the lines between true commitment and attraction. In a truly committed relationship, both parties desire a future together and are willing to make the sacrifices necessary for that to happen. As opposed to sitting down with children to have a forced, singular “talk,” it’s important for parents to guide their children through the increasingly ambiguous world of romantic relationships on a day to day basis. This is done by being physically and emotionally present in a child’s life and taking advantage of the teachable moments that naturally present themselves throughout the day. Ultimately, modeling committed love in your own relationship speaks volumes to your children about what true love really looks like and helps offset the cultural influence pushing them away from marriage and commitment.

CONVERSATION

What do you think distinguishes true love from infatuation?

THIS WEEK'S ACTION

  • Be on the lookout for opportunities to connect with your child and address the topics of love and romance in a way that is appropriate for his or her age group.
  • Instead of trying to force a conversation out of the blue, pay attention to the messages already being relayed in movies, music, conversations with friends, etc., and ask meaningful questions about them.
  • Acquire resources, starting with the tools below, to learn more about healthy relationship practices so that you will be better equipped to discuss these matters with your children when the opportunities arise.

TOOLS

The following tools can help you along the way.

Relationship DUI - are you sure you're in love?

Give me a sign: What Signals Commitment?

The Struggle is Real podcast is based off the book, The Struggle is Real: Parenting in the 21st Century written by Dr. Alicia La Hoz & Dr. Paul Meier. 

 

More Episodes

Talking to children about divorce

Divorce is a stressful and emotional experience for everyone involved. And when children are involved, it can often leave them feeling as though their whole...

Listen to Episode

Raising future spouses

As a parent, have you ever thought that you aren't just raising your own children, but you are also raising someone else's future spouse, life...

Listen to Episode

Preparing them for puppy love

The current cultural trend in America is for children to begin dating at earlier and earlier ages. This means that now, perhaps more than ever...

Listen to Episode

Marriage or baby carriage: Talking to your kids about marriage & education

The “success sequence,” is the research supported notion that people who get an education, then a job, then get married and, lastly, have children are...

Listen to Episode