Tag: Laura Widman

Apr 22, 2020

Interventions Boost Abstinence, Condom Use for Black Teens

The findings from NC State psychologists draw on dozens of sexual health studies involving Black youth. 

Jul 29, 2019

Interventions Aimed At Parents And Kids Boost Safe Sex Practices

A new study from NC State psychologists shows that interventions involving parents and children lead to safer sexual practices. 

Dec 7, 2017

Online Health Programs May Improve Sexual Health Among Female Teens

A 45-minute online sexual health program may improve the ability of teenage girls to become confident and effectively communicate about safe sex, a recent study suggests. Lead author and NC State psychology professor Laura Widman said the ability to talk about sexual health with a partner is one of the strongest predictors of whether a couple will engage in safer sex. 

Jan 11, 2017

Talking With Both Daughters and Sons About Sex

Parents tend to talk about sex more with daughters than with sons, but all teens need to know how to make safer decisions. Parents play a key role in shaping sexual decision-making among adolescents. Laura Widman, psychology, featured. 

Jun 27, 2016

Study: Overusing Social Media as an Adolescent May Hurt Later Love Life

A new study by researchers at NC State and UNC finds that when it comes to romance, the more adolescents communicate online with their boyfriends and girlfriends, the worse they manage conflict and asserting themselves in romantic relationships at a time when kids are developing complex interpersonal skills. Laura Widman, psychology, featured. 

Jun 16, 2016

Parent Teen Communication About Sex Positively Affects Safer Sex Behavior

NC State researchers reviewed studies conducted during the last 30 years which showed a small but positive effect of parental talks on teens' safe sex practices. Laura Widman, psychology, featured. 

May 12, 2016

The ‘Sex Talk’ Works

While it may make you cringe, having the “sex talk” with your kids works, according to new research led by psychology professor Laura Widman. After reviewing 30 years of studies from psychology and the medical field, Widman found that sexual communication with parents is one factor that can boost safer behavior among teens, including the use of condoms and contraception.