Contrary to stereotype, relationships based on intimacy and trust may be more important to teenage boys than sex new research suggests.

In fact reporting in the American Journal of Men’s Health a team of experts found that boys rarely objectify girls, or seek to push or trick them into having sex. And when sex does happen, they’re reluctant to boast about it. The findings were gleaned from a series of interviews conducted among 33 boys between the ages of 14 and 16. All were residents of a relatively low-income urban area and nearly all were black. This led the study authors to caution that the findings may not be generalizable to teens from different backgrounds.

That said few of those interviewed viewed sex as a priority and only half reported being sexually active.

In fact, a lack of sexual confidence or prior experience was actually a common concern.

Ultimately, most preferred sex in the context of a relationship based on closeness, vulnerability, and trust and envisioned their role as that of protector and caretaker.

I’m Dr. Cindy Haines with health information for your entire family.

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