The Teen Doctor

Answers to your questions about adolescents.

I'm Afraid That I'm One Hot Mess

I find my teen daughter's male friends attractive

Dear Dr. G.,

This is probably one of the most disturbing questions that you'll get. I am a 45 year old mother of two lovely late teen girls. Lately, my 17 year old has started dating and the boys ages 17 and 18 have been visiting at the house (when I'm home ONLY). I find myself looking at these young men and finding them very attractive. Look, I would never act on any of these feelings but for heaven's sake I did NOT expect to have sick feelings like this. And yes, I did see The Graduate when I was younger and I do not want to follow in Mrs. Robinson's footsteps. Am I normal or am I a sick woman?

Another Mrs. Robinson?

Dear Mom,

The Graduate was a very popular movie for many reasons. One of those reasons is that it resonated with many middle aged women who despite their age continue to find younger men attractive. Clearly, Mrs. Robinson stepped into a zone where she didn't belong and,of course, it is not a place that I would recommend that anyone go for obvious emotional, legal, and ethical issues.

Nonetheless, it is absolutely not uncommon for an older woman to find a handsome young man attractive. Don't older men find the young women attractive? I suggest that you monitor your behavior and make sure that you are not flirting with these boys or seeking any sort of approval from them. You may continue to admire them -tight young bodies and all but the buck stops there. Stay in your motherly role and you will neither embarrass yourself or the teens.

Dr. G.

For more info. on topics like this take a look at my website:

http://www.talkingteenage.com/

 



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Barbara Greenberg, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of adolescents and their well-intentioned but exhausted parents.

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