THE GIRL'S GUIDE TO RELATIONSHIPS, SEXUALITY & CONSENT

A handbook for teens engaged in the work of building healthy relationships—with themselves and with others—written by licensed clinical social workers with experience in this field.

Short, digestible chapters build on one another in this accessible handbook for building empowered relationships. The opening chapters, “So, What’s Important to You?” and “Know Your Worth and Others Will Too,” deal with relationship to self, providing definitions and tools for determining values and cultivating self-esteem. From this core emphasis on self-knowledge and self-love, the book branches out to cover topics that range from friendship to sexual relationships in the age of the internet. The authors are never judgmental or dismissive of teen concerns and focus on providing a tool kit for safe passage, no matter the reader’s path. The chapter entitled “Online Love Doesn’t Feel Virtual” honors digitally forged relationships while highlighting the importance of caution, while “Sex, No Sex, or Something Else? Set Your Terms” explains consent and encourages teens to make their own decisions using the principles of self-knowledge established earlier. Also discussed are body image, abuse, breakups, sexuality and gender identity, and safer sex practices. Each chapter includes illustrative anecdotes and exercises that invite positive action. The authors open with an informative and reassuring opening note for adults explaining the value and importance of sexuality education. Although the book references girls, there is much of value here for all readers.

Compassionate, holistic, purposeful.