Significant Others: Girlfriends & Boyfriends / Question
Published: January 21, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hi. I'm a 16-year-old guy and I want to know what's wrong with me when it comes to liking a girl. Whenever I like a girl, if any thoughts of sex with her come to my mind, I feel as if I am doing a crime by even thinking them. Is there anything wrong with me mentally?
Signed: Sex On His Mind
Dear Sex On His Mind,
TeenHealthFX thinks that NO--there is nothing wrong with you mentally.
Having sexual thoughts about someone you like is completely normal. Guys and girls both experience them. The progression from being attracted [to someone] to thinking of him/her sexually is both natural and healthy. These thoughts help us mature sexually and should not make you feel guilty. Thoughts are our own and do not harm anyone. They help us make decisions and cope with situations.
It is your actions that are most important. If you treat your partner with care and respect you should have nothing to feel guilty about. Finally, if you decide together that you are ready for sex, talk about it, and choose a reliable method of birth control to protect yourselves against STDs and pregnancy.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Suicide is the third leading cause of death among youths ages 15 to 20. 
