They Need to Sow Their Wild Oats

Abstract

The period known as emerging adulthood is characterized by transition, particularly related to relationships and intimacy. Previous research has suggested that parental influence, particularly related to identity development and beliefs, is an ongoing process that continues throughout the emergence of adulthood. One way parents may shape this process is through memorable messages. This study examined the messages mothers communicated to children regarding sexuality and relationships using Knapp, Reardon, and Stohl’s conceptualization of memorable messages. Eighty-four percent of mothers could recall memorable messages. Similar to previous research regarding sexual double standards, the majority of messages reflected traditional gender ideologies, such as women remaining abstinent and men “playing the field.” Nontraditional maternal messages were infrequent and most often intended for sons.