“The Midwest Teen Sex Show,” whose self-declared mission is Sex Ed 101, aims to discuss the pros and cons of teen sexuality and is intended and targeted toward teens, not adults.
The podcasts have sparked mixed reactions from parents.
“I would like for them to keep themselves pure and wholesome and abstain from sex and not look like a geek,” said Plano mother Rhonda Cochran.
Jennifer Kauffman, of Dallas, found only one episode appropriate for her 11-year-old son, Mitchell, — the one dealing with abstinence. Still, some of the dialogue was over his head, she said.
“I think they are appropriate for older kids. I think it’s going to take some explaining for younger kids if they do get their hands on it,” said Kauffman’s mother Jennifer.
But, doctor Richard Honaker, a family practice physician said the show isn’t blunt enough.
“I think it’s real. You gotta hit them over the head. Parents are naive about what their young people know and they’re naive about what their young people are willing to participate in,” said Honaker.
Hokaker said children 13 and older should absolutely see the skits.
“I think it needs to be more blunt and say, ‘Here is a picture of venereal warts. do you want these warts?’,” Honaker said.
In an e-Mail to NBC 5, one of the creators of the show defended the podcasts: “I know some teens who are not ready for this type of content, but I know many more who see a lot worse than ‘Midwest Teen Sex Show’ on a regular basis.”
Children under the age of 18 are required to get permission from a parent to listen to the show, and as always, parents can decide for themselves if they show is something that is appropriate for their child. But the show is leaving no doubt that the podcasts are attention grabbing no matter the verdict.