Search

How Do I Talk to My Teen Son about Wet Dreams?

September 22, 2023

My teen son had a wet dream last night. What should I do next? How do I talk about this with him?

A “wet dream” is an unexpected release of seminal fluid or semen while your son is asleep. Since a wet dream usually happens at night, the medical term is “nocturnal emission.”

Seminal fluid is manufactured by the prostate gland and carries sperm out of the body during an ejaculation. It’s important to know that this is not a sign of a bodily malfunction, disease, or moral failure. Many times, it is a sign that the young man is allowing for his body to do its healthy cycling instead of choosing to masturbate or be sexually active.

It can, however, catch an adolescent off guard if he has not had any advance notice that 1) it can occur, and 2) it is not unusual. If you haven’t yet given your son this information, now would be an excellent opportunity to let him know.

Help your son not feel shame with this reality, but to gain understanding. And while you’re at it, discuss a much broader topic: What happens to him as he makes the transition from childhood to adulthood? 

This should not be limited to a one-time “birds and bees” conversation. Instead, this should be part of an ongoing series of conversations with him that encompass the length and breadth of his transition.

These are some of the topics you can discuss:

Above all, he needs to know that you are a calm, reliable, non-shaming source of information and insight about all matters relating to navigating this important period of his life.

For more resources on this topic, please explore our preteens here. To speak with one of our professional counselors, call 1-800-A-FAMILY (1-800-232-6459) for some guidance regarding your specific situation.

About the Author

Read More About:

You May Also Like

Teenagers

The 5 Love Languages And Your Teen

Do you ever wonder how you can help your teens feel loved? Consider how they might tend to feel more appreciated through one specific love language.

parent talking with teen
Teenagers

How To Talk With Your Teen About Sexual Behavior

Learn how to approach awkward conversations about sexual behavior with your teen. Explore some tips and strategies for these conversations so you can prioritize your relationship over “getting it right.”

boys to men
Parenting Sons

Boys To Men: What Your Boy Needs To Become A Good Man

What does a boy really need to become a man? The world will grasp for your son’s attention and mind. However, you can develop healthy habits in your boy to help him develop and grow into a man of character and respect.

Submit Your Parenting Questions

We’d love to hear from you! Share your questions about parenting here. 

Submit Your Parenting Question Here

First Name