Unsteady: What Every Parent Absolutely Must Know About Teenage Romance

by JeaNette G. Smith

What every parent absolutely must know about teenage romance.

Genres: Parenting

211 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Cindi · Rating 4 out of 5]

From all of the good books we have been reading, I have had the ideas in this book bubbling up in my mind for some time. I was glad to have words to put to my ideas; teenage romantic relationships are unnecessary and damaging both in an emotional and physical sense.

The book outlines the stages of relationships and explanations of what should be going on physically and emotionally. Also, information is given on the differences between boys and girls. Basically, we are shooting for friendship only until kids become young adults and are ready to begin looking at marriage as an option.

This book should be read by parents and youth leaders. Earlier is better than later. For instance, I have an 11 year old girl who I believe has a wonderfully intact self-esteem, but still, there's a boy she "likes." I think that this is because everyone else does the same, not because it is natural in any sense.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Should absolutely be required reading for every parent! Great advice and ideas!

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm sure most people would disagree with this book, which is probably why I liked it. Some of the language is a bit dated, but the overall concepts made sense to me and should resonate with those who consider marriage to be the ultimate goal of serious dating. I'm glad I stumbled upon a used copy at a time when I was struggling to organize my thoughts around how to set and explain dating guidelines to my teenage daughter.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I agree with almost every word in this book and think it is such wise counsel. My parents didn't let me date until I was 16 and I didn't date anyone exclusively until I was 20, which is generally what is advocated in this book. However, my parents and I didn't walk the whole dating line perfectly and the truths taught in this book make it so clear how it should be. It was one of those reads where I had these ambigous thoughts and feelings about the subject, but here they are spelled out and explained, and I'm finally able to articulate and see why some things feel right and some things feel wrong.

This is an excellent read for parents, leaders, grandparents, teachers, and mentors of teenagers and young adults. Really, if you want the best for them, it's a must read.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title doesn't lie--every parent absolutely must read this book! Written from an LDS perspective (though certainly applicable to those of any faith) this book shows us why emotional intimacy is the pre-cursor to physical intimacy. If we want our children to remain chaste, we need to teach them the principles in this book long before they start dating.

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had already told my children that they would not be dating till they were old enough to get married so when I heard about this book I knew I had to read it. It explains all my feelings and more about teenage romances. They are unnecessary and destructive.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should be required reading for all parents! Read it before your teen is old enough to date. It will change the way you think about teen dating.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

what every parent of children age 10 & up absolutely must read to prepare their children, and themselves, for teenage romance. a comprehensive look at how steady dating affects our youth.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The things I wish I knew in high school!!!!