Pornography ~ Elder M. Russell Ballard

In these last days it is essential—even critical—that parents and children listen to and learn from one another. ... I know that father-son relationships are never perfect, but everything I am going to suggest to you is possible if you will put in the effort to make it happen. ...

Young men, with these three simple suggestions you can take full advantage of your relationship with your dad and make your relationship with your father better than it is right now. ... 1. Trust your father. ... 2. Take an interest in your father's life. ... 3. Ask your father for advice. ...

Fathers, Here are some things you can do to enhance your relationship with your sons.  1. Listen to your sons -- really listen to them. ... 2. Pray with and for your sons. ... 3. Dare to have the "big talks" with your sons. You know what I mean: talks about drugs and drinking, about the dangers of today's media -- the Internet, cyber technologies, and pornography -- and about priesthood worthiness, respect for girls, and moral cleanliness.  While these should not be the only subjects you talk about with your sons, please don’t shy away from them. Your boys need your counsel, guidance, and input on these subjects.

I am especially concerned that we communicate openly and clearly with our sons about sexual matters. Your sons are growing up in a world that openly embraces and flaunts early, casual, and thoughtless promiscuity. Your sons simply cannot avoid the blatant sexual imagery, messages, and enticements that are all around them. Fathers and Church leaders need to have open and frequent discussions that teach and clarify how young men of the priesthood handle this issue. Be positive about how wonderful and beautiful physical intimacy can be when it happens within the bounds the Lord has set, including temple covenants and commitments of eternal marriage. Studies show that the biggest deterrent to casual sexual activity is a wholesome attitude that connects such personal relationships with genuine commitment and mature love.

~ Elder M. Russell Ballard, "Parents and Children: Listening, Learning, and Loving," New Era, February 2011.