Erotic romance novels captivate more and more teenagers

Social media has brought romantic and sexually explicit novels to the reading lists of increasing numbers of teenagers. Parents are faced with the question of how to respond to such literature. Experts recommend abandoning bans in favour of open dialogue.

Romantic novels containing sexually explicit content have reached many teenagers' hands through the BookTok trend spreading on social media. The phenomenon confronts parents with the question of how to respond to such reading choices.

According to experts, the first step should not be to ban books. What matters more is creating an open and non-judgmental dialogue with the young person and taking an interest in what they are reading and why.

Why do teenagers read such books?

Young people often seek answers in literature to questions that fascinate them about life and relationships. Romantic love stories provide a safe environment in which to explore feelings and relationships through the lens of characters. Social media platforms such as TikTok have created a community where teenagers share recommendations and discussions about the books they have read.

What can parents do?

Specialists emphasise that it is important to understand which topics interest the young person, rather than to create resistance through bans. Parents could ask what they like about the book, discuss the characters' actions together, and if necessary, explain where the story's depiction differs from reality.

Open communication helps young people develop critical thinking about what they read and strengthens trust between parent and child, which in the long run is far more valuable than a ban.