'Lads mags' are a valuable source of information for teenage boys learning
about sex, according to the education watchdog.
A study from Ofsted claimed that teenagers were turning to weekly publications
such as Zoo and Nuts to learn about the facts of life to fill the void left by
parents, who are often failing to give sufficient support.
Although the magazines were judged by school inspectors to be sometimes
explicit and sexist, they were also deemed to be a "very positive" source of
advice for young people.
A number of students voiced concern that parents and teachers alike would only
address sex and relationship matters when it was "too late" and they had
reached puberty or already started experiencing sexual desire.
"The increase in the number of magazines aimed at young men, while at times
reinforcing sexist attitudes, has helped to redress the balance of advice
available to young people," said the report.
It says the 'problem pages' can
be a positive source of advice and reassurance for many
young people.
