Teens don't want to see father nude

Dear Straight Talk: Our dad and mom think nothing of walking around naked at home. It didn't bother us when we were younger and were taught to be casual ourselves. However, since we've reached puberty (15 and 13), it really bothers me and my sister to see our dad this way. We aren't prudes and don't have a problem with nudity around our mom and other females, but we started locking our door because our dad would think nothing of walking in on us when we were undressed. We also have a 10-year-old brother, and while it doesn't bother him to see our mom nude now, it probably will pretty soon. We think opposite-sex nudity is not appropriate once you reach puberty. -- Cindy, Sacramento, Calif.

Nicole, 22: If you feel uncomfortable, things must change. Express to your parents how you feel. If your father doesn't understand, hopefully your mother will help persuade him to put some clothes on.

Christina, 20: I agree with you completely! I would talk to your mom first.

Gregg, 21: My dad always walked around nude, even in the back yard. For me it was no big deal, but my sister had a hard time when she hit puberty. She kept her privacy by locking the door and telling Dad to put some clothes on -- not that he ever did. I remember he would try to talk to her while he was naked and she would be like, "You're naked, no way!"

Jessie, 20: Of course this would be uncomfortable! Ask them bluntly to at least wear basic underwear. Remind them that in eight short years you all will be moved out and they can revert to nudity. While I would think parents would want to keep a family happy, you never know about people's habits. Either way, continue locking your door.

Colin, 18: Essentially the only reason public nudity is looked down on is because of sexual attraction. That's why there are male and female locker rooms. This sexual factor is removed in the case of immediate family. Freud would have a lot to say about this.

Ryann, 15: Opposite sex nudity is inappropriate once you reach a certain age. Talk to them. Maybe they don't realize the effect it has on you.

Dear Cindy: Nothing will change if you don't talk to your parents. Unfortunately, most parents won't automatically accommodate your request; they will ask "why" their nakedness bothers you. (Parents: It's important to inquire about the possibility of abuse, but your teen cannot and should not have to answer "why" questions that tap into the normal feelings of puberty.) If this happens to you, just say, "Nothing inappropriate is going on, but we're young women now and would prefer that you wear clothes." Repeat as needed. If it doesn't work, avert your eyes and lock your door. -- Lauren