The first time many of us heard the acronym “O.P.P.,” thanks to Naughty by Nature’s hit song, we might have been just like a curious five-year-old asking mom for an explanation. Fast forward to 2020, and Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s “WAP” took the world by storm, sparking conversations and, for some, parental panic. If you’re wondering What Does Wap Mean, you’re not alone. The internet practically buzzed with discussions, debates, and attempts to decipher the song’s explicit nature, especially when it comes to younger audiences.
“WAP,” for those still in the dark, stands for “wet-ass pussy.” The song is a bold and unapologetic anthem celebrating female sexuality. While the unedited version leaves little to the imagination, radio edits cleverly morph the explicit phrase into the tamer “wet and gushy.” However, even the softened version can raise eyebrows and questions, particularly from children who might overhear the tune.
This raises a crucial question for parents and caregivers: how do you navigate these conversations when kids ask about explicit song lyrics? To get some expert guidance, we spoke with Erin Harper, a nationally certified school psychologist and assistant professor at Texas A&M-Commerce. Her insights offer a practical approach to turning potentially awkward moments into valuable teaching opportunities.
Decoding “WAP”: What it Stands For
Let’s address the elephant in the room directly: WAP meaning is “wet-ass pussy.” It’s a sexually explicit term, and the song uses it to celebrate female pleasure and confidence. Understanding this definition is the first step for any adult preparing to discuss the song with a child. It’s important to be informed and ready to provide age-appropriate explanations.
Why “WAP” Sparked a Conversation
“WAP” wasn’t just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon. It topped charts, broke records, and ignited discussions about female sexuality, censorship, and the explicitness of mainstream music. For many, it was a powerful anthem of female empowerment. For others, it was considered too vulgar, especially considering its widespread popularity and potential exposure to children. This cultural impact is why understanding what does WAP mean became so relevant in households and online discussions alike.
Expert Advice: Talking to Kids About Explicit Lyrics like “WAP”
Navigating conversations about explicit lyrics doesn’t have to be daunting. Erin Harper provides practical advice for parents and caregivers facing these questions:
Ask What They Know First
When a child asks about song lyrics, start by understanding their current understanding. “One of the first things to do is to ask the child or adolescent what they already know and truly listen to what they have to say,” Harper advises. This helps you tailor your explanation to their level of comprehension and address any misconceptions they might already have.
Be Neutral and Open
Children need to feel comfortable asking questions without fear of judgment. Harper emphasizes the importance of maintaining a “neutral” tone. Whether you find the question funny, embarrassing, or concerning, your reaction can influence a child’s willingness to ask questions in the future. Reassure them that they can come to you with these topics without judgment.
Use Proper Terminology
When explaining body parts mentioned in songs, use accurate and respectful language. Harper suggests, “I would be sure to tell the child the actual name of the body part (e.g., vagina or penis) because using nicknames for body parts may convey the message that something is wrong with/taboo about the actual name of the body part.” This promotes healthy understanding and reduces shame around sexual anatomy.
Age-Appropriate Explanations
The depth of your explanation should depend on the child’s age and developmental stage. “Younger children typically aren’t ready to discuss details about sexual content in songs,” Harper notes. For younger kids, a simpler explanation focusing on different ways people express themselves might suffice. Older children and adolescents can handle more in-depth conversations about sexuality and media literacy. As Ashley Sivells, a therapist, suggests, for younger children, you might say “it’s a song about women feeling strong and happy.”
Smiling mouth graphic symbolizing open conversation about explaining the meaning of WAP song lyrics to children.
Turn it into a Learning Opportunity
Exposure to explicit lyrics can be a springboard for broader conversations about sex, sexuality, and media literacy. Harper encourages parents to “use the exposure as an opportunity for teaching and learning about sex, sexuality, and related topics.” This proactive approach empowers children to critically analyze media and develop a healthy understanding of sexuality.
Navigating Radio Edits and Parental Controls
Even with radio edits, the underlying message of “WAP” remains suggestive. Harper suggests applying the same approach to both the edited and unedited versions. For parents who choose to restrict access to certain songs or videos, open communication is key. Explain your reasoning, whether it’s based on your values or concerns about age-appropriateness. However, acknowledge that complete restriction might be unrealistic in today’s media landscape. Equipping children with critical thinking skills and open communication channels is often more effective than outright banning content.
Conclusion
Understanding what does WAP mean is just the starting point. The real value lies in how we, as adults, respond to children’s curiosity about explicit content. By embracing these moments as opportunities for open communication, age-appropriate education, and critical media engagement, we can help young people navigate a complex media landscape and develop a healthy understanding of sexuality and self-expression. Instead of shying away from difficult conversations, we can empower the next generation to be informed, thoughtful, and open-minded individuals.
