Miley Cyrus has spoken out about people perceiving her as a role model and has revealed that it was never her intention to be seen that way, rather she sees herself as the “voice of a generation”.

She revealed in an interview with Now magazine that she is uncomfortable about being branded a role model and that she is not intentionally going out of her way to shock anyone.

She said: “I think people are fascinated 'cos I'm a voice of a whole generation. Not because I think I'm like any role model, 'cos I don't want that title. Role models should be real heroes who've done real things. If people don't understand what I'm doing, they'll never get me."

She also spoke about her recent provocative performances including her notorious show with Robin Thicke at the MTV VMAs.

"I didn't know how people would react, although I wanted to shake things up. It turned out to be more chaotic than I imagined and I love it.

"This is the kind of energy you want to create because it's going against the grain - and because so many people are attacking you, it's even better. You're pushing the limits of what society thinks you should be allowed to do.

"There's a big misconception when it comes to young people and sex. Kids can see almost everything on TV or the internet now, so it doesn't make sense for parents not to talk to their kids about sex or pretend teens aren't thinking about it.

"Sex should be something very beautiful and expressive. It shouldn't be covered up and people made to feel ashamed about it. That's what creates problems and f**ks people up."