From the article: Top 10 Reasons to Support Comprehensive Education in Schools
Research has shown pretty conclusively that comprehensive sex education is probably the best bet for reducing teen pregnancy, STDs, and the like, but that doesn't mean programs still can't promote abstinence as part of their educational message.
What do you think the primary focus of school-based sex ed should be? Abstinence until marriage? Delaying sex until students are ready? STD Prevention? Pregnancy reduction?
Share your thoughts here, to tell us what you think should be taught in school... and what should be taught at home.
NOTE: To answer anonymously, log out of your account and post as a guest. Share Your Thoughts
Protect your body and life
- Protecting your healthy body from harm - choose your sexual partners carefully, (as few as possible, ideally one for both parties and starting at 18 or older), using condoms if you're unsure of your partner's status with STI's. You only have one body and need to take control - some of these diseases are life-long and nasty. I have a friend who lives with herpes after one reckless encounter in college. My partner and I waited, neither of us believe in casual sex and I don't have to worry about cervical cancer or STI's. I'd talk about prevention of HPV and other STI's; self-esteem, protecting yourself against unwanted pregnancies; women can get bc with no exams from HOPE at PP. These exams put women off and they take risks, these exams are optional and have nothing to do with BC. Putting barriers in front of BC is cruel, the ramifications are very serious for the woman. I wouldn't preach abstinence, but I would talk about consent and peer pressure, binge drinking and drug use.
- —Guest Jess
Education is Essential
- I was lucky enough to go to a religious school with a single semester of excellent sex ed. The foci were contraception, STDs, and delaying sex (including talking about the emotional and physical implications, both good and bad, of sexual activity). Most of us ended up with a fairly healthy view of sex and sexuality. I think full disclosure and good, scientifically-based information (including what to expect and myths and facts) are best for kids. The goal should be healthy sexuality - emotionally and physically. Kids should not feel pressured to have sex or to wait for marriage. They should have sex when they are ready, and on no one else's timetable.
- —jvpoliver
