Should sex education be taught in schools?

Teenagers receive a constant stream of sexual imagery and information. Whose responsibility is it to equip children and teens with the knowledge to form attitudes about sex, relationships and intimacy? Is it the parents'? Or should educators provide teens with sex education classes in schools?

No, sex education should not be taught in schools

Teaching sex education in schools robs parents of the decision of when, and how much, to tell their child about sex.

Sex education is an assault on religious beliefs

A comprehensive sex education program in schools violates some religious principles.

Sex education leaves teens vulnerable to sexual assault

The way sex education is taught in a school setting leaves young adults vulnerable to sexual exploitation.

Sex education is a waste of valuable class time

Classroom time would be better spent on subjects that parents can't teach effectively.

Sex education makes teenagers more promiscuous

A comprehensive sex education program will make teenagers more promiscuous.

Sex education should not be taught in schools because every child is different

Children and teenagers develop at different rates. You cannot apply a one-size-fits-all approach to sex education.

Sex education allows teachers to promote an agenda

Many educators have their own personal views on matters like contraceptives, abortion and LGBTQ+ matters. Sex education in schools allows them to push this agenda on children and teens.

Sex education unnecessarily teaches an innate behavior

Humans have managed perfectly well for millennia without formal sexual instruction. Why teach something that is innate?

Yes, sex education should be taught in schools

School is where children hone their decision-making abilities and gain the skills to interpret the world around them. Sex should be a part of that education.

Sex education reduces pregnancies and STDs

In countries where comprehensive sex education (not just abstinance-only programs) are on the curriculum, unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted disease rates fall.

Sex education promotes healthy living

We teach the importance of exercise, a healthy diet, and good oral hygiene in schools. Why wouldn't we also teach good practices for sexual health?

Sex education reduces sexual guilt and anxiety

Many teenagers face enormous amounts of insecurity and anxiety surrounding sexuality, often leading to long term problems. This is largely caused by misinformation or lack of information about sex. Sex education could easily reduce this problem.

Sex education creates a more inclusive environment

A comprehensive sex education program that includes LGBTQ+ relationships helps make schools more inclusive.

Teachers should administer sex education

Teachers have committed their lives to educating children and teens. They can communicate far more effectively than parents.

Parents want sex education in schools

When polled, parents usually support making comprehensive sex education classes part of the curriculum.

Not everyone has access to sex education

Teenagers are always going to have sex. By putting sex education on a curriculum, no child gets left behind and is left vulnerable, without the knowledge to make informed decisions and protect themselves.
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This page was last edited on Friday, 23 Feb 2024 at 13:33 UTC