In modern society, the phenomenon of sexual education has become widespread. In addition to conducting a conversation with parents, many educational institutions pay attention to creating an entire curriculum to study this topic. However, to this day, in many countries, this topic is taboo, which has consequences for society. Sex education is valuable for society, as it reveals not only such essential topics as sex but also sexuality, relationships, gender, and sexual health.
First, it is vital to define precisely what is included in the definition of sexual education. This is motivated by the fact that for many individuals, this term is associated only with knowledge about sexual intercourse. However, “it explores values and beliefs about those topics and helps people gain the skills that are needed to navigate relationships with self, partners, and community, and manage one’s own sexual health” (What is Sex Education? para. 2). Multiple studies have proven the positive effects that education has for societies. Goldfarb and Lieberman distinguish such outcomes as an appreciation of sexual diversity, lower homophobia, understanding of gender and gender norms, Dating and intimate partner violence prevention, and DV and IPV awareness (16). It is worth noting that the latter topic is especially important for the younger generation. Increasing knowledge about sexually transmitted diseases is a critical necessity. This contributes not only to the preservation of health but also increases the cases of reporting and reduces perpetration and victimization.
Despite the many positive aspects of teaching secondary education at school, it is essential to understand that parents play a unique role in this process. A study conducted by Binti Abdullah et al. It showed that “the majority (79.5%) of the parents have good knowledge, and 82% agreed that sexuality information helps their children recognize and avoid sexual abuse” (2). In addition, this contributed to the spread of awareness about their own body, openness to a discussion of this topic, and provision of support. These aspects are critically important for the child and the further success of the introduction of sex education in the curriculum.
Opponents of the introduction of sexual education appeal to several negative consequences of this process. One of the leading arguments is that this initiative contributes to the corruption of the younger generation and becomes the focus of their attention. Thus, they lose interest in other areas of life, which reduces their learning performance. However, there are scientific papers that refute this point of view. UNESCO shows that “sexuality education – in or out of schools – does not increase sexual activity, sexual risk-taking behavior or STI/HIV infection rates” (Why Comprehensive Sexuality Education Is Important para. 8). Therefore, the need to promote this kind of knowledge is to spread it not only among children but also caregivers.
In conclusion, sex education is a critically important topic for society. Among the positive consequences of learning this topic can be highlighted reduction of health risks, awareness of gender and relationships, and the definition of one’s own sexuality. At the moment, many scientific studies confirm the need to disseminate this knowledge not only among the younger generation but also among their parents. Thus, sexual education is becoming one of the most important for inclusion in the educational program to improve sexual knowledge and reduce the risks to the health and well-being of the population.
Works Cited
Binti Abdullah, Nur Azira Fideyah, et al. “The Role of Parents in Providing Sexuality Education to their Children.” Makara Journal of Health Research, vol. 24, no. 3, 2020, p. 2.
Goldfarb, Eva S., and Lisa D. Lieberman. “Three Decades of Research: The Case for Comprehensive Sex Education.” Journal of Adolescent Health, vol. 68, no. 1, 2021, pp. 13-27.
“What is Sex Education?” Planned Parenthood, 2023, Web.
“Why Comprehensive Sexuality Education Is Important.” UNESCO, Web.