Should sex education be taught in schools?

With the increasing ubiquity of sexual images, teenagers receive a constant stream of sexual imagery and information. But whose responsibility is it to equip children and teens with the necessary knowledge to form attitudes about sex, relationships and intimacy? Is it the parents'? Or should educators provide teens with comprehensive sex education classes in schools?

No, it shouldn't

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

Every child is different

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

A waste of valuable class time

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

It makes teenagers more promiscuous

A comprehensive sex education program will make teenagers more promiscuous. Explore

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. Explore

It leaves teens vulnerable to sexual assault

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

An assault on spirituality

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

Why teach instinct?

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

Yes, it should

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.

Nobody gets left behind

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. Explore

Teachers are better educators

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

Parents want it

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

Promoting 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? Explore

Reduces unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases

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

Creates a more inclusive environment

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

This page was last edited on Wednesday, 7 Aug 2019 at 14:12 UTC

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