Sex education in the United States has been the subject of endless controversy for years. Unlike many other developed countries, the US approach to sexuality education varies widely across states, leading to significant differences in the information and resources available to students. The debate surrounding what should be taught, when and how continues to be a hot topic among educators, policy makers, parents and advocates.
According to Guttmacher Institute21 states do not mandate sexuality education, and even in states that do, the information may not be medically accurate, unbiased, or useful to students. SIECUS reports that only 3 states mandate the teaching of comprehensive sexuality education in all schools. Check out the chart below for a closer look at how variable sex education is across the country today.
Abstinence-Only versus Comprehensive Sex Education
One of the main points of contention in sex education is the debate between abstinence-only and comprehensive approaches. Abstinence-only programs emphasize abstinence from sexual activity until marriage, often omitting information about contraception and safe-sex practices. On the other hand, comprehensive sexuality education covers a wider range of topics, including information about contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), consent, healthy relationships and LGBTQ+ issues.
Currently, 30 states require an emphasis on abstinence when sharing sex education, and 16 states rely on abstinence-only curricula. While these programs may intuitively seem like a potential solution to delaying teens from having sex, research has shown that abstinence-only sex education does not have the intended effect. Teens who have had abstinence-based sex education tend to explore their sexuality at the same time as their peers, but often lack vital information about how to keep themselves and others safe [2]. Research has shown that comprehensive sexuality education does not lead to earlier first sexual experiences or higher rates of STDs, and teens who received comprehensive sexuality education have lower rates of teenage pregnancy [2].
Challenges and confrontations
Several challenges hinder progress in sexuality education across the country. Resistance from some communities, cultural taboos, religious beliefs, and concerns about age-appropriate content are some of the obstacles educators and advocates face. Additionally, the lack of standardization leads to disparities in the quality and inclusiveness of sexuality education, leaving many students ill-equipped to make informed decisions about their sexual health. However, researchers have consistently shown that access to quality sexuality education is associated with a variety of positive outcomes, including lower rates of teenage pregnancy and miscarriage. Researchers have suggested that access to sex education and inexpensive contraceptives could reduce teenage abortion rates by up to 78% [1].
The importance of coherent and comprehensive education
Proponents of comprehensive sexuality education argue that providing accurate, age-appropriate information is vital to promoting sexual health and well-being. Inclusive education that recognizes different identities and orientations helps create a more accepting and supportive environment for all students. In a review of 80 research articles, Goldfarb and Lieberman found that comprehensive sexuality education resulted in a number of positive outcomes, including increased understanding and acceptance of sexual diversity, the cultivation of healthy relationships, enhanced social and emotional learning, and increased self-efficacy. in media literacy. The researchers also noted that comprehensive sex education reduces cases of sexual assault and intimate partner violence [3]. Overall, the authors’ review of three decades of research provides strong support for comprehensive sexuality education.
The Role of Parents and Guardians
While schools play an important role in sex education, parents can also provide important sexual health information to their children. In fact, teens often report that their parents are the most influential people in their lives when it comes to making sexual decisions. Open communication between parents and children about sexual health and relationships creates an environment where young people feel comfortable seeking guidance and support.
Looking for information on how to “speech?” Planned Parenthood offers a variety of parenting resources, including books, fact sheets and more, to help parents talk to their children about sexuality. You can also check out our podcast interviews with Lanae St. John and Debby Herbenick for in-depth discussions on the topic.
How can sex education be improved?
Understanding the different approaches to sexuality education across states underscores the need for ongoing discussions about the effectiveness and participation of these programs. Researchers continue to push for evidence-based, comprehensive sexuality education that meets the needs of all students, regardless of geographic location.
The future of sexuality education in the US is based on continued efforts to promote inclusivity, evidence-based approaches, and comprehensive programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual health and well-being. By prioritizing these approaches and encouraging open communication, we can strive for a future where all young people have access to accurate information and resources to make informed choices about their sexual health and relationships.
Bibliographical references:
[1] Peipert, JF, Madden, T., Allsworth, JE, & Secura, GM (2012). Prevention of unwanted pregnancies by providing contraception at no cost. Obstetrics and Gynecology. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e318273eb56
[2] Kohler, PK, Manhart, LE, & Lafferty, WE (2008). Abstinence only and comprehensive sex education and initiation of sexual activity and teenage pregnancy. The Journal of adolescent health: official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine, 42(4), 344–351.
[3] Goldfarb, ES, & Lieberman, LD (2021). Three Decades of Research: The Case of Integrated Sexuality Education. Journal of Adolescent Health, 68(1), 13-.
Want to know more about Sex and Psychology? click here for more from the blog or here to listen to the podcast. Follow along Sex and Psychology on FacebookTwitter (@JustinLehmiller), the Reddit to receive updates. You can also follow Dr. Lehmiller in YouTube and Instagram.
Image credits: Map created with mapchart.net, infographic by Emily Mendelson on Canva. Data from the Guttmacher Institute.
