Sex Education is a program designed to help young people understand and appreciate the importance of sex in their lives. Sex education is an important step in a youngster’s development. The right approach can help him or she make informed decisions about sex, reduce teen pregnancies, and build a healthy body image. But why should a young person learn about sex? What are the benefits of sex education?
Sex Education Benefits
When the subject of sex is introduced to a youngster, he may have no idea of its importance and how to act in the context of a relationship. But with the proper guidance and discussions, this subject can be integrated into a youngster’s present and future. Hence, sex education is essential to help youngsters develop a healthy self-image and build a sense of empowerment.
The focus of sex education varies according to the country, but the general principle is the same in all nations. Nonetheless, sex education is still a hot topic among policymakers and sceptics and many Asian cultures consider sex education taboo and believe it encourages promiscuity.
Promotes Healthy Body Image
Research shows that young girls are more likely to discuss their sexuality with their parents than their male counterparts. And while it is certainly not the only reason for parents to talk with their children about sexuality, it is certainly a powerful one. The construction of teenage girls’ sexuality in popular culture is one of the biggest reasons why home-based sex education is so important. Parents of sons, for example, define life as an adventure, and they let their sons try anything and everything.
Despite this, many young people grow up with confusing and contradictory messages about sexuality. Then, as adults, we remain silent about these messages. But we must act now. The time is now to begin sexual education. There are no excuses for this – not even the lack of funding and resources. It is crucial that we give young people the tools they need to make responsible and positive choices about their bodies.
It reduces teen pregnancies
Many studies have examined whether sex education reduces teen pregnancy. In a study, researchers studied the pregnancy rates for women aged 15-19 in the U.S. between 1998 and 2016. They found that abstinence-only education was not effective in reducing teen pregnancies, and in fact, may increase the rate. Comprehensive sex and STD education, which includes abstinence as a desirable behaviour, was associated with the lowest rates of teen pregnancy.
Comprehensive sex education programmes were found to reduce teen pregnancy by reducing adolescent sex and increasing the use of contraception. Two-thirds of these programs had positive effects, and 30 per cent reduced the frequency of unprotected sex. Further, these studies are supported by data collected in the United States and other countries. However, the effectiveness of these programmes is controversial. Further research is necessary to prove that they are effective in reducing teen pregnancy.
It reduces sexual partners
Many studies have examined whether sexual education programs can improve youths’ choices. While there is no single study that can prove the effectiveness of sexual education, several meta-analyses of various programs show positive results in reducing the number of sexual partners. These studies looked at various sexual risk-taking behaviours, including initiation and duration of sex, and condom and other contraceptive use. One meta-analysis focused on programs that encourage youths to wait until they are married before having sex.
