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Abstract: 

In recent years, the emphasis on abstinence has undermined the value of sex ed curricula across the country. This article summarizes a range of current research studies that suggest, collectively that a failure to adequately socialize students to the full range of human sexuality—whether as a matter of sexual activity, gender roles, or related behaviors—leaves students with deficits in later years. The article concludes that abstinence-only approaches are not only ineffective, but are also unresponsive to public needs—nationwide polling of parents finds overwhelming support for sex education in K-12 schools and virtually all parents support information on a broad spectrum of sexual issues, including sexually transmitted infections.

Keywords: Cultural Debates and Sex Education Curricula

Affiliations:  1: Sex Offender Law Report.