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Lecture Notes

Sexuality education is a lifelong process. From the time that we are born, we learn about love, touch, affection, and our bodies. As we grow, the messages continue from both our families and the social environment. School-based programs complement and augment these primary sources of information.

 

The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) developed the Guidelines for Comprehensive Sexuality Education (SIECUS, 2004), the first national model for comprehensive sexuality education. The guidelines are the most widely recognized and implemented framework for comprehensive sexuality education in the United States and several countries worldwide. The guidelines address four developmental levels: early childhood, pre-adolescence, early adolescence, and adolescence<br />

The guidelines also address six main topics:

human development

relationships

personal skills

sexual behavior

sexual health

society and culture

 

Although much more research needs to be done on sexuality education and its impact on young people, most professionals agree that it is one of the most important preventive means we have. Young people, guided by their parents and armed with knowledge and self-confidence, can make informed decisions and direct their own sexual destinies.