1 of 88

Write now Article Tools

During the past few decades there has been a continuing debate about whether the increase in sex education in schools encourages teenagers to experiment with sexual activities. Proponents argue that it will make teenagers more responsible while the view of the opponents is that it provides them with too much information at an age where they cannot be expected to control their emotions about such a subject that forms an integral part of their formative years.

In response to those who are opposed to sex education in schools because they believe that it encourages teens to have sex it has to be said that with or without education about sexual activities, teenagers are going through a phase where physically and emotionally they will be changing. At this stage of their lives they are becoming aware of their sexuality and the emotional impact that being physically close to another teenager will have. They will begin to have the desire to sexually explore not only their own bodies but also those of others, particularly the opposite sex. There will be a mystery about the subject that will encourage them to experiment when the opportunity arises.

Without sex education in schools, which still to many of the older generation can be considered a taboo subject, how will these teenagers learn about the emotional and physical impact that sexual relationships might have upon them? The answer is that they will learn from their peers. Often, this process of learning leads to the sexual activity being carried out before the teenagers are ready to deal with the emotional aspect. They will experiment because they do not want to be considered by their peers to be weak in this respect or, alternatively, to see to gain some sort of standing within their peer group.

The problem is that sexual activity between teens without knowledge and education can lead to a number of difficulties. These might include the physical issues of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases, which can occur as a result of unprotected sex. Furthermore, another issue that might arise is the difficulty of being able to deal with the emotional reaction to sexual activity as a teenager.

There are many advantages of sex education being permitted for teenagers in schools. Not least of these is the opportunity to provide children of these ages with the knowledge that they will require to ensure that when they are tempted to engage in sexual activities they will understand the need to practice safe sex. Education helps the teenager to avoid the health and unwanted pregnancy situations, either of which might have an adverse effect upon their future lives and careers. Furthermore, sex education, taught in the correct manner, will also help the teenager to be better prepared to deal with the emotional consequences of sexual activity.

In conclusion therefore, rather than being seen as an encouragement to teenagers, sex education in schools is better viewed as the key to helping teenagers take a more responsible and informed attitude to a physical activity that they will naturally be intrigued by and wish to experiment with during their teen years.

Learn more about this author, Paul Lines.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Does sex education in schools encourage teens to have sex??
We want to hear your view. Write now!