Topic 14 Sexuality Education

Why discuss sex education with teenagers?

Teenagers are going through many changes physically and mentally, and they usually have questions about these changes. Sexuality education provides a chance to answer these questions and alleviate adolescents' troubles. In addition, teenagers often find it difficult to talk about sexual issues and often turn to the mass media for answers. However, the information from these channels may be inaccurate. Sexuality education can teach young people about the concepts of sexual behaviour and sexually transmitted diseases, answer students' questions about sex, and help them establish correct concepts and values. Teenagers need to learn to assess risks, understand the risks associated with sexual relationships and adopt a cautious attitude toward sexual behaviour. Communication skills are also crucial for teenagers to maintain good relationships between the sexes. These skills allow students to assertively express their thoughts, defend their bottom lines and avoid dangerous situations.

Main Concepts

Let teenagers understand boys' and girls' physical and psychological changes during adolescence and realise that most changes are expected and normal.
Teachers should educate teenagers about appropriate sexual knowledge. Students may learn the different stages of a romantic relationship and explore how they may get along with their partners (perhaps in the future) by following culturally accepted dating etiquette. Teachers can also discuss with students the meaning of love and correct misconceptions about love.
By analysing the negative impact of pornographic images and information on young people, students' information literacy can be improved, and they can also learn how to handle sexual impulses appropriately.
Let teenagers discuss associated issues, such as contraception, sexual behaviour, unmarried pregnancy and marriage.
Equip teenagers with the ability to say no to sexual assault and dating violence, avoid indecent and obscene words and behaviours, and discuss other risks associated with dating and sex (cyber traps, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.).

Keywords

#Secondary Sexual Characteristics #Sexual Needs #Sexual Partner #Love

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