Re-Visioning Sexuality Education

Abstract

Abstract In view of the present state of affairs in the field, it is time for reassessment and professional debate about what sexuality education can and should be. There have been significant cultural shifts brought about by recent technological development, global awareness of sexual issues, and the characteristics of the current younger generation. Sexuality educators must adapt to these changes in order to remain relevant, and several key issues are listed for consideration. National debate must proceed concerning the place of scientific facts, political beliefs, religious faith, and the plurality of values regarding sexual orientations, behaviors, and interests in sexuality education contexts. Presently there is no set of agreed-upon standards or philosophies to guide our decisions that all sexuality educators seem able to embrace. We must decide if we can find common ground for differing perspectives on sexuality education, or if we should instead clarify different types of approaches, the goals of which would be clearly described for students and other constituencies.