Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Sex Education: Important and necessary

Out of all the words in the English language, there is one word in particular that consists of multiple definitions, each invoking positive and negative principles: Sex.  The expression is defined as biological characteristic, a pleasurable behavior, or the means of reproduction. Sex is a concept found in many institutions including marriage, politics, schools and religion. Since sex embodies numerous aspects of our everyday experience, sexual education should be deemed important and necessary to build a happy, healthy life.  



Many religions attempt to mask reality and contribute to a growing ignorance. Following individuals are taught to conceal their sexual imagination and abstain from personal exploration. Many Christian individuals for instance believe that communication with children and young adults about sex only encourages the behavior. Although, if we refrain from discussing sex in the home, school, and other social sectors, we are only contributing to the number of young adults who engage in unprotected sex; leading to the increasing cases of sexually transmitted disease and teen pregnancy. Instead of promoting abstinence, we should aim to raise awareness of all sexual facets.The lack of sexual knowledge can lead to unfortunate circumstances. Sex education and personal exploration is important and necessary to foster positive understanding and behavior. For example, students who are encouraged to practice abstinence are more likely to experience unprotected sex. These risky sexual engagements are due to an individual’s lack of knowledge.  Cultures with restricted access to information on birth control and other contraceptives also endure high number of STD and teen pregnancy accounts.Our society should seek to obtain more positive notions of sex and increase sexual knowledge among all individuals. Schools should implement sex education into their health curriculum and should encourage parents to discuss sex with their children at home. Sex education and discussion will enhance our well-being and ultimately lead to an optimistic society.