Americans are being misled on comprehensive sex ed. Here is what it actually does.
- Most parents support sex ed for middle and high school students, but are reticent about young kids.
- Parental fears around comprehensive sex ed are driven by the misbelief that it’s solely about sex.
- Comprehensive sex ed helps reduce violence, promote healthy relationships and prevent abuse.
America is at an inflection point on sex education.
In June, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion, sparking a conversation about which states teach students how to prevent pregnancy (never mind consent, boundaries or bodily autonomy). Opponents of sex ed are ramping up attacks, exploiting parental fears and accusing proponents of pushing education that introduces sexually inappropriate material to young kids too early, grooming them for abuse (studies show comprehensive sex ed reduces child sexual abuse). At the same time, the proliferation of “Don’t Say Gay” bills further complicates sex ed in schools, eliminating the possibility of LGBTQ-inclusive education on topics critical to young people’s health and well-being.