Controversy: Sexual Education In Public Schools

Sexual education in public schools has been a subject of much controversy in the United States. This topic has been brought to the attention of parents, teachers and government officials with the hope that agreeable terms are reached. Although, the topic is somewhat sensitive in nature a student will get a better understanding, more intelligent version and latest information if it was taught in a classroom rather than at home or out in the streets. Yes, sexual education should be taught in school where most kids spend most of their time with their peers and also where they learn to socialize with others. A parental view, in this matter, should always be put into perspective and considered upon as boundaries could be crossed and discriminatory

It should bring knowledge of intellectual and scientific value so they feel comfortable with topics such as; the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancies, sexual abuse, sexual crimes, promiscuity and use of condoms as a preventive method. Also to inculcate positive attitudes, values, self-respect and the ability to practice healthy sexual habits and exercise better judgment. As mentioned by Dr. Lindberg in a New York Times article in 2013. Adolescents may receive information about sexual health topics from a range of sources beyond formal instruction. Here we consider the role of parents, health care providers and the media as potential sources of sexual health information for teens. Both the American Medical Association and the American Pediatrics Association recommend that physicians provide confidential time during adolescent primary care visits to discuss sexuality and counsel teens about sexual behavior. Despite these recommendations, many health care providers do not talk with their teen patients about sexual health issues during primary care visits. When these conversations do occur, they are brief; in one study, these conversations lasted an average of 36 seconds. Many teens feel uncomfortable talking with their health care provider about sexual health issues, and many providers also have concerns about discussing

Some state laws leave curriculum decisions to their school districts. In the United States, 13 states require discussion of sexual orientation in sex education. Of those 13 states, 9 require discussion of sexual orientation to be inclusive, while 4 states require only negative information be presented regarding LGBT-related sexual orientation.[91] Arizona provides HIV education with the condition that if and when it is taught, HIV education curriculum cannot promote a "homosexual lifestyle," or "portray homosexuality in a positive manner."[92] Similarly, Oklahoma HIV education teaches, "among other behaviors, that 'homosexual activity' is considered to be 'responsible for contact with the AIDS virus.'"[92] No states currently mandate the discussion of gender identity in the sex education curriculum. Some people might argue that sex education could influence premarital marriage,