What is sexuality education?

Sexuality education is defined as the life-long process of acquiring information and forming attitudes, beliefs and values about feelings, relationships, gender roles, body image, sexual development and reproductive health (Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SEICUS). Comprehensive sexuality education supports children to develop personal and interpersonal skills, to recognise, name and express their feelings appropriately and develop their communication and negotiation skills. Sexuality education can facilitate the capacity of individuals to make informed, safe and healthy decisions in accordance with personal beliefs and values as well as develop respect for the diversity that exists in our community (Blake, 2002).

Research shows that sexuality education has important long term health outcomes for young people as they mature including:

• delayed onset of sexual activity
• a reduction in the number of sexual partners
• increased likelihood of adopting safer sex practices to protect themselves and their partner once sexually active (Baldo et al 1993; Gourley, 1996; Grunseit & Kippax, 1997).

Sexuality education may also help reduce children’s vulnerability to sexual abuse by developing their understanding of public and private body parts, behaviours and places, rules about touch and giving them the language and skills to ask for help (O’Connor, 1991).

Sexuality Education Sexual Health and Family Planning Australia (Inc) Position Statement

Values and Sexuality Education

Sexuality Education and Queensland Curriculum

International Guidelines on Sexuality Education: An evidence informed approach to effective sex, relationships and HIV/STI education