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Position Paper

Uploaded by

josephgalospanis
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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MY POSITION

PAPER

Submitted to: Mrs. Madelyn B. Asis


Submitted by: Joseph Jed G. Panis
Position Paper on Legalizing Comprehensive Sex Education

Introduction

Sex education is a comprehensive approach to teaching young people about sexuality,


relationships, and reproductive health which it covers anatomy, puberty development,
relationships communication and pregnancy and child birth.
The debate over sex education in schools has been a contentious issue for decades. While
some advocate for abstinence-only education, a growing body of research supports the
legalization and implementation of comprehensive sex education (CSE). This approach equips
students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about their sexual
health, ultimately promoting safer practices, reducing unwanted pregnancies, and combating
sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
This position paper shows that the legalization may be more effective to prevent teenage
pregnancies or unwanted pregnancies and be more knowledgeable on what is sex education.
Given the significant impact of sexual health education on public health outcomes, it is crucial to
advocate for comprehensive programs in educational settings.

Counter Argument

Opponents of comprehensive sex education often argue that it promotes sexual activity
among teenagers. They claim that by providing detailed information about sexual health, schools
may inadvertently encourage students to engage in sexual behaviors at a younger age.
For example, the Heritage Foundation has published reports suggesting that exposure to
sex education can lead to increased sexual activity among adolescents (Heritage Foundation,
2017). Additionally, some argue that parents should have the primary role in educating their
children about sex, asserting that schools should not intervene in such personal matters. This
perspective is rooted in the belief that family values and cultural norms should guide sexual
education, not public policy.
Argument

However, extensive research indicates that comprehensive sex education does not lead to
increased sexual activity among adolescents; rather, it helps delay the initiation of sexual
intercourse and encourages safer practices among those who are sexually active. A systematic
review published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that students who received
comprehensive sex education were significantly more likely to use condoms and other forms of
contraception (Kohler et al., 2008). Furthermore, a meta-analysis by the Cochrane Library also
concluded that comprehensive programs significantly reduce the rates of teenage pregnancies
and STIs (Agarwal et al., 2020).

Comprehensive sex education addresses not only the biological aspects of human
sexuality but also the emotional and social dimensions, fostering healthier relationships and
informed decision-making. The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy
reports that CSE can lead to a reduction in instances of sexual violence by promoting
understanding of consent and respect in relationships (National Campaign, 2013). Studies have
shown that programs incorporating discussions about consent lead to improved attitudes toward
healthy relationships, as highlighted in a review by The Lancet (2016), which emphasized the
importance of addressing social norms surrounding consent.

Lastly, the argument for parental rights must be balanced with the need for public health.
Many parents may not feel comfortable discussing sexual health topics, or they may lack
accurate information themselves. A report from the Guttmacher Institute highlights that while
most parents support sex education, many lack the knowledge to effectively communicate about
sexual health, underscoring the importance of school-based education (Guttmacher Institute,
2016). Additionally, a survey conducted by the American Association of University Women
found that a significant percentage of parents believe schools should provide comprehensive sex
education to ensure all students receive accurate information (AAUW, 2020). This demonstrates
a societal recognition of the need for institutional support in sexual education.

Conclusion

In conclusion, legalizing comprehensive sex education in schools is essential for


promoting the health and well-being of adolescents. By providing accurate information and
fostering critical thinking about sexual health, CSE empowers young people to make informed
choices. The benefits—lower rates of unintended pregnancies, reduced STIs, and improved
understanding of consent—far outweigh the concerns raised by opponents. Comprehensive sex
education not only equips students with knowledge but also promotes a culture of respect and
healthy relationships. It is imperative that policymakers prioritize the health education of future
generations by implementing comprehensive sex education as a vital component of the school
curriculum.

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