Changing Emphases in Sexuality Education in U.S. Public Secondary Schools, 1988-1999

摘要: CONTEXT Since the late 1980s, both political context surrounding sexuality education and actual teaching approaches have changed considerably. However, little current national information has been available on content of to allow in-depth understanding breadth these changes their impact teaching. METHODS In 1999, a nationally representative survey collected data from 3,754 teachers in grades 7-12 five specialties most often responsible for education. Results those subset 1,767 who actually taught are compared with findings comparable conducted 1988. RESULTS 93% all respondents reported that was school at some point 7-12; covered broad number topics, including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), abstinence, birth control, abortion sexual orientation. Some topics--how HIV is transmitted, STDs, how resist peer pressure intercourse correct way use condom--were lowergrades 1999 than 23% secondary abstinence as only preventing pregnancy 2% did so Teachers surveyed were more likely 1988 cite important message they wished convey (41% vs. 25%). addition, steep declines occurred between overall across grade levels, percentage supported about orientation, well covering topics. 39% presented option also told students control condom can be effective. CONCLUSIONS Sexuality public schools increasingly focused less present comprehensive includes necessary topics such Because this, spite instruction covers condoms effective methods prevention, many not receiving accurate feel need.