The Conflict Over Sexuality Education: Interviews with Participants on Both Sides of the Debate

Abstract:
This article studies interviews with 22 people involved in sexuality education conflicts from three school districts. Interviewers asked the respondents about the issues and ideologies behind their decisions to participate in the conflict and about their perceptions of sexuality education in relation to contemporary American society. Interviewers found that the advocates for comprehensive sexuality education are concerned that public education, individual freedom, and tolerance for social and sexual difference are under attack by a 'religio-political' movement. Conversely, they found the proponents of abstinence-only education feel parental authority is undermined by comprehensive health education and that open discussion of sexuality leads to greater promiscuity. The author concludes that for the opposing sides, the conflict over sexuality education is a symbol of a larger cultural struggle over divergent visions of morality, family, and gender.

Author(s): NELSON, Kelly

Publication: SIECUS Report (Volume 24, Number 6)


Date Published: 9/1/1996

Pages: 5

Location Code: 8146