Why Sex Education in Schools? - A history (Part 1)

Sex education today consists of a wide array of topics in different schools. However, sex education wasn't always taught in schools. Here's a history
Photo from Telegraph.co.uk

Early 1900s
Sex education in schools first started in the early 1900s. Girls were taught topics such as 'self-reverence, self-control and true modesty'. Boys were taught topics such as 'temptation of factor and workshop life'.

2nd World War
During the 2nd World War, sexually transmitted diseases were increasing amongst the soldiers. As a response, sex education in school shifted towards the prevention of syphilis and gonorrhoea.

1950s
In the 1950s, sex education in school included lessons on sexual reproduction in plants and animals though biology classes. However as back then biology was though to be a subject more for girls than boys, girls were more likely to receive sex education in school. In some boarding schools, boys recieved warnings about the dangers believed to arise from masturbation.

1960-70s
In the 1960 - 70s there were very significant social changes. There was a sense of revolt against conservertism. Freedom, including sexual freedom, was promoted. There was a wider acceptance of drug use. Sex education in school started changing. Biology textbooks provided more comprehensive information about human reproduction and contraception. Education was targeted to decrease the ignorant, guilt, embarrassment and anxiety around sex. There were also classes to discuss about relationships outside biology class.

1980s
In the 1980s, sex education in schools continue to morph. With a gradual acceptance of feminist thinking, sex education started to encourage students to challenge roles played by men and women in society. Sex education also started promoting female contraception. Furthermore sex education also encouraged students to make informed decisions about sex.

The 1980s also saw the start of the AIDS epidemic. Sex education even more widespread to prevent the deadly disease.

1990s onwards
Sex education changes continued on largely depending on culture and politics. Groups started promoting very different values. Gay and lesbian groups promoting sexual fluidity and equality; and prevention of bullying same-sex attracted or transgender students. There were also groups promoting abstinence and heavy petting. There were also groups which promote the use of contraception and family planning. There are also groups which promote not using contraception.

Sex education today has become very varied from school to school. But should sex education be the responsibility of schools? What is you don't agree with what your school teaches your child during sex education classes? Let's continue the discussion in my next post.

Related Posts
Why Sex Education in School? - A bad idea? (Part 2)

References
The Open University, A brief history of sex education

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