Sexuality



What every teen must realize is that being secure in your own skin, being comfortable in one’s own sexuality, is a great step towards a fuller and healthier life.

The Sex Ed. Debate
For years, adults have had plenty of debate over when and what teens should learn about sex. Rarely do they ask teens their opinion about what they need to learn. Some adults say that giving young people information about contraception and safer sex encourages them to have sex or gives them permission to have sex. But research doesn't back this up. Studies show that comprehensive sexuality education does not encourage teens to become sexually active. In fact, it's just the opposite.

Where do you stand on the debate?
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The Birds and The Bees : Who Should Teach What: Schools or Parents?
Parents continue to underestimate the influence they have over their children's decisions about sex, according to new survey data released by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy. While the majority of teens say parents most influence their sexual decisions, parents believe that teens' friends are most influential. How comfortable are you with talking about sex with your parents, or would you prefer to have "the talk" with someone else? [|Join the discussion]

New sex ed funding ends decade of abstinence-only
This story

For the first time in more than a decade, the federal government is funding sex education programs that aren't based solely on abstinence. But they're not just about handing out condoms, either. Beginning this school year, a five-year, $375 million grant is being divided among 28 programs that have been proven to lower the pregnancy rate among participants, no matter their focus. Many programs distribute condoms, but about half also aim to boost teens' academics, get them involved in extracurricular activities and even improve their parents' job status.

But will this "above the waist" approach give kids the tools to help them succeed in school and make better life decisions, especially about sex?
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LGBTQ Issues
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning teens, (LGBTQ), begin to question their sexuality in their teen years. Whether you are gay, questioning your feelings, or know someone who is - check out our discussions for LGBTQ issues.



Sexual Harassment at School
Sexual harassment is a serious problem for students at all educational levels. Students in elementary and secondary schools, as well as vocational schools, apprenticeship programs, colleges and universities can be victims of sexual harassment. This problem is more common than you might think because many students are scared or too embarrassed to report sexual harassment. It is different from flirting, playing around, or other types of behavior that you enjoy or welcome. Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior that make you feel uncomfortable, scared or confused and that interferes with your schoolwork or your ability to participate in extracurricular activities or attend classes.

Have you been harassed at school?
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