Parents urged to educate adolescents about sex

PARENTS ENCOURAGED TO EDUCATE ADOLESCENTS ABOUT SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Senior lecturer and head of the Institute for Gender and Development Studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, Dr Karen Carpenter, is urging parents to take a more active role in educating adolescents about their bodies, sex, and their sexual and reproductive health.

The Importance of Sex Education

Speaking at the recent Pamela McNeil Lecture on adolescent pregnancy, Dr Carpenter emphasized the importance of sex education. She highlighted that while sex is vital for the continuation of the human species, it is equally important to educate young people about the when, how, protections, and safety measures associated with sexual activity.

The lecture, organized by the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation (WCJF), focused on the theme ‘Adolescent Pregnancy – Breaking the Cycle: Protecting our Girls’.

The Role of Parents

Dr Carpenter stressed that parents should make an effort to use language that is appropriate and easily understood when discussing sex and the human body with their children. She also noted that Jamaican parents often struggle to discuss sex due to a lack of vocabulary in their native language.

Research has shown that the emotional and social intelligence gained by adolescents from their parents and families can significantly impact their decisions regarding sexual activity. Dr Carpenter further highlighted the cultural double standard in raising boys and girls, which puts girls at a disadvantage and contributes to instances of adolescent pregnancy.

Breaking Gender Stereotypes

Dr Carpenter pointed out that societal expectations encourage young men to become sexually active early as a way to demonstrate their masculinity. She questioned the notion that not having sex makes someone less of a man. She emphasized the need to challenge the different rules imposed on boys and girls, as it is counterintuitive and does not lead to the desired outcomes.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Promoting comprehensive sex education contributes to the overall well-being of adolescents by equipping them with knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education – Incorporating sex education into school curricula and encouraging parents’ involvement in educating their children about sexual and reproductive health aligns with the goal of providing quality education for all.
3. SDG 5: Gender Equality – Breaking gender stereotypes and promoting equal opportunities for boys and girls in discussions about sex and sexuality contributes to achieving gender equality.
4. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Ensuring that all adolescents have access to comprehensive sex education regardless of their gender or socio-economic background helps reduce inequalities in sexual and reproductive health outcomes.

In conclusion, Dr Karen Carpenter emphasizes the importance of parents taking an active role in educating adolescents about their bodies, sex, and sexual and reproductive health. By breaking gender stereotypes, promoting comprehensive sex education, and involving parents in these discussions, we can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a healthier and more equitable society.

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