Understanding students and parents perspectives on the inclusion of sex education in the senior high

school curriculum

Chapter l

Introduction

Sex education plays a crucial role in equipping young individuals with comprehensive knowledge and
understanding of their sexual health, relationships, and reproductive rights. Including sex education in
the senior high school curriculum has been a topic of significant debate, with varying perspectives and
concerns from students, parents, educators, policymakers, and society as a whole. This study aims to
understand the perspectives of students and parents on the inclusion of sex education in the senior high
school curriculum.

Historical Context and Legal Bases

Sex education in the Philippines has evolved over time, influenced by societal changes and shifts in
educational policies. Prior to the 1990s, discussions about sex education were considered taboo, and the
topic was often excluded from school curricula (Flores, 2015). However, recognizing the importance of
addressing sexual and reproductive health needs, there have been significant efforts to introduce
comprehensive sex education in recent years.

Internationally, the provision of comprehensive sex education is recognized as a crucial aspect of

promoting sexual and reproductive health among young individuals. Organizations such as the World
Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) advocate for the inclusion of comprehensive sex education
in school curricula, highlighting its contribution to reducing teenage pregnancies, promoting healthy
relationships, and preventing the spread of STIs (WHO, 2010).

In the Philippines, sex education has been increasingly acknowledged as an important component of the
curriculum. However, challenges arise due to cultural and religious factors, influencing the acceptance
and implementation of sex education programs (Dalisay, 2017). Balancing diverse perspectives and
sensitivities is essential in order to develop a comprehensive curriculum that addresses the needs and
concerns of students and parents in the Filipino context.

Statistics and Parental Involvement

To understand the perspectives of students and parents, it is important to consider statistical data and
the level of parental involvement in sex education. According to a survey conducted by the Philippine
Statistical Research and Training Institute (PSRTI) (2017), 67% of Filipino youth aged 15-24 years old have
engaged in sexual activity. This highlights the urgent need for education that provides accurate
information and guidance.

Furthermore, parent-child communication about sexual health topics remains relatively low in the
Philippines. The 2017 National Survey on Adolescent Health revealed that only 32% of Filipino youth
discussed sexual health matters with their parents (Philippine Statistics Authority, 2017). This lack of
communication underscores the importance of comprehensive sex education in schools as a means of
providing accurate information and support.

The Importance of sex education lies in its potential to equip students with accurate and age-appropriate
information about sexual and reproductive health, consent, contraception, sexually transmitted
infections (STIs), and healthy relationships. This knowledge can empower young individuals to make
informed decisions, develop responsible attitudes, and engage in healthy behaviors related to their
sexual well-being.

This study is essential in understanding the perspectives of students and parents on the inclusion of sex
education in the senior high school curriculum in the Philippines. By exploring the range of viewpoints
and concerns, policymakers and educators can develop informed strategies to ensure that sex education
programs are comprehensive, age-appropriate, culturally sensitive, and aligned with legal bases and
international standards.

The findings of this study will contribute to the ongoing discourse on sex education in the Philippines and
provide insights into the specific needs and expectations of students and parents in the local context. It
will aid in formulating evidence-based policies and curricula that promote healthy sexual behaviors,
informed decision-making, and respect for diverse cultural norms.

However, the inclusion of sex education is not without controversy. Some parents and conservative
groups express concerns over sensitive topics being discussed in the classroom, fearing that it may lead
to early sexual experimentation or the erosion of traditional values. They argue that these discussions
should predominantly occur within the confines of the family unit or religious institutions.

On the other hand, proponents of comprehensive sex education argue that the absence of accurate and
comprehensive information may put young individuals at risk of unplanned pregnancies, unhealthy
relationships, and the spread of STIs. They emphasize that education should be tailored to age-
appropriate levels and delivered in a manner that respects individual cultural and religious beliefs.
To address these divergent perspectives and inform policymaking, it is essential to understand the
viewpoints of both students and parents regarding the inclusion of sex education in the senior high
school curriculum. A comprehensive study considering the various perspectives across different socio-
economic backgrounds, geographic regions, and cultural contexts can provide valuable insights into the
needs, concerns, and expectations of stakeholders.

Such a study aims to bridge the gap between different viewpoints, inform curriculum development, and
ensure that sex education programs align with the needs of students and the expectations of parents. By
understanding the perspectives of students and parents, policymakers and educators can design and
implement inclusive and effective sex education programs that promote healthy sexual behaviors,
informed decision-making, and respect for diverse cultural norms.

In conclusion, conducting a study to understand the perspectives of students and parents on the
inclusion of sex education in the senior high school curriculum is crucial in shaping comprehensive and
evidence-based education policies. By considering the concerns, expectations, and beliefs of
stakeholders, educational institutions can strive to provide an inclusive and effective sex education
curriculum that addresses the needs of young individuals while respecting the values and cultural
diversity within society.

Understanding the perspectives of students and parents is crucial for the inclusion of sex education in
the senior high school curriculum. This study, conducted in the context of the Philippines, explores
historical, legal, and statistical aspects to highlight the importance of comprehensive sex education. By
addressing the concerns and needs of students and parents, policymakers and educators can develop
inclusive and effective sex education programs that promote the well-being of young individuals and
ensure they receive accurate information to make informed decisions about their sexual health and
relationships.