Many people oppose sexuality education for young people in the belief that it encourages sexual behavior and therefore leads to increased incidences of sexual violence. They argue that the only way to reduce these unwanted outcomes is to stop young people from having sex. Harassment, coercion, and assault based on one's gender or sexual orientation take a serious emotional and physical toll on students. Their needs are relevant to campus life whether or not they are having sex now. Sexual violence education must be sex-positive Sexual violence education must acknowledge diverse viewpoints and needs based on factors such as sexual orientation, gender identity, race and ethnicity, religious or spiritual viewpoints.
Peers play a critical role in transmitting and reinforcing beliefs and information about sexuality.
In a college environment, peer influence is likely to exceed the influence of parents, faculty, and college staff. Sexual decision-making is part of this struggle. Most members of this population are making their sexual decisions in an environment perceived as freer than their home environment. Students may find this freedom empowering, others may find it overwhelming. Experimentation with sexual behaviors and sexual partners is more frequent and more visible in this environment than in most others which students have experienced.