Sexuality education is often presented through lecture, handouts, reading, and guest speakers. Although these teaching methods are important tools, they do not allow for student input or dialogue. Facilitating a dialogue with youth gives them the opportunity to express their views and beliefs about their own sexuality. It also provides the educator with pertinent information about the students' culture, behavior, and values around sexuality. These concepts are defined below, and suggestions for creating positive dialogue are provided.
Sexuality begins at birth and ends at death.
Sexuality is complex and encompasses emotional, physical and social factors. It includes one's gender, gender identity, body image, sexual orientation, sexual behavior, relationships, intimacy, and sexual health. People learn about sexuality from a wide variety of sources including family, friends, the media, religion, and school. By working from these assumptions and the following skills, the educator will be able to present sexuality education to youth in a way that is respectful and affirms the positive aspects of sexuality. We base gender roles on life experience, culture, and ethnicity.