In a pluralistic society like the United States, people should respect and accept the diversity of values and beliefs about sexuality that exist in a community. Sexual relationships should never be coercive or exploitative. All children should be loved and cared for. All sexual decisions have effects or consequences. All persons have the right and the obligation to make responsible sexual choices.
Young people explore their sexuality as a natural process of achieving sexual maturity.
Premature involvement in sexual behaviors poses risks. Abstaining from sexual intercourse is the most effective method of preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Young people who are involved in sexual relationships need access to information about health care services. Schools can give young people the facts and the relationship skills they need to become responsible adults, and can break the cycle of ignorance, denial, and shame that often passes from one generation to the next. Most parents say they want their children to receive sexuality education in school.