In the previous pages we have reviewed four of the general belief systems that many people have about sexuality education and its place in society. Take an opportunity to read the descriptions below again and answer a few questions about your own viewpoint.

Belief Systems

Sex education is bad and sinful and should never be taught at home, in a religious setting, or at school

Teaching sex education in schools undermines the authority of parents and religious leaders. Sex education belongs at home and in a place of worship, not in schools

Sex education is necessary at home and places of worship, and should be taught in schools, but it should be modified in content, tone, message, and audience to avoid encouraging promiscuity and giving teens the wrong idea about sex

Sex education should be discussed at home and in places of worship and is also a necessary and essential component of a quality public school education. It should be mandatory for all young people in grades K-12

What do you think?

Having read the descriptions of the most common belief systems about sexuality education, which one most closely resembles your belief system about sex education?

Where does your belief system come from? Check off all that apply to you

If everyone believed in the first belief system listed below, what would be the likely outcomes, in your opinion?

"Sex education is bad and sinful and should never be taught at home, in a religious setting, or at school."

If everyone believed in the second belief system listed below, what would be the likely outcomes, in your opinion?

"Teaching sex education in schools undermines the authority of parents and religious leaders. Sex education belongs at home and in a place of worship, not in schools."

If everyone believed in the third belief system listed below, what would be the likely outcomes, in your opinion?

"Sex education is necessary at home and places of worship, and should be taught in schools, but it should be modified in content, tone, message, and audience to avoid encouraging promiscuity and giving teens the wrong idea about sex."

If everyone believed in the fourth belief system listed below, what would be the likely outcomes, in your opinion?

"Sex education should be discussed at home and in places of worship, and is also a necessary and essential component of a quality public school education. It should be mandatory for all young people in grades K-12."

Thinking about the belief systems we just discussed and your answers to the questions above, do you think one is better or worse than another? More preferable or less preferable than another? Why?

Based on your answers to the belief system questions listed above, which sexuality education curriculum do you most approve of and why?

Abstinence-Only-Until-Marriage Education
Abstinence-Only Education
Comprehensive Sexuality Education