why
is this
​
IMPORTANT?
MATTERS.
INCLUSION
Many sex education programs today do not devote time to providing information tailored to LGBT+ students. This generates stigma and feelings of exclusion and insecurity that can have damaging long-term effects. Studies have demonstrated that LGBT+ youths are at higher risks for engaging in risky sexual behaviors such as using drugs and alcohol to facilitate sex, having sex prior to age 13, and engaging in unprotected or coerced sex (Kann, 2011). Not only that, they are also at higher risk of suicide and depression (Lock & Steiner, 1999).
ENOUGh.
THE INTERNET ISN'T
There has been a decline in comprehensive sex education in schools and the internet hasn't been enough to fill the gap. Even though teens are on the internet every day, few think of it as a resource for information about sex. Teens are understandably wary of information they find on the internet, but they are more likely to turn to family and friends - individuals who are not necessarily any more reliable. Since teens are not actively searching online for this information, we can hopefully fill the knowledge gap some other way (Jones, 2006).