Applying Emotional Literacy in Comprehensive Sex Education for Young People

Abstract

Contemporary sex education requires a critical approach that entails a greater understanding of sexuality, relationships, and social skills. Applying emotional literacy practices in comprehensive sex education would improve its quality and comprehensive nature. Articles that informed (1) current practices of sex education (2) fundamental problems associated with sex education; (3) emotional literacy and its relevance in sex education, and (4) implementing emotional literacy in sex education were selected. PubMed and Google Scholar were the databases used to select literature using the search terms “emotional literacy,” “social emotional learning,” “sex education,” “comprehensive sex education,” “adolescence,” and “youth.” The content, time invested and teaching skills in most sex education lessons are inadequate to meet the needs faced by our youth today. Conventional patterns of sex education risks repetitive educational outcomes. Without a framework to develop emotional competencies, comprehensive sex education may not fulfill the effects intended by international guidelines. Inadequate levels of social-emotional functioning are detrimental to sexual health, and central to other public health problems such as violence and substance abuse. Applying emotional literacy in comprehensive sex education would empower young people to regulate behavior and feelings in relation to sexuality and relationships while building mental resilience, self-esteem, empathy and responsible decision-making.