Enhancing Children’s Wellbeing: The Role of Sex and Relationships Education—A Case Study from Greece

Abstract

For years, sex education was separate from schooling in Greece. Meanwhile, sexual health indicators, the number of sexual abuse cases, and child prostitution are troubling. Comprehensive sex education school program is one way to improve sexual health and promote wellbeing. Following the latest educational reform (2001), sex education found a place in the primary school, as part of the extra curriculum Health Education activities. These programs, however, are highly ignored by teachers, although teachers in general subscribe on the importance of sex education. Understanding this “paradox” provides ways to challenge teachers’ current attitudes. A fuller implementation of such programs might prove the key for enhancing healthier, fuller life, and wellbeing.