Evidence-Based Sexuality Education Programs in Schools: Do They Align with the National Sexuality Education Standards?

Abstract

While many states mandate some type of sexuality education in schools, state legislation varies widely across the United States. Nevertheless, though much has been written about the behavioral outcomes of sexuality education programs shown to be effective at reducing one or more risky sexual behaviors in teenagers, less is known about the exact content taught by these programs, and whether it aligns with national recommendations for sexuality education programming in school. This article reviews the content of evidence-based sexuality education programs in schools (n = 10) from the Office of Adolescent Health (OAH) to assess the extent to which programs are following a comprehensive model of sexual health endorsed by the National Sexuality Education Standards. Results indicate that the majority of programs provide education on sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy, abstinence, and contraceptive use. Far fewer address components related to healthy dating relationships, including interpersonal violence and an understanding of gender roles. No programs address nonheterosexual orientations. Analysis of the programs and implications of the findings are discussed.