Hasty to ditch values-based sex education

The letter, “Young minds and bodies: Is ignorance bliss?” (Aug 13, online), suggests that sex education in Singapore schools should move from being values-based to more facts-based in order to reduce the rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and teenage pregnancies.

However, it is wrong to assume that more knowledge equates to prudence. An individual student, armed with more information via a comprehensive sex education programme, would not automatically make better life choices and enjoy healthier relationships.

The prevalence of STIs, teenage pregnancies, date rape and abortion are symptoms of society’s failure to instil proper values in our children. The proposed solution of throwing facts and figures at them would not change their perspectives or shape their behaviour.

A more holistic methodology is required. Schools should not focus only on the physiology of sex and procreation, but also educate students on the emotional and ethical aspects of sex.

Instead of preaching safe sex to teenagers, we should teach them how important it is to respect members of the opposite sex and treat them with courtesy and kindness.

Instead of listing the different types of contraceptives available, we should also explain to students that the sexual act is an expression of love and commitment that may result in the creation of a child, and it is not just a fun activity that should be engaged in for leisure.

Instead of merely describing the clinical process of abortion, we should engage students on a deeper level and elucidate how the life of every person is intrinsically valuable.

A holistic curriculum is beneficial, as it deals with the root problem of increasingly casual attitudes towards sex. It provides students with a firm foundation to become responsible adults imbued with the maturity to make the right choices and build healthy, happy relationships.

Ultimately, without a more comprehensive study of sex education in Singapore or an in-depth consultation with parents, it would be hasty to jettison the values-based approach.