Many studies have indicated that a school-based sexual health education program can reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A recent study published in Prevention Science showed comprehensive sex education can decrease homophobia and transphobia.
Young LGBTQ students encounter homophobic and transphobic language at school and experience victimization and discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. LGBTQ students can experience negative academic consequences (e.g., absenteeism, poor academic performance, disconnection from school communities, etc.) and mental health consequences such as depression and anxiety.
Schools play a critical role in supporting LGBTQ students by enforcing anti-bullying policies and offering inclusive curricula. Previous research studies have found that LGBTQ students who received inclusive sexual health education experienced lower levels of victimization, increased feelings of safety at school, better academic performance, and increased feelings of connection to peers.
The randomized controlled trial of an inclusive sex education program (High School FLASH) in 20 schools in two U.S. regions (Midwest and South). FLASH lessons normalize a wide range of identities, portraying LGBTQ young people in healthy relationships and providing visibility of various sexual orientations and genders in diverse contexts. These genders include sexually active, abstinent, partnered, or single individuals. The criteria also promote the use of inclusive language. For example, neutral language such as “partner” can make a single sentence or concept relevant to a large group.
The FLASH program has benefits for all students. A reduction in homophobic and transphobic beliefs among LGBTQ students indicates improved mental health associated with decreased internalized homophobia and transphobia.
The reduction in homophobic and transphobic beliefs among straight and cisgender students demonstrates an improvement in how one perceives LGBTQ peers, which may reduce harassment of LGBTQ students and an overall improved school climate.
Sources: Eureka News Alert, Prevention Science
