Tag: relationships

Where Does Sexual Education Need to Catch Up?

It seems as though everyone vividly remembers how they were taught sexual education in high school. While a few may have had positive learning experiences, it seems the majority had ones that were very short-sighted in being useful. High school classrooms are always awkward for bringing up sensitive subjects, but sexual education should be one area that is thoroughly explained and taught with care. Unfortunately, sexual education and anatomy is something most public schools fail at teaching, and here’s why.

Homosexuality is Never Mentioned

In a study researching the experiences young people had in sex education, many had classes that were very science-based and technical, focusing on only relations between men and women. This leaves lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered students completely out of the picture, making the material much less relevant or useful. With rising numbers of LGBT youth in America, it doesn’t make sense to exclude them from this important conversation.

Some Sexual Activities Are Not Covered

Only sexual intercourse between a male and female is ever mentioned in most high schools, and no other sexual activities are recognized in classes, some of which could even be considered “safe sex”. While a high school course shouldn’t have to cover everything, such a limited view of sex is hurting students, and making the information outdated.

Only Abstinence is Discussed as a Contraceptive

Some schools go as far as teaching abstinence as the only ‘safe’ option, failing to educate about any contraceptives at all. Not only is this teaching method proven to be ineffective, but unexpected pregnancies that occur without the right education can be far more dangerous to teens. Not only that, but many schools don’t even consider discussing unplanned pregnancies with their students, so these women aren’t taught about safe options to take in these situations, such as adoption or the few abortion centers that help young mothers with child care and family planning rather than just kill the fetus.

Desire, Pleasure, and Consent are not Mentioned

For many schools, consent in never brought up or explained adequately. Everyone sticks to the physical mechanics of sex, while emotional aspects are always left out. In a similar vein, female sexual desire is sometimes not even acknowledged. One teen girl in a 2009 U.S. study said, “I think that they depict it was the guy wants to have sex and the girl doesn’t… They don’t realize that a lot of girls want to have sex, too. And so I don’t think that they focus on that enough at all.” Most sexual education makes it seem like only men have sexual pleasure, making for a very skewed depiction of straight sexual relationships.

Schools today are falling short on the information they teach in their sexual education classes. Whatever you may have been taught could be better or worse, but it’s definitely a subject worth discussing and changing for future generations.

How to Compromise with Your Future College Roommates

Getting ready for college is one of the most exciting times in a young person’s life. As you move out of your parent’s home and settle into your own place, you need to remember the importance of getting along with your new roommate. Sometimes people starting college have the luxury of sharing a dorm, apartment or house with someone they know, but more often you end up paired with strangers. Sometimes, these strangers might become good friends, but that will only happen if you know how to compromise. Sharing a living space with anyone can be challenging, but it’s important you make the most of your experience.

Finances

Sharing the financial responsibilities with your roommates is key to having a successful experience in your new adventure. It is best to decide who is responsible for what bills upfront to make sure there is clarity and bills do not go unpaid. You also want to make sure that everyone feels they were treated fairly. Rent and utilities are easy enough to split up.

When unexpected bills pop up, such as damage that occurred during a party, you may have to compromise with your roomie on who should incur the expense. Just be fair, and everything should work out. If you are proactive, you can avoid some of those surprise bills. For example, changing the filters out on a furnace and air conditioning maintenance can prevent significant costs from popping up that you were not expecting. Just communicate with each other ahead of time on what areas in which you want to be proactive.

Noise and Space

If you ever shared a room with a sibling growing up, you may understand the importance of compromise already. If you are a night owl and your roommate likes to go to bed early, you need to agree on a solution that is fair to both sides. You might have to compromise on having friends over late on a school night, or what door you come in through when you get home from that late night party. There is usually limited space in your first college housing unit, so compromising on who gets what space will also likely come up.

Compromise is all about give-and-take and shouldn’t be viewed as sacrificing. You can work out a solution that suits both sides; it just might take a little work. Communication can solve any problem, so be open-minded and solution-oriented, and all will be well!

Resources
https://hellobeautiful.com/2792284/roommate-problems-compromise-living-situation/
http://www.provincialheating.ca/
http://blog.credit.com/2017/06/tips-for-splitting-bills-with-roommates-175596/
https://www.usnews.com/education/articles/2010/08/13/5-tips-to-getting-along-with-your-roommate

How to Be Safe and Healthy as a Sexually Active Teen

If you’re a teenager and have decided to enter into a sexual relationship, you have to make sure you and your partner are safe. The consequences of unprotected sex are lifelong and can be devastating. There are several steps you can take to prevent unwanted pregnancies, STDs, and other incidences. Keep reading for some important information on how to say as safe as possible as a sexually active teen.

You Can Say No

One of the most important things to remember is never to let someone force you to do anything you don’t want to. All sexual acts should be consensual. If your partner is pressuring or forcing you to do anything against your will, remember you have the right to say no. Talk things out, and see if you can’t reach a compromise. If something makes you feel uncomfortable, speak up. It might be the only way they’ll know.

Be Honest

Talk to your partner before you engage in any sexual activity. Ask them if they have ever had unprotected sex, or if they have any sexually transmitted diseases you should know about. Be open and honest. Even if one of you has an STD, there are steps you can take to prevent it from spreading.

Know the Risks

First, you both need to understand that there is no method of protection that is 100% effective. You still take on the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases no matter which method of protection you choose. If you are not willing to talk about this with your partner, it is an indication that you may not be ready for a sexual relationship.

Using Birth Control

If you do decide to become sexually active, females may want to consider using oral contraceptives. They are highly effective against pregnancy when used correctly, and can be obtained from a doctor or clinic. Even with oral contraceptives, the male partner should always use a condom to prevent the spread of disease. Make sure both partners know how to use a condom properly. Incorrect use can cause the condom to fail. A counselor can explain proper use. You can also visit an STD testing service for information on how to use condoms effectively.

Plan B

In the event that your birth control fails, you can get emergency contraceptives without a prescription and also without parental consent. These also must be taken properly and within 72 hours of sexual activity to be effective.

Don’t be afraid to talk to a doctor, school counselor, or any other trusted adult for advice prior to becoming sexually active. You can enjoy safe sex as a teen if you know the proper precautions to take. Be responsible, and use the proper resources at your disposal to stay safe and healthy.