Cultural barriers to comprehensive sexuality education in india

Cultural barriers to comprehensive sexuality education in india Rupal Yadav Dr. Somya Yadav The introduction of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), in India is surrounded by controversy due to the fact that sex and sexuality are viewed as being so closely tied to moral beliefs, family honor, marriage and religious identity. The discussions around topics such as pubertal development, sexual health issues, contraceptive options, sexual consent, gender identity and sexual orientation are typically taboo subjects within both families and schools. Many Indian parents, educators and policy makers fear that if they provide their children with sexuality education, it will encourage them to have premarital sex and/or challenge traditional values. Further restricting the opportunity for successful implementation of CSE are patriarchal gender roles emphasizing female chastity, promotion of abstinent-only programs, the assumption of heterosexuality, caste endogamous preferences, educator discomfort and political resistance. As a result, many adolescents are obtaining their information from their friends, internet pornography, social media platforms and other unreliable sources. The lack of credible knowledge regarding adolescent sexual health places these individuals at increased risk for sexual assault, risky behaviors/unsafe sex, unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and cyber exploitation. This article used a qualitative description and analysis research design method to identify the major cultural obstacles which prevent the effective delivery of CSE in India. Based upon this research, the author asserts that using a culturally competent approach to education does not mean avoiding discussions of sexuality but instead involves discussing sex in a way which includes respect for individual dignity, consent, equality, safety and responsibility. Therefore, for CSE to be implemented successfully in India there needs to be trained educators who can communicate effectively about sexuality education, engaged parents, inclusive curricula which reflect diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, religion and socio-economic status, accessible confidential health services and collaborative working relationships among all involved school districts and community organizations.