Last week, I read an eye-opening article in the LA Times about sex education. It immediately reminded me of Dr. Corry and the straightforward drawings of anatomy on my primary school blackboard in the Netherlands—a small country leading the way. Living here for six years with teenage sons, I've reflected on how we approach these talks at home. One story stands out: a young man, over 18, mimicked violent internet porn during his first sexual experience, shocking his partner who expected mutual respect. This highlights the risks when educators fail to openly discuss consent, pleasure, and healthy intimacy with teens.
Joyce recently shared how her son is starting to learn about sex with some natural awkwardness, but discussions are underway— a far cry from typical U.S. experiences.
In the U.S., sex education remains taboo, often met with avoidance or awkward giggles. This conservative stance contributes to the highest teen pregnancy rates in the Western world.
The LA Times article urges America to follow the Dutch example, where teen pregnancies are eight times lower and abortions nearly twice as low. While demographics like poverty and conservatism play a role, the differences are stark.
For instance, American girls are more sexually active, have more partners, enjoy sex less, and use fewer contraceptives than Dutch peers.
What sets Dutch sex education apart? Openness. Teachers, doctors, and parents discuss sex freely, without taboos. Unlike U.S. parents who focus on risks or jokes, Dutch families cover pleasure, responsibilities, intimacy, masturbation, porn, orgasms, and consent. Questions like 'How far have you gone?' or 'Did you enjoy it?' are normalized.
Dutch teens also enjoy more freedom on topics like alcohol and drugs. Rather than strict rules and fear, parents foster responsibility through open dialogue and boundary exploration.
The Netherlands truly exemplifies effective, comprehensive sex education.
