"All these contraceptives, videos and that…": Young people talking about school sex education

Examined the sexual behavior of 50 young men and 50 young women (aged 16–23 yrs) concerning school sex education (SE). In this 1989–1990 survey, about one-fifth of the Ss made favorable comments, others totally denigrated their school's efforts, and many pointed to specific deficits. The type of deficit reported was related to gender: women criticized a biological emphasis on facts without adequate explanation or discussion, and men found the factual information lacking, particularly about contraception. Many Ss felt the timing of SE was late, and SE disrupted the classes. More men participated in the disruptive behaviors during SE classes. Teachers involved in SE were criticized by Ss regarding their ability to handle SE.