Workshop 1: Sexual education in European countries

Workshop 1: Sexual education in European

countries

Chair: Bojana Pinter (Slovenia) & Istvan Batar (Hungary)

Ten topics on sexual education (SE) were discussed:

Mission of SE? To increase Knowledge, Attitudes, Skills and

Practice (KAS, KAP) to improve sexual and reproduc- tive health.
Aims of SE? To prevent unwanted pregnancies, STIs and other

consequences, starting with building self-esteem and increasing

communication.
What kind of SE is present? There are marked differences

among European countries. Educational program ”Nine steps” from Finland

could be interesting also for other countries. Maybe ESC can give support in

dissemination of programs.
Where could SE be performed? There was a strong agreement

that it should start in the family and be supported by school and other

levels.
Knowledge – which topics and when? Topics should be age

specific, aiming to the rights to choose, developing self-respect…

Incorrect messages such as “Oral sex is not sex” should also be

addressed.
How to address attitudes? Emotions should be addressed, also

using well-trained peer groups. Changing attitudes at different levels (personal….

governmental) is needed.
How to improve skills and practice? With positive (give

choices) and interactive (role plays) approach, involving psychologists,

counsellors.
Media influence? Encourage ourselves and others to use the

media in a more positive way.
Networking? It is needed at personal, local, national and

international level.
Obstacles? Conservativism, faith groups, lack of interest in

their children by some parents, culture, media and finance.

Conclusions

The following were suggested: