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August 2008: Dialogue on Sexuality
In many communities, cultures, and households sexuality is a taboo subject, but sexuality is also part of being human. The World Health Organization definition states that it is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, ethical, legal, historical, religious and spiritual factors. In short, it is part of who we are. The Sexuality Issue is an open discussion of a topic intimately linked to our health, happiness, and identities.
Although sexuality has never been directly addressed in Panorama before, it is a topic that is widely discussed on TakingITGlobal. Members can find resources in the Health and Wellness section of our Understanding the Issues, or debate on a wide range of topics with other youth in our Discussion Boards. Some of the topics related to sexuality that have interested TakingITGlobal members include: legalizing abortion, abstinence and HIV, masturbation, HIV/AIDS, sexual education for children, and teen pregnancy.
Sexuality influences, and is influenced by, so many factors. Here are just a few related topics to get you thinking about how sexuality affects many aspects of your life:
Health: The spread of sexually transmitted diseases like HIV and sexually transmitted infections among youth makes our sexuality a key factor in our overall health.
Gender: Discrimination against women and girls happens in nearly every culture in the world, this directly affects attitudes towards women's sexuality as well as their sexual health.
Abuse: Young people are one of the most at risk groups for becoming victims of sexual abuse.
Education: Sexual education for youth is often nonexistent or inadequate, denying young people the knowledge to protect themselves.
Culture: Different cultures have different approaches to sexuality, sex education, gender, etc. In some cultures it is considered appropriate to provide sex education for youth in schools, for others it is a topic reserved for married adults.
Relationships: The attitudes and actions of those close to you: parents, teachers, spouses, partners, etc., all influence your approach to your own sexuality.
Emotion: Emotional health is indivisible from sexual health.
Religion: Religions have certain views on the nature of sexuality and what is or isn't appropriate.
Poverty: Young people living in poor communities often do not have access to sex education or the means to protect themselves.
Rights: Your sexual rights are already included in international human rights documents. Are they being practiced in your community?
How is the issue of sexuality expressed or discussed in your community?
What experiences have you had with sex education?
Do you think it is important for youth to discuss sexuality openly?
Youth and Sexuality is a neglected and often misunderstood topic, this is your chance to bring it out into the open. The Sexuality Issue aims to be a dialogue we hope that all TakingITGlobal members, regardless of background, can participate in. Make your contribution to the discussion! We will be accepting contributions until the end of August!
If you have any questions, contact us @ editorial@takingitglobal.org
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