Children across the United States who identify as LGBTQ+ say the sexual health education curricula they receive is leaving them without essential information to make informed decisions about their sexual health – which could force them to seek potentially dangerous advice elsewhere. The results of a new, national, peer-reviewed survey, show that these young people -; aged 13 to 17 -; believe crucial topics surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity are being omitted from sexual health education programs. Experts who led the study – published today in The Journal of Sex Research , as people around the world celebrate Pride month – say the addition of key items in the curricula could be "life-saving".
" The exclusion of LGBTQ+ students from the curricula may contribute to poor health outcomes in LGBTQ+ youth, with some research beginning to document these experiences and provide recommendations for curricula changes, " explains lead author Steven Hobaica, a clinical psychologist and Research Scientist at The Trevor Project, whose mission is to end suicide among LGBTQ+ young people. "Addressing this negligence is urgent and could be life-saving. "Given the current political climate, with legislation attempting to exclude LGBTQ+ information in schools, we encourage policymakers to continue fighting for LGBTQ+ inclusion in curricula as a means to prevent health problems for a vulnerable group.
" Of more than 800 respondents to the survey, most participants reported a .
