title: Support for instruction about homosexuality in South Carolina public schools.
abstract: Research has demonstrated that recognition of sexual orientation begins in adolescence. However, students who identify as gay or lesbian report that the subject of homosexuality is virtually absent from classroom instruction. In South Carolina public schools, the subject of homosexuality may not be discussed except during instruction about sexually transmitted diseases. In 1997, survey data were obtained from 534 South Carolina registered voters to determine level of support for school-based sexuality education, including support for instruction about homosexuality. Overall, support for sexuality education was strong, however, homosexuality was the least-supported subject in the survey. In addition, registered voters were less sure as to what grade level instruction about homosexuality should begin. Characteristics of voters who supported and opposed instruction about homosexuality in the public schools were examined and compared. These data may be useful in building support for sexuality education programs that address this controversial topic.
authors.affiliation: Dept. of Public Health, Western Kentucky University, 1 Big Red Way, Bowling Green, KY 42101, USA. lisa.lindley@wku.edu
authors.forename: L L
authors.initials: LL
authors.lastname: Lindley
authors.forename: B M
authors.initials: BM
authors.lastname: Reininger
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D006716:Homosexuality; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008875:Middle Aged; D012572:School Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012736:Sex Education / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D013022:South Carolina; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires