Aspects of sexuality education in Europe - definitions, differences and developments.
OBJECTIVE
Sexuality education in Europe has been influenced by political, social and ethical movements. This paper considers some of these influences and the implementation of sexuality education in different parts of Europe.


BACKGROUND
The aim of sexuality education is to enable young people to acquire knowledge, attitudes, skills and values to make appropriate choices in their sexual behaviour and thus experience a healthy sex life that is age-appropriate. This should prevent them from acquiring or passing on sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus, from causing or suffering unwanted pregnancies, and from being the perpetrator or victim of violence. It should enhance understanding and respect diversity, thus contributing to a better society. Sexuality education as such has been widely recognised as essential for sexual health, but the content and principles that form the basis of this education have changed over time and differ widely among the countries of Europe.


CONCLUSIONS
Agreeing on common standards of sexuality education across Europe is a challenge for the 21st century.
Loeber
Olga
O
Rutgershuis-Oost, Arnhem, The Netherlands. loejet@wxs.nl
Reuter
Simone
S
Apter
Dan
D
van der Doef
Sanderijn
S
Lazdane
Gunta
G
Pinter
Bojana
B
D005060:Europe; D005260:Female; D049669:History, 16th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049690:History, Ancient; D006806:Human Rights; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012736:Sex Education / Q000266:history / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000266:history; D047568:Unsafe Sex / Q000517:prevention & control