Fighting pornography: Pay greater attention to sexuality education

The fact that one in two teenagers here has been exposed to pornography should not come as a surprise, given how easily accessible these materials are ("Half of teens here exposed to pornography: Survey"; last Saturday).

The survey results give greater urgency to the need to reform sexuality education in schools, and for parents to create a conducive environment at home to discuss such materials with impressionable children.

It is unfortunate that both parents and educators tend to shy away from discussing sexuality issues head-on.

In schools, educators tend to discuss this topic in one or two lessons during science or civics and moral education classes.

Educators should consider approaching this topic in a more meaningful manner, by having frank and open discussions with their students.

Without adult supervision, children may turn to their friends or the Internet for information. This could lead to unhealthy addictions or objectification of people.

We should pay greater attention to sexuality education, so our children can grow up in a safe environment.

Desmond Chew Tse Ser

This article was first published on Sep 9, 2014.
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