Education to prevent child sexual abuse. View of a sex educator

Sexual abuse prevention education is a new undertaking for our schools. But, while at first glance it appears to necessitate a curriculum unique unto itself, such is not really the case. In fact, on close scrutiny it has a great deal in common with curriculum approaches being developed to combat a whole array of dangerous and dysfunctional adolescent and adult behavior: suicide and depression, alcohol and drug abuse, violent and exploitative behavior, eating disorders, premature sexual behavior and teen pregnancy, delinquency and underachievement. While some of the specific content material may vary (alcohol in beer or wine versus effectiveness rates of condoms or spermicides versus nutritional requirements), other important facets have general applicability. Specifically, these relate to the more generalized affective educational approaches (education about affect--feelings, values, attitudes about self and others). The key here is to increase one's understanding of and respect for self and others. And the most crucial issue is self-esteem. Those with poor self-esteem are likely to fall prey to any of a variety of dysfunctional behaviors; while those with a more positive sense of self-worth will behave in a way that is more protective of self and others. It is critical to understand that those who see themselves as lovable and capable human beings (Freud's recognition of the centrality of love and work) are far more likely to be the loving and caring citizens our society needs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)