Erotic media is a vast and varied category that includes films, television shows, books, magazines, paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos, comics, music lyrics, poetry, live performances, and more that are designed to stimulate sexual excitement or arousal. This means that erotica can be found in all forms of artistic expression, from highbrow literature to lowbrow pornography. As such, it has long been considered a taboo subject in many cultures and societies around the world.
Today's youth have access to erotica through social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Reddit, Pinterest, Twitch, Discord, and others. Many young people turn to these platforms for guidance on sexual exploration and education, as they may not feel comfortable talking about sex with their peers or parents.
There are also concerns about how this exposure could impact their mental health, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing.
Sexual education programs aim to help young people develop healthy attitudes towards sex and relationships, learn about their bodies, and gain practical skills related to sexual activity. These programs typically cover topics such as anatomy, reproduction, contraception, STIs/STDs, consent, boundaries, pleasure, identity, communication, gender roles, values, relationships, abuse, and more. While most focus on biological functions and behavior, few address eroticism directly.
Recent research suggests that sexuality is intimately connected to our psychology and emotional state, meaning that educating teens about sexuality without considering its emotional aspects can lead to misunderstandings and difficulties.
Some teenagers may believe that any type of sexually explicit material is "good" or desirable, while others may be overwhelmed by feelings of shame or guilt if they view or engage in something deemed "taboo". Sexual education must therefore include a nuanced approach to erotica, acknowledging both the positive and negative effects it can have on youth's physical and emotional health. This means teaching them to critically evaluate media messages and discern between healthy and unhealthy representations of sex and sexuality.
Teachers should encourage students to explore their own sexuality in ways that are safe and consensual, whether with partners or alone. This includes recognizing individual preferences, exploring fantasies, setting boundaries, and communicating needs and desires effectively. By incorporating these lessons into sexual education curricula, we can help young people develop a healthier understanding of themselves and their sexuality. We can also empower them to make informed choices and practice safer behaviors, which will benefit their overall wellbeing as adults.
How does sexual education address erotic media literacy?
Sexual education should address how individuals can recognize different types of erotic media and distinguish between those that are healthy for their development and those that may be harmful. It should also provide information on how to critically analyze these forms of media and make informed decisions about what they consume. Additionally, it is important to teach individuals about the potential consequences of consuming pornography, such as desensitization and unrealistic expectations, and offer resources for seeking help if needed.