In Serbia, the traditional view of sex is rooted in the Christian Orthodox Church's teachings about chastity and marriage.
Today's society has become more open to discussing topics related to sexuality, including premarital sex and contraception. This has led to an increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among young people. As a result, religious leaders are working to adapt their teachings to include modern sexual health knowledge.
The church's perspective on sex is based on its belief that it should only occur within the confines of marriage. The Bible describes sex as a gift from God for married couples, who must avoid anything that could threaten the physical and emotional wellbeing of their relationship. Young adolescents may struggle to understand this framework because they have access to pornography, which contradicts the church's message. Some priests encourage parents to explain these differences to their children, but others believe that parents should be responsible for teaching them themselves.
Orthodox sexual education emphasizes abstinence until marriage, with lessons typically taught by nuns or priests during catechism class. Students learn about biological reproduction, the dangers of STIs, and how to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
Some teachers also suggest alternative methods such as the rhythm method and natural family planning. Adolescents find this approach confusing since it conflicts with secular messages about safe sex practices like condoms and birth control pills. They often seek advice from friends or the internet, where they may encounter misinformation.
Some schools offer special courses on sex education, while others integrate it into other subjects.
A biology teacher might discuss human reproduction or a psychology teacher might explore relationships. These classes aim to equip students with practical information, but they can conflict with religious teachings. Some students see sexuality as a natural part of life, while others view it as sinful. This contradiction creates tension between faith and science in a society that values both traditions.
Serbian Orthodox churches are adapting to modern challenges by incorporating sexual health knowledge into their teachings. But this shift has not been easy, and many young people still feel confused about what is acceptable behavior.
Individuals must balance conflicting messages and make informed decisions based on their own values and beliefs.
How does Orthodox sexual education in Serbia integrate religious teachings with modern sexual health knowledge, and how do adolescents navigate contradictions between these frameworks?
According to a recent study by the National Institute of Public Health, Orthodox sexual education in Serbia integrates religious teachings with modern sexual health knowledge through a holistic approach that considers both physical and spiritual wellbeing. The curriculum emphasizes abstinence until marriage but also covers topics such as contraception, STIs, and gender roles.