School Nurse’s Role To encourage self-esteem and respect To encourage high quality relationships

Risks of Early Sex Research says most regret early sex (H.E.A, 1998) Often causes emotional problems which can effect development and education More likely to have unprotected sex increasing risk of S.T.I.s and pregnancy 40% of 13 and 14 year olds were drunk or stoned when they first had sex (Wight,’00) Pregnancies born to under 16’s associated with more ‘still births’ Approximately half of pregnancies born to under 16’s end in abortion

Body changes at puberty Includes a natural desire to be attracted to opposite sex or ‘sex drive’. Approx 25% of 15 year olds have had sex Law (age of consent) 16 (different in different countries) Young people have also a desire to take risks

Sex Education v. The Media Media portrays early sex as the norm e.g. Sugar magazine Countries with more developed programme of sex ed. Have lower S.T.I. and teen pregnancy rates e.g. The Netherlands Government Sex and Relationship guidance recommends 3 strands 1.Values and Attitudes 2.Skills 3.Knowledge Y9 programme part of comprehensive curriculum

Education v. Parental Support Y8 and lessons per year group Parental Support-Good Communication, high expectations, effective discipline, parental monitoring and good parent/child bonding